Sometimes the tech industry can seem a little isolated from the larger business community, but that doesn't have to be the case forever. As the tech scene in the D.C. area grows, traditional business groups are eager to connect with some of the most successful tech companies around, even if they aren't in the same town. That's why the Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center is playing host to the Alexandria, Dulles Regional and Greater Washington DC Chambers of Commerce for the second annual Expand Your Circle of Influence event on April 12.
"It's all about connecting the right people," said Reagan Building sales manager Denise Borland in an interview with DC Inno. "The tech push is happening across the whole region. More than three-quarters of the fastest growing companies are tech or connected."
Networking in general is not exactly a new idea in D.C., but the kind of networking that many millennials take for granted is relatively new. Combining so many different kinds of businesses and industries, not to mention potential rivals all in one space is still somewhat novel. The companies hoping to stretch in that direction though have a lot of opportunity at the event.
"The event brings together executives, C-level business leaders and the Chambers to the Reagan building, which is really a regional hub," said Reagan Building group sales manager Olivia Russell. "Larger firms can help smaller firms and all the areas can grow together."
The event, which is sponsored by some major business brands including Grant Thorton, Saul Ewing LLP and InfoRelay, is mostly made up of those whom the Chambers invite to attend. Last year there were about 300 people in attendance, a number that Borland and Russell said they expect to be significantly higher this year.
"It was the most successful event the building ever had last year. Afterward, people were calling and asking how they could attend next time." Borland said. "And it will be double the size this year."
"The Reagan Building is a great, safe place for this too," Russell added. "It really gives added value to the Chamber members."
Going forward, there's a good chance that other area Chambers will want to get on board with the event, the organizers said, and there's plenty of incentive since several other cities like Bethesda, Arlington, Rockville and others can boast significant numbers of tech companies that are growing at a rapid clip
"Chambers of Commerce are all about relationships," Borland said. "We love facilitating them.
