At Cross Pollinate, we believe in the power of connection, collaboration, and shared learning. Our community events bring together like-minded individuals from across the globe for intimate gatherings filled with meaningful conversations, deep connections, and unforgettable experiences.
Cross Pollinate coordinates intimate peer group events, virtually and in person both domestically and internationally. The events are intended to be conversations with a small group of people covering a broad ranges of topics of shared interest. These are highly-curated, invitation-only events and have no speakers or sponsors, with attendees responsible for their portion of the cost. See below for general descriptions of regional and international events, as well as hosted events and retreats.
Topical Explorations
Cross Pollinate Community members are encouraged to suggest topics of interest for both hosted and virtual conversations. Topical gatherings are curated to maximize peer group learning across families through the sharing of experiences and questions. Member-sourced topics we have discussed include: building a resilient family office, creating a family bank to encourage entrepreneurship, mentoring in the family office among other.
Regional Gatherings
Since 2013, members of the Cross Pollinate Community have gathered in various cities for lunches, dinners, hikes, theater shows, and other activities. Attendance has been limited to 24 people (including partners and children), but is often much smaller. We have found the smaller the gatherings, the more interesting and insightful the conversations become.
Hosted Experiences
In addition to meals and retreats, Cross Pollinate Community members have hosted tours of their businesses and shared their properties for single or multi-day events. Whether it is discussing investments, family dynamics, or philanthropic endeavors, the intention is to learn by sharing your experience and listening to others.
Retreats
Since 2015, a small group of the Cross Pollinate Community has gathered each summer in Pacific Northwest for wine tasting, deep conversations, long walks and wonderful meals. Spouses and kids are encouraged to join this informal retreat, as friendships are made and deepened. Activities and entertainment vary each year based on attendees, but you may be able to enjoy an award winning performer or an aspiring broadway star around the campfire.
International Experience
Since 2023, Members of the Cross Pollinate Community have traveled together internationally to learn from other cultures, people, and perspectives. These trips are tailored to the attendees and focus on areas of shared interest with people who have deep local knowledge and connections.
These international events will be equal part education and enjoyment with tours of business, natural wonders, and time with private investors. Tours are carefully constructed both in what we see and who attends. The intention is to create an unforgettable experience with friends. Trips may be a great opportunity for multi-generational families to participate together while ensuring each generation has peers.
The multi-week tour of Zimbabwe for two generations from multiple families included time with high ranking government officials, tours of family owned businesses and safaris in multiple national parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Code of Conduct for Cross Pollinate Events?
Cross Pollinate Events are confidential gatherings of peers where we observe the Chatham House Rule (included below). It is acknowledged that participants may have conflicts of interest, where they may receive direct or indirect economic or social benefit from interactions with Cross Pollinate attendees. We ask attendees both to disclose potential conflicts of interest and to act in the best interest of the group.
“When a meeting, or part thereof, is held under the Chatham House Rule, participants are free to use the information received, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker(s), nor that of any other participant, may be revealed.”
Who can participate in Cross Pollinate Community events?
Cross Pollinate Community events are open to staff and principals of family enterprises, single family offices and ultra-high net worth individuals who share the communities values of collaboration, confidentiality and learning.
We ask that attendees be significant stakeholders in the family enterprise with the ability to effect change. Participation in events is split between family enterprise staff and principals depending on the topic. The vast majority of Cross Pollinate Community participants are multi-generation minded. If you are wondering if you should attend, give us a call.
How can I participate in Cross Pollinate Community events?
Contact us, or someone you know who has attended and express your interest.
Are there membership fees to join the Cross Pollinate Community?
There are no membership fees.
All attendees are expected to pay their share of communal expenses, including the costs attributed to the organizer.
How can I stay updated on upcoming Cross Pollinate Community events?
See the Upcoming Events section at the top of this page, or contact us.
Are family members welcome at Cross Pollinate Community events?
Yes! Cross Pollinate recognizes the value that family members (spouses, parents, children, in-laws, etc.) contribute to the culture and capital of each family.
How does Cross Pollinate generate revenue?
Cross Pollinate Community Events are paid for by attendees with the organizers meal or other expenses shared by the other attendees. The goal is to minimize the financial burden for the organizer to attend.
