Q: What's your reason for existence?

A: Innovators are different. Innovators sense things that most others simply don't. This is where insight, invention, and art come from. But communicating the insights that aren't readily apparent to “normal” people can often result in friction. It’s called “breaking the mold” for a reason.

The challenge to "pass the baton" of insight on to others falls squarely on the shoulders of the innovator. So SVII hosts highly interactive events to address this communication challenge.

Q: What are your events like?

A: There's a pervasive event format out there, even right here in Silicon Valley, called the "Sage on the Stage". It implies that the Sage who knows more than everyone else in the room, combined. It's completely inappropriate for the purpose of SVII. It stifles collaboration, assertiveness and self expression.

We prefer "The Guide on the Side" format. Guides consciously create opportunities for all to participate in collaborative inquiry of the subject matter at hand. The degree to an event is a success is measured by the heat the fire in people's bellies after they go home at the end of the night.

Intrinsic motivation is the ultimate fuel of innovation.