The Scuttlebutt on SSTI's Annual Conferences

Many of the readers are new to the Digest since last year's conference, so we're getting questions about how SSTI's upcoming 9th annual conference, to be held in Atlanta on Oct. 19-21, differs from other events.

The easiest way to answer that is to let the conference speak for itself — through the comments we received from past participants:

"The most relevant conference I’ve attended in the last five years. Great mix of people — connected to others with similar interest that will give me a resource base."

“Outstanding organization and right on target topically. The value you deliver attracts an audience that is such a great balance of academics and practitioners in TBED.”

"I emerged from this session with eagerness to get back to work on linking research to regional economic development!”

“Great networking, great number of options, breakout sessions, great roundtable interaction. Definitely ‘the’ conference for TBED.”

"This was an excellent conference, it’s clear you have a great deal of expertise and insight to share…thanks and will definitely be back.”

“I found the interactive roundtables interesting and valuable, they have facilitated input/discussion from a broad, diversified base.”

"By far superior to other events, good mix and balance."

Here's what we think you can expect at SSTI’s 9th Annual Conference: in-depth examinations of some of the best state and regional approaches to cultivate a bright economic future; unparalleled networking with the right people within the tech-based economic development community; stimulating dialogue and thought-provoking exchange between great thinkers, old friends and new peers from across the country; and renewed energy and personal resolve to address the challenges of strengthening your state or local economy.

Don't expect crowds of 1,000-plus forgettable people. SSTI's audience and program is quality, not quantity. We'll close registration if necessary — we've done it before. We want you to be able to continue conversations with the people you meet during the first breakout session throughout the conference, not wonder if you'll ever see that person again.

SSTI's Annual Conference is not about 20-second elevator pitches. It's for building meaningful professional relationships within the TBED community.

But don't take everyone else's word for it. Join us Oct. 19-21 in Atlanta to find out for yourself.

Remember, the discounted registration period ends Sept. 20. More information is available at: http://www.ssti.org/Conf05/overview.htm