A New Proposal to Enhance WordCamp Budget Guidelines for Increased Attendee Engagement
WordCamps have always been a hub for WordPress enthusiasts and professionals to come together, learn, and network. However, there has been a decline in the number of new attendees in recent times, despite an increase in the number of events. In an effort to address this issue, Rocio Valdivia, the Automattic-sponsored Global Community Team Programs Manager, has proposed an exciting change to WordCamp budget guidelines.
The proposal suggests allocating a portion of the WordCamp budget solely for marketing and advertising purposes. The aim is to attract more newcomers to WordPress events and ensure that over 50% of participants are first-time attendees. Valdivia believes that well-planned event design, messaging, and marketing strategies are key to achieving this goal.
Previously, advertising expenses were rarely included in WordCamp budgets. However, with this new proposal, event organizers can request a portion of the budget for marketing and advertising, subject to the approval of a Program Manager during the budget review. The funds, ranging from $50 to $400, depending on various factors, will be funded by the Global Sponsorship grant and should be used strategically to maximize the event’s reach and impact.
Valdivia has also provided some suggestions on how event organizers can effectively utilize the advertising funds. These include listing events on online calendars, tech forums, newsletters, and publications. Collaborating with influencers and local businesses, distributing posters, flyers, and banners in strategic locations, running social media ads, and utilizing traditional media to promote the events are also recommended strategies.
The significance of this proposal becomes evident when considering the declining number of new attendees despite the increase in events. Julia Golomb, an Automattic-sponsored Community Engagement Specialist, emphasizes the importance of attracting and welcoming first-time attendees. She highlights that they bring fresh perspectives, new energy, and have the potential for long-term growth of the WordPress community and user base.
The proposal has generated a buzz within the WordPress community, with many members offering their responses and suggestions. Taco Verdonschot, the community manager at Yoast, suggests creating a subteam of PPC experts in the marketing/PR team to run campaigns. He also draws attention to the SEO issues of websites on wordcamp.org, suggesting that resources be allocated for optimizing these sites for online marketing.
Joost de Valk, founder of the Yoast SEO plugin, echoes Taco’s sentiments by emphasizing the importance of installing an SEO plugin on the WordCamp websites to improve their visibility.
Community members have until August 19, 2024, to provide their feedback on the proposal. Their input will help shape the final decision on implementing this budget guideline change.
This proposal comes shortly after the Community Team updated the WordPress Events venue policy to allow venues with religious affiliations. The new policy advises organizers to avoid venues with political affiliations, religious iconography, religious worship, or any form of proselytizing.
Interestingly, WordCamp Netherlands had to be rescheduled from September to November 2024 due to low ticket sales. The hope is that these budget guideline changes and the updated venue policy will contribute to the success of future WordCamps.
WordCamps are known for their informative sessions, inspiring talks, and networking opportunities. With the proposed changes to budget guidelines, we can expect even more engaging and exciting events that will attract a diverse range of attendees. The WordPress community eagerly awaits the final decision on this proposal and looks forward to witnessing the positive impact it will have on WordCamps worldwide.
