[irishpipes]

Can anyone clarify if the "problem" is that "smaller" NPCs are not given the opportunity to colonize, or they are passing on the opportunity due to lack of funds, alumnae, etc? I think there is a big difference.

If they are trying for these larger types of colonizations and are not given the opportunity, (Read: The panhel votes them down due to lack of recognition) I would say the problem lies primarily with the entire NPC, and groups should be better educated on other orgs. (They should be anyway, of course.)

If the smaller NPCs are not accepting the invitations to apply for these colonizations, perhaps the membership at large needs to communicate that they want these expansions to the HQ. Maybe the goals of the HQ are consistent with being successful in a smaller market.

I think a lot of groups keep their expansion policies under their hats, so it may be hard to say.