Our new PC business is just taking off. My partner and I spent our day yesterday at Liberty University’s community fair: where local businesses got a chance to welcome new students, give away free stuff, and hopefully get some business.

A couple things happened: 1)  We were able to claim our position among other local businesses, and 2) we began the branding process of telling the students that we should be their preferred PC repair shop.

There were all kinds of businesses there – hotels, pizza places, bookstores, coffee shops, the YMCA … but the one that really stuck out to me was a church college group. They brought at least 5 people from their group and were always surrounded by students. 

My question is… what is the value of representing your nonprofit or church in a community event like this one? 

I suppose it can be answered with more questions: what does the nonprofit or church do? Who do they serve? Are they already branded in the community? Do they not serve the local community at all… and if so… would is still benefit them to make an appearance? 

What about trade shows? Conferences? 

One of my mentors from the earlier days (from Grant Station) once told me not to waste my time at conferences. She had a valid point considering the return on investment. But what is the branding value if you have a representative who always attends these events? 

I would like some feedback on this issue.