The FOSS4G North America is scheduled for May 2-5. I quite enjoyed last years conference which featured a really diverse line up.
If you have a story of using GeoServer, or any open source software, please consider responding to the call for proposal.
One nice thing, that I have not seen done at other conferences, is an “early bird” submission deadline on Jan 22nd. If you get your proposal in by that time you can get feedback from the selection committee which is very helpful.
The other advice is to check the categories listed in the call for proposals, and submit proposals that line up with what the conference is about. It is a technical crowd, which is nice and friendly and it is a lot easier to speak to then other conferences I have been to.
If you are interested in attending but find conferences expensive - presenters do receive a conference pass. You can also apply for a scholarships if you would not otherwise be able to attend due to conference expense.
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Jody Garnett