Have everyone get up and get a business card from someone in the audience that they haven't previously met. Explain the difference between networking and forming a strategic alliance (aka business network).

achieve advantages of scale, scope and speed

develop new business opportunities through new products and services

diversify

be more competitive

increase market penetration

increase stock

reduce costs, increase profits

Increased profits can be substantial. Companies participating in alliances report that at much as 18 percent of their profits. That number is projected to climb to 35 percent by 2004. The 25 companies most active in alliances achieved a 17.2 percent return on equity - 40 percent more than the average of the Fortune 500.

Indentify potential alliance partners

Develop a business plan and parameters for all parties

Design a contract and have reviewed by each party's legal counsel

Balloon artists

Beverage and ice suppliers

Caterers

Costumers

Entertainers or talent agencies

Event Designers

Event/wedding/meeting planners

Florists

Games

Lighting and Special Effects Companies

Multi-media and/or audio-visual companies

Party goods

Photographers

Printers and Invitations

Rental companies

Security

Signs

Transportation (buses, limos, golf carts, autos, etc.)

Venues

Videographers

Area companies

Association Members

Chamber of Commerce

Major corporations

Referrals

Vendors (working with suppliers)

Advertising

Affiliate programs

Celebrity events

Cross promotions

Discount programs/coupon books

Mass mailings

Product purchases

Special events (sidewalk sales, holiday or charitable events, community projects, etc.)

Stock/product exchange

Store signage

Trade/consumer shows (special event industry, bridal, family, womens, etc.)

Web site link exchange

 

Association of Strategic Alliance Professionals, Inc. http://www.strategic-alliances.org

Smart Alliances - http://www.smartalliances.com