We have identified space in Vancouver to hold the "Bits and Bites" event, and
we are now seeking sponsors for tables at the event. If your organization is
interested in face-to-face time with hundreds of IETF participants, please
contact Drew Dvorshak <dvorshak(_at_)isoc(_dot_)org> to sponsor a table.
Please act promptly as we need to make some commitments in the first few days
of June.
The expectation is that exhibitors will showcase products and services. That
is, exhibitor tables will be staffed by product vendors (hardware and software)
and service providers (registries, registrars, ISPs, ESPs, etc.) and others
interested in face-to-face time with IETF participants. While attendance is
optional, many IETF participants are likely to show up to consume the free
beer, wine, soft drinks, and hors d'oeuvres that will be served in the same
room.
Each exhibitor table will include a single power strip and access to the IETF
wireless network. Additional power or wired network connections may require an
additional fee from the table sponsor.
Thanks,
Russ
On Apr 16, 2012, at 11:40 AM, IETF Chair wrote:
We sent a query to the community on March 16, 2012. There was a discussion
on the IETF mailing list. We also presented the topic in the IETF chair and
IAOC chair presentations at administrative plenary at IETF 83, and there was
an active discussion at the open mic that followed.
Our conclusion is there is a consensus to test the event for the next two
IETF meetings (Vancouver and Atlanta). We believe this can be done in a
manner that will not turn the meeting into a trade show, and we believe that
it will create an opportunity for IETFers to network with each other, as well
as talking to vendors and service providers.
On behalf of the IESG and the IAOC,
Russ Housley
Bob Hinden