Idea Camp Returns To FDL

IdeaCamp, a Fond du Lac BarCamp, returns to the community as a free event for all on Saturday, October 21, 2017. The idea behind BarCamp is that it embraces the thought of a community educating each other through an international network of user-generated conferences. They are open, participatory workshop-events, the content of which is provided by participants.


IdeaCamp is the rebrand of Fond du Lac’s BarCamp hosted by the Young Professionals of Fond du Lac. The initiative began with a group of entrepreneurial spirits that started BarCamp Fond du Lac about 4 years ago and has continued ever since.

The timeline of the day is completely free-flowing. Come at 8:00 a.m. to meet attendees and learn what topics they are interested in talking or hearing about. After an opening ceremony, a board full of post-it notes and time slots will be available and attendees who wish to speak on any topic will indicate so on the board. Topics in the past have included: Time Travel, Agile Development, Beekeeping, and 3D Printing.

Presentations can be on anything and everything – from comics to community activism, workshops on drawing to learning how to fundraise for an event. The possibilities are truly endless. “I presented on an idea I had about how the community could encourage a culture of philanthropy,” stated Greg Giles, CEO and Executive Director, Fond du Lac Family YMCA. “During my session, the feedback I received was very valuable as it encouraged me to take my idea to the next level. Today this idea has turned into a program called Fondy 100 gives which brings 100 people together every three months with the intention of supporting one local project that will strengthen the community.”

Speaking is optional but encouraged – everyone has something to share. Attendees are also able to come and go to different sessions as they please.

IdeaCamp will be held at Moraine Park Technical College, 235 N. National Avenue in Fond du Lac, on Saturday, October 21, 2017 starting with registration and breakfast at 8:00 a.m. Opening remarks will begin the day at 8:30 a.m. and the event will conclude at 3:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided and the event is free for all members of the community. To register, visit ypfdl.org.