The challenges of concurrently developing an infrastructure and culture that foster knowledge sharing, are comparable to re-building a ship on turbulent high seas. We will hold the Fair in a "safe harbor" where there will be plenty of opportunity for fast-paced learning, productive conversations with experts and colleagues from around the world, opportunities to explore advanced knowledge tools at the vendors' pavilions, or informal exchange in the Community Café open 24 hours each day.

Patterned after the successful CivicNet, this virtual Fair will be a truly "networked" event: virtual tents, acts, workshops, and booths will be the work of many organizations and individuals, adding up to a richly textured coherent whole. Participants will be able to create their own experience by choosing from and combining the parts that trigger their interest.