First Impressions of EO
I’m in Chicago for the Entrepreneurs Organization event. I’m impressed with Chicago. Downtown Chicago is amazingly beautiful. There is a night boat tour organized by EO now and while I’m too tired to attend I’m sure the views will be breath taking. In many ways it reminds me of the Capital (the nice part of DC) and the New York state capital (Albany) yet still very modern and advanced. I don’t think I’ve ever seen another city like Chicago. This is my second time in the city, the first was for my book tour but I only stayed a day.
EO has done an amazing job of organizing events around the city, simply amazing. What is shocking about EO is that while there is a corporate arm that manages most of the operations its still very much driven by volunteers that are passionate about the organization. I wonder how easy it would be to replicate that systematic passion to volunteer. As usual with all big conferences I attend I take note of the demographics. A very high number of women which I find to be impressive, very few Asian Americans and maybe another African American. I thought I saw one. I don’t think thats representitive of the organization as a whole since many of its members don’t have the time to travel to events like this, so take it for what its worth.
Not many internet companies. Lots of traditional businesses, printing, food and beverage, manufacturing. Its really weird to hear someone say they build metal bolts and not finish with “and we sell it on the internet.” But the mix is good because the fundamentals of running a good business are the same regardless of the industry. There will be a new video posted soon. Stay tuned.
August 17th, 2006 at 4:52 am
Chicago - I had the same experience this week. Never paid the city much attention. Am moving a client into a nice apartment in Pilsen so was here for the last 3 days - a refurbished landmark building - with a roof deck that looks right up at the Sears Tower and all the buildings around it. What a remarkable city view! And the weather here is perfect. People are friendly. Great restaurants on Randolph street, in the equivalent to new york’s meat packing district. Had a good Italian meal at Vivo. Very pleasantly surprised. - j