Recommendations for Networking and Educations Groups in Chicago

[Tushar Shah]

Hello BP!!

I am new to this and am just getting started learning and gathering information. I wanted to drop a note and check if there are recommendation for good networking REI groups to join in Chicago - downtown?

I am looking to meet like minded people to network and exchange ideas/thoughts.

Thanks!!

[Brie Schmidt]

We started out doing our events near Armitage/90 and while I knew a restaurant owner over there who gave me free space, people complained about parking and access.  It wasn't until our group moved to Harlem/90 that we got to 50-75 members every month.  It was easier for city and suburban people and the parking was easy.  

I can tell you over the years I have probably talked to 40-50 spaces between the loop and O'Hare and 75% of them charge a room fee or have a food and beverage minimum of over $1000 and I am not willing to pa that out of my pocket for a event I don't charge for.