What do you get when you invite members of three area chambers of commerce to something called a “Blitz Networking” event and equate it to ‘speed dating’? Approximately 50 eager business people with business cards and marketing collateral pieces in hand ready to meet and greet others in hopes of growing their business network.

The Brimfield, Tallmadge and Kent Area Chambers of Commerce held its first-ever networking breakfast at the Tallmadge Community Center. All three organizations were well represented, and the feedback from participants was extremely positive.

“I’m thrilled with the turnout, and even more so the positive comments shared at the conclusion of the event,” said Genel Nichols, co-owner of KentRidge at Golden Pond, and Tallmadge Chamber of Commerce trustee. “We gave it a shot bringing the three chambers together for such an event, and I can honestly say from the response, we’ll definitely do it again in the future.”

Participants were assigned numbers based on an intricate matrix set up by Brad Lubinger, publisher of Town Planner, and asked to present a 60-second introduction ‘elevator speech’ for their business. Over the course of the event, each person had the opportunity to meet everyone else in attendance.

New to the area and his position with KSU Athletics, Dennis Watson agreed that the opportunity was invaluable to him. “Being that I’m new, every person I met was a new contact and an opportunity for future ticket sales for KSU athletic events.”

Stay tuned for the next episode of speed dating…Chamber of Commerce style!