Demo is definitely a large event, but there is a lot of push-back against pay to play events like this, and particularly with that kind of dollar figure.<p>I personally think it often depends on how this 'friend' plans to benefit from going to demo.<p>I'd recommend looking through some videos from previous demos, and look at the companies who have presented there. Does it fit with what the new company is doing?
Are they looking for partners who attend?
Are they looking for funding? if so, is paying $18k+ (don't forget incidentals) the best way to go about doing this?<p>I'd would think that it would be VERY difficult for a small start-up to justify that kind of cost, but in some instances, it may be worth it. For most companies, I don't think it is.