Beat the credit crunch with Small Business 2.0

August 14, 2008

Small Business 2.0, London, October 11th 2008If you want to expand your online selling beyond eBay, need imaginative ideas to survice the credit crunch, or you’re just missing see friends at eBay Universities this year, you’re going to be interested in Small Business 2.0, a one day event being held this October.

I spoke to Dan Wilson, ex-eBay community manager, blogger and chum of TameBay, who’s organising the event. Dan told me, “I’m putting together the speaking programme and thinking very hard about how we ensure that people who attend get the most out of the day and, most importantly, value for money. With a recession almost certainly around the corner, it’s important that people understand that ecommerce is forecast to grow year on year to 2012.” It’s an opportunity not to be missed.

Who should be at SB2.0? Is it just for eBay traders? No, says Dan: “we’ll obviously be taking a look at eBay and what it has to offer, it remains one of the great ecommerce opportunities for every small business in Britain. But a lot of established eBay traders want to diversify. So we’ll be looking at Amazon, Google, establishing your own website and online marketing. I’m also thinking about small businesses that have a website, selling goods or services, and who want a bit more out of the web. So anyone interested in improving their website, advertising on search engines or plugging into social networks will be catered for.” And of course, those who don’t have any web presence at all can find out just where they need to start.

Even those famously cynical about the value of eBay events are being provided for. Dan says, “if Northumbrian wants a free ticket, he can have one on me, and I’ll even buy him a pint of Deuchars afterwards. Out of my own pocket.” How could North resist? ;-) The rest of us will naturally be popping over the road for a drinkie or three afterwards too.

The event’s being sponsored by Royal Mail, who will be showcasing their latest products designed specifically for small businesses operating online, and by BT Tradespace, perhaps best described as “like Facebook only with business, not zombies” - it’s well worth checking out if you’re not already on there. PayPal, ChannelAdvisor, Frooition and others will be there: new exhibitors will be announced over the next few weeks, so keep an eye on the website.

Small Business 2.0 will being held at the New Connaught Rooms near Covent Garden in London on Saturday 11th October, and you can book your ticket through www.smallbusiness20.co.uk.

Written by Sue Bailey · Filed Under Events, Featured | 12 Comments