WHY WOULD A BRICK AND MORTAR BUSINESS SPONSOR A “TWESTIVAL”?
The platinum sponsor for Chicago’s Twestival is OfficePort, a great space that is bringing the “Coworking” movement to Chicago.
It’s great to see a brick and mortar business not only embrace social media but also sponsor community and social media causes; we wanted to let you know more about why they support Twestival.
We interviewed Shaul Jolles, co-founder of OfficePort.
Why Are You Embracing Social Media?
“Social media is all about collaboration; the instant exchange of information and support from the community is amazing.
That type of collaboration is what OfficePort has done and is doing successfully offline; our “Coworking” space fosters community interaction and networking—not just “another day at the office”(here’s the Chicago Tribune’s write up). Both online and offline it’s great to connect with people at the exact moment you need the help instead of having to wait a week to “set up a coffee meeting”. The entrepreneur and business communities can thrive when they’re provided this type of environment.
We love Twitter (and Facebook for that matter) because you can update your status with a question and get immediate answers and solutions-– it’s quick, effective collaboration. Instead of waiting for voice mails to be returned you can read your Tweets; at OfficePort you can walk to another port and ask a fellow entrepreneur questions.
Social media is a natural extension of coworking and people involved in social media inherently “get” the concept.”
Why did you come to Chicago?
“We’ve seen the concept of coworking work elsewhere and want to create that success in Chicago also. The main thing we want to do: Build organic entrepreneurship with real collaboration (not made up bureaucratic entrepreneurship).
From observation and starting my (Shaul) own business venture in Chicago we experienced a lot of red tape when it came to getting a space, licenses, setting up internet and phone services. OfficePort is sensitive to these hurdles and want to cut through the “usual” problems Chicago businesses can face and make life easier for them.
OfficePort gives the small businesses the same tools as the big guys and gets people into business with the least red tape as economically as possible. We also get people working the same day and collaborating the same day.”
Why did OfficePort sponsor Twestival?
“In addition to embracing social media we love the cause; http://www.OptINnow.org – it’s great that they are helping entrepreneurs that are battling poverty and providing them the opportunity to achieve their dreams.”
CHICAGO’S TWESTIVAL:
When: Thursday, September 10th,5:30-8:00pm
Where: Catalyst Ranch, 656 W Randolph, Chicago, IL
REGISTER & MORE INFORMATION HERE!
CONNECTING!
People are Talking…