Technology Marketplace Grows in Pleasanton

By Jay Hipps, Hacienda Network Staff Writer

Third Annual Show Should be Chamber's Biggest Ever

The City of Pleasanton has declared the week of October 18 to be "Technology Week," and the cornerstone of that week is the 1999 Pleasanton Technology Marketplace, to be held October 19 from noon to 7:00 pm at the Alameda County Fairgrounds Satellite Wagering Facility. Admission is free.

The event will feature an interactive trade fair as well as two seminar tracks, one geared towards corporate interests and a second for small business issues. A variety of fun games and contests are planned as well, including a fashion show in which contestants will model the finest in promotional logo clothing.

"We're looking at this as a way to showcase the high tech business here in the Tri-Valley area," says Dave Bouchard, executive director of the Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce. "Our event is meant to demonstrate that Pleasanton and the Tri-Valley area are really the place to come if you want to either work at or start up a technology-based business.

Companies that will participate in this year's event include Hacienda businesses AT&T, Computer Networks Inc., GST Telecommunications, PeopleSoft, Remedy Corporation, Skillset Software, and Sprint PCS.

VIP Preview and Luncheon

One of the main features of the event will be a VIP Preview and luncheon featuring noted economist and futurist Tappan Munroe, Ph.D. Former chief economist for Pacific Gas & Electric, Dr. Munroe is a widely published author and currently a columnist for the Contra Costa Times. He is also a nationally known speaker on topics such as regional economic development and international competitiveness.

CEO Roundtable

The afternoon kicks off with a CEO Roundtable, featuring executives, including SkillSet's Dan White, who will be discussing the benefits of locating their businesses in Pleasanton.

A second panel discussion will follow, moderated by Fred LaCosse, host of TV's "Silicon Valley Business," on the topic of e-business.

Two Seminar Tracks

While the trade fair continues, the corporate and small/medium business seminars will begin. Corporate topics include "Workforce Readiness," "Telecommuting Challenges," and "E-Business and E-Commerce."

The small/medium business track includes "Finding Funding," "Application Service Providers/RentalWare," and concurrent panel discussions on business startups/incubators, marketing and sales, and Internet marketing.

Additional Information

Companies interested in exhibiting or serving as sponsors can get additional information by calling Mary Loura at the Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce, (925) 846-5858. For more information on attending, access www.pleasanton.org.

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