Events as Lead Generation Tools

A big focus of mine has been to sell sponsorship to wine tasting/networking events in order to bring in the cash flow, while we roll out our DIY services. We have three wine tasting networking events coming up. May 24th, May 25th (site soon) and June 7th.

I think what we've evolved this event into - has lots of potential as a business in itself.  It is a successful event all around. We've tweaked the formula so that it is beneficial and profitable for everyone: the wine distributor, the venue, the sponsors and the hosts (me right now). And people keep coming out to them, so it works for the attendees too.
I am looking to expand this event to other cities like 8minutedating licenses their brand/processes to local event planners.

The key to this working anywhere is getting sponsors for the event. The value proposition to the sponsors are the following:

1. Entertain clients on the cheap.
2. Build and nurture your referral network. We facilitate co-marketing, cross promotion and networking amongst the sponsors.
3. Advertising your business online and at the event.
4. Generating leads online and at the event.

I could go on for awhile about how we do all of this. But, the thing I am most proud of (as an online marketer) is how we generate leads online for our sponsors. The first time we tried this, we generated 15 leads for our sponsors.  People can attend for free if they fill out the lead generation survey. Here's a screenshot.

We can design these surveys on the fly through a browser through our new event website builder.

So, long story short. This wouldn't be a pc4media post if I wasn't soliciting for something... I am looking for local hosts that are interested in getting involved in this. If you know anyone, please send em this way. The ideal person has experience selling advertising/sponsorship, is good with (and in front of) people and has dealt with local venues before. Based on what we've done with this event,  I can see someone with the right skills and a bit of hustle turn this opportunity into a very healthy income in a pretty short amount of time.

Oh and we call the events Red, White and Networking... (but we aren't stuck on that.)

Go see the site in action, if you'd like:

I am also seeking companies/individuals that are interested in developing event concepts through our system using WhizSpark tools and our network of event planners. Think beercasting or 52 card pick up events.