Databricks Community Innovators - Program

[BS_THE_ANALYST]

Hi, 

I'd like to know what's happened with the Databricks Community innovators program? https://community.databricks.com/t5/databricks-community-innovators/bg-p/databricks-community-news-m... 

Is this still alive? I've applied and emailed: databricks-community@databricks.com but have heard nothing back despite reaching out multiple times. 

Is the program being replaced? Programs like this are huge initiatives for developing community advocates. It'll be a shame to see it go. I'd love to see a clear-cut path to becoming a Databricks Champion/MVP so people can align themselves with that trajectory.

All the best,
BS

[BigRoux]

@MandyR for visibility.

[WiliamRosa]

@BS_THE_ANALYST ,i agree with you. Programs like this give visibility and encouragement to contributors. I also signed up and didn't get a response.

[nayan_wylde]

I too signed up and didn't got a response

[MandyR · Accepted solution]

Hi all! In case we haven't met, I'm Mandy, a new program manager on the Community team here at Databricks.

First of all, thanks for your patience. I know it’s been too quiet on this front for a couple of months. We’ve had some internal changes that required us to rethink how we manage the Innovator program and it took a bit longer than expected. I am so sorry for the lack of communication on our end! 

I’m happy to say I’m going to be leading the charge and I’m so excited to work with you guys more closely!  Right now I am finalizing a few things with internal stakeholders and then I will be sending out an email/adding a community post to everyone who has signed up. 

Here’s basically what’s changing, with more detail to follow:

• New owner: I’m your main POC for all things Innovators!
• Three levels of recognition: Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
• Clear criteria: You’ll know exactly how to earn your next badge.
• Rewards that matter: Badges, recognition, swag and opportunities to share your expertise.

Again, apologies for the lack of comms but know that we are definitely moving and grooving again. I appreciate you bringing this up and am looking forward to connecting with you all here in the Community!

[TheOC]

Hi @BS_THE_ANALYST 
Thanks for raising this discussion, and thank you for the update @MandyR!
Looking forward to hearing about how I can get involved 😊

[BS_THE_ANALYST]

Hi Mandy! 👋

Thanks for the introduction and update. I'm really looking forward to being a part of everything moving forward. Just echoing what @TheOC mentioned above, I'm happy to help/assist in whatever way I can.

Absolutely buzzing based off the info you've provided above @MandyR 🥳.

All the best,
BS