I think Patric has the point about going and solving real problems AND making money in the process. A miniconference is the lazy route because you are going to see needs filtered through someone else's point of view. If you are going to develope a product it has to be from your point of view and the needs you feel are uncovered.
I've been working in a market that is not going to change the word, but it's very far from my expertice field. I'll say that sometimes "experts" are so entrenched on the existing conditions(or they have too much to risk) that you need a child yelling that the king is naked, to bring light into the room.
To find problems to solve, you only need to walk with your eyes open, and listen when people talk. There are so many broken processes out there that it's overwelming.
