" because most companies are not in the business of teaching or evangelism, nor should be/can be in that business" Actually most companies _should_ be in the e

" because most companies are not in the business of teaching or evangelism, nor should be/can be in that business" Actually most companies _should_ be in the evangelism and teaching business. The marketing is invaluable. And I bet more companies then you know do this. For example Google just had an event at the GooglePlex for small business owners on how to better user adwords (or something like that - I heard second hand from a friend thats a local small business owner). Even if you can't make a profit at it many businesses actively support user groups and evangelism groups. For example I share a building with Engine Yard and Sauce Labs. Both actively support the relevant user groups with space and time.