Elite Meet Veterans Network
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John Allen describes building Elite Meet, a networking organization that connected military veterans with business opportunities through events and social media storytelling.
Key Points:
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Event-Based Networking Model:
- Organized networking events in New York connecting veterans with business people
- Started as a one-time event called "Elite Meet" that evolved into an ongoing operation
- Veterans would give talks about their capabilities while businesses shared opportunities
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Social Media Strategy:
- Used LinkedIn to build support and awareness
- Shared veteran stories in text format with attached pictures
- Connected stories to specific industries and job opportunities
- Successfully raised $500,000 through micro-donations from these posts
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Business Structure:
- Operated as a charity
- Primary revenue through event organization
- CEO role focused on cultivating relationships and organizing events
- Business model was heavily dependent on in-person events
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Challenge & End:
- Business was primarily event-based
- COVID-19 pandemic made it impossible to continue operations as designed
- Had to pivot away from the model when events became impossible
The business leveraged the unique value proposition of connecting highly skilled veterans with businesses looking for talent, while using social media storytelling to build support and awareness for the mission.