CodeCamps and Sponsorships
In some circles using the word sponsorship in the same sentence as CodeCamp can get you a firm dressing down. People talk of manefestos and the like and while I can understand the desire to keep CodeCamp from turning into a day of marketing, I am also a realist and realize the CodeCamps need donations to operate. These donations take many forms from facilities, to swag, to let’s face it cold hard cash. Additionally it is the responsibility of those running these events to realize that they need the resources of others, and if they wish to receive them year after year they need to show value to the sponsors. We have done this by putting logos on the website and in the program and even allowed sponsors to set up a table to talk to attendees at the event. But this must be balanced with the idea that we are always looking to provide the attendee with value. Many attendees enjoy the ability to talk to a recruiter, training provider or component vendor at these events. Let’s face it not everyone can shell out the big bucks to attend TechEd or VS Live. So as long as CodeCamps cost money to operate, and as long as companies are providing value to the attendees, I will be having sponsors at any event I organize.