We foster a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, where members from diverse backgrounds and industries come together to exchange knowledge and ideas.
Inclusivity
Our approach enriches our network with a broad spectrum of expertise, creating a dynamic environment that encourages innovation and problem-solving.
Connections
Our networking group isn't just about making connections; it's about forging meaningful, lasting bonds that empower our members to thrive in their respective fields.
Weekly Meetings
Meetings are held at Plates each Wednesday morning. Open networking will begin at 07:00 with breakfast to be available by 07:30. The serving time for breakfast will be adjusted as the group grows to facilitate the ending of meetings by 08:00 whenever possible
- 0700 to 08:00 Open networking
- 07:00 Breakfast and Meeting starts
- Leadership reports monthly only
- Business Promotional Minute: Every member will get one minute to present an aspect of their business to the group. Guest will present to the group at the end of the process. Members bringing a guest or visitor will be expected to introduce their guest to the group
- Weekly Speaker presentation: 10 minutes
- Contributions (referrals, meetings, closed business, guest/visitors)
- Announcements
- Adjournment
Frequently asked questions
What is the attendance requirement for members?
A representative from your company should be present at every meeting. Attendance is required to present your promotional moment to the group and take advantage of the networking opportunities.
Are there any specific requirements for businesses represented in Momentum Networking?
Yes, businesses represented in Momentum Networking must carry a valid business license in either Courtenay, Comox, or Cumberland.
What are the contributions expected from members?
Members are expected to actively help other members grow their businesses by:
- Providing valid referrals of clients to other members.
- Bringing in guests or visitors to the meetings.
- Participating in coffee meetings to better understand and help fellow members’ businesses.
- Closing business resulting from valid referrals given to their business through the network.
What is a coffee meeting in Momentum Networking?
A coffee meeting is an informative session about another member’s business, aimed at fostering a better understanding and promoting collaboration within the network.
What is closed business in Momentum Networking?
Closed business refers to the value of business that a member has received from valid referrals given to their business through the network, which is the ultimate goal of networking.
What is the difference between a guest and a visitor in Momentum Networking?
- A visitor is a potential member actively engaged in business in the Comox Valley and may attend up to 2 meetings without commitment.
- A guest is someone introduced by a member and can attend one meeting, provided it doesn’t duplicate an existing seat.
Momentum History
Momentum Networking embarked on its journey in November 2011, originally as a BNI faction named “BNI Momentum”. Under the leadership of Dave Robertson, its founding organizer and inaugural president, the group’s initial meetings were held at the Old House restaurant.
A year later, the venue shifted to the Kingfisher restaurant. Daryl Robbins then took up the mantle as the group’s second president, and meetings continued at this location until approximately 2015-2016. A division in the group occurred around the time I took a year-long sabbatical, the details of which are best shared by those present.
By late 2016, a segment of members, totaling around 10-11 individuals, distanced themselves from BNI’s corporate framework. They congregated at Crown Isle, maintaining some of BNI’s core values and principles. Chris Sutton and Ansley McClean steered the group during this transitional phase. By March 2017, leadership transitioned from Sayre Neufeld as president and Chris Peake as Vice President, followed by Jake Christoph with Martin EschBaumer as Vice President, and subsequently Aaron Bellmore with Daryl Robbins as his deputy. The group’s meetings remained at Crown Isle until the Covid pandemic halted our activities in 2020. By then, the group had expanded to approximately 35 members, and thanks to Aaron and Daryl’s tracking system, we witnessed impressive results, including over a million dollars in referrals.
Malinda Maccozzi assumed the presidency during the pandemic, with Mackenzie Gartside as Vice President. Despite the challenges of the time, they innovatively spearheaded Zoom calls, parking lot tailgate meetings, and sporadic face-to-face gatherings, ensuring the spirit of networking remained intact. Following Malinda’s tenure, John Bonner navigated another tumultuous year as president, restoring the breakfast meetings tradition at a new venue, Plates. His resilience rejuvenated the networking spirit, attracting both old members and introducing new entrepreneurs to the fold. Currently, Paul Moniquin leads as president, supported by Vice President Greg Chadwick, and the group’s meetings brim with dynamic networking energy.