The World Service Board has received several inquiries about the increased fee and we want to apologize for not providing the background information. Following are responses to the questions you have posed to us. 

Why is the 2022 registration fee so much higher than 2021?

The costs to run the 2022 FA convention include retaining the services of a professional production company, as well as legal, parliamentarian, and administration fees estimated to be approximately $40,000. Here’s the budget breakdown: $19k production company, $16k parliamentarian/legal/administrative fees, and $5k for non-refundable hotel deposit (since we decided, as a fellowship, to meet virtually this year). We have budgeted for 400-425 attendees to cover our costs. 

BACKGROUND:

The 2021 virtual Business Convention was planned and facilitated with volunteers and the registration fee was set at $20. To produce a virtual event of this magnitude required dozens of fellows to put in innumerable hours and resulted in unanticipated difficulties. Based on that experience, the Board felt having an professional provider was the right solution to ensure the best possible experience for the Convention Committee and the participants. 

Why did the Convention Committee choose this particular vendor? 

• They have worked with FA before recording the business convention and the qualification CDs 
• They always provided quality results
• They offered a lower bid than other vendors we explored engaging
• They have the experience and talent to produce a high quality business convention since they are a production company, not just a tech company  

What are the benefits of having this outside vendor? 

The Convention Committee believes this outside vendor will be able to address/prevent several issues that were a challenge at the 2021 convention as well as implement elements that will make for a more seamless program. Among other things, this production company will:

• Provide a professional platform to avoid technical difficulties 
• Deliver a clear, simple, coordinated process for voting
• Take on the role of an independent party who tallies and verifies the votes swiftly, smoothly, and accurately 
• Pre-record committee reports to ensure a smooth flow of events (though committee heads will be available live for questions)
• Leverage their years of hosting experience to prevent potential Zoom bombings

What if I can’t afford the registration fee?

Any voting member for whom the cost is prohibitive can and should apply for financial aid from their intergroup. EAI has extended its financial aid deadline to April 30 and WAI’s financial aid application is open until April 15.