Being twenty somethings, how do you go about getting people to value your expertise?

thanks a ton

I have a startup non profit that I’ve just gotten off the ground. The goal of the non profit is to provide scholarship opportunities to students from rural areas who are pursuing a career in computer technology, with some more broad long term goals.

Do you have any recommendations on finding funding sources for this? We are targeting IT companies and are writing grants, but I’d love to hear any advice you have on finding funding for non-profits.

Best,

Chris Sanders

My Q:
What are the considerations for starting an online business that sells an information product (like Tim Ferriss reccomends) as opposed to providing free information on a blog before attempting to sell knowledge and know-how?

Thanks!
Koey Ziqi

What system or method do you use to manage your network and contacts? I’m using a spreadsheet and color coding but wanted to find a more efficient method for tracking each person’s interests. I like sending interesting articles with personal messages but it’s impossible for me to keep track of who’s who.

I’d like to start my own music full-service booking agency. How do I approach an artist who has clearly stated he wants to expand his audience but needs help? I don’t have experience but have a couple of contacts to help him get started.

I’d like to bring my friends and people in the community over for dinner. The last “party,” I organized fizzled out after an hour. What would you suggest to keep the momentum? Board games? Selective guest list? I’d like dinner to be about exploring different cultural foods and a discussion like the Junto Ben shared on his blog about friends.

My last question: Your blog has advocated taking action rather than doing. I want to start a regular food serving in my neighborhood park. I would leave food next to their sleeping bags or just offer what I have. Would you recommend I continue doing this until I’ve built a “trust,” with these people or try something bigger?