I don't understand the reasoning behind the company reps going...

I don't understand the reasoning behind the company reps going overseas spruiking a company/resource that is years from being productive. This has been going on virtually since the resource was discovered. What has been gained from it, and what could be the potential future benefits? Can anyone enlighten me. I think until they have all the approvals and necessary funding it is a total waste of time and money. Our board must be a laughing stock atm. Ok for them, they've all got options at rock bottom, no need to invest their own cash, travel the world at will and get paid for it too.