I have no issues with WordCamp Central having guidelines or rules. It's a foundation. That's what it's supposed to do. Anytime we forget that it's a foundation, we do everyone (ourselves included) a disservice.

But here's the flip side of that coin, and it comes with the maturity in any sector.

The reality is that you can have TONS more events than just WordCamps. WordCamps are defined by the foundation and they're trying to keep them organized and consistent. Great. But if you're developing a WordPress community in your area, or around your company's brand, nothing stops you from creating your own event.

There is nothing magical about the "WordCamp" name that makes the power of gathering people together special.

You lose the sponsorship assistance, but you lose restrictions as well.