I’m on planes for the next several days, as a way to do business. I count on airlines to grow my business, even though the Internet is a huge part of what I do. That’s why I decided to take this particular opportunity, because it matches my own business interests, and because I think it’s a neat opportunity.

This is for US Businesses Only

(according to folks who read all the fine print)

British Airways is giving away 100 Business Opportunity Grants to people who qualify. Basically, British Airways is saying what I always say: it’s great to meet people online, but deals get made face-to-face. I agree with this.

Obviously, there’s other incentives at foot for the airline industry. Travel’s on tough times right now, and companies need any incentive they can to keep us engaged. But there is some logic behind what British Airways is giving away. Here’s what they say on their site:

We reaffirmed this belief through our collaborative research with The Harvard Business Review, that proved the great importance of conducting business in person and its direct relationship to the bottom-line. The study shows that 87% of professionals think that face-to-face meetings are essential for sealing the deal, while 95% said it’s the key to successful, long lasting business relationships. So, it’s an imperative you get quality face time with your clients, no matter how far you need to travel.

And this is what they’re giving away if you get the grant:

• British Airways airfare for 10 round-trip Club World business class flights.
• 5 free British Airways World Cargo freight shipments of up to 500 kilos to worldwide destinations
• $1000 toward accommodation at Courtyard by Marriott
• 5 Regus Businessworld Gold Cards providing access to business lounges worldwide
• Canon PIXMA MX860 Wireless Office All-In-One Printer

It’s a pretty decent deal, I think. For the snarks, yes, this is for publicity for BA, but if you can make a business advantage out of it, why wouldn’t you?

If you want to know more, apply for a Business Opportunity Grant .

Thanks for your time.

The preceding was a sponsored post for British Airways, by way of Izea