Awesome, thanks alot for your feedback. A place to find mastermind groups is essentially what we're working to build. We just don't use the phrase because most people have never heard of it.
Yes, a way for startups to learn from each other using peer groups. We're looking into also adding expert advice-givers for those who need it as a revenue model.
Not quite. BNI is more for referrals and networking. The goal is NOT to network, but to form a closer, more intimate group where you can discuss things at a deeper level.
So a better analogy would be - rather than a networking event where everyone exchanges business cards, it's more like a small monthly breakfast meetup where small biz owners discuss how they're growing their business, cutting cost, tackling employee challenges, or whatever else.
The goal is to match non-competing businesses together in small groups. Not to just follow each others progress but to act as a sounding board/mentor to each as well to get over the whole "lonely at the top" feeling frequent among entrepreneurs.
Interesting, thanks for you input. The sharing confidential things is what I'm worried about too. Are the non-disclosures usually enough to overcome most fears? Also, are the people you see participating paying fees to participate?
Do you know if these advisors advise multiple other startups or entrepreneurs? When you meet with them individually, is it usually something fresh from each of them or do they repeat the the same things over?
You should check out a program called AIESEC, it's an international student exchange program for jobs. I did it right after graduation and worked for a startup real estate company in India for a year, but they have openings in everything from development jobs to consulting all around the world. If you got any questions about it you can shoot me and email and I'll be happy to discuss.
Great points...I especially like "I'm sure most business managers/owners could name 3 or 4 things they wish they could make better. However starting that conversation with them is difficult."
Yes, we had a launch party and predicted a flood of people banging on our door to use our product. For some reason it didn't quite go that way. We launched on 1/11/11 to add a coolness factor to it but to no avail. Here are two great links discussing it by Jason Baptise and the Balsamiq guys...guess you're a little past this phase though: