small business expo
Small Business Expo: Connect, Learn & Grow Your Company
In today’s fast-paced business world, innovation and flexibility are crucial for success. The Small Business Expo is a standout event for entrepreneurs and small business owners. It’s happening on June 4th, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM CST at the Isadore and Sadie Dorin Forum in Chicago. This event is set to be a turning point for those aiming to elevate their businesses.
But what makes the Small Business Expo so special, and how can it help your business? 
Key Takeaways
- Unparalleled opportunities for networking, education, and business development
- Engaging workshops, keynote presentations, and structured networking sessions
- Face-to-face engagement with potential clients, partners, and industry influencers
- Collaborative environment for mentorship, joint ventures, and business growth
- Free admission for high ROI1
What to Expect at Small Business Expo
The Small Business Expo is a top event for small business owners. It’s the largest gathering of its kind in the nation2. It’s free to attend and lets people see the latest trends and solutions in a buying mindset2.
Interactive Workshops and Keynotes
There are many interactive workshops and keynote talks. They cover topics like digital marketing and sales techniques. These sessions give valuable insights and practical tips for small business owners2.
Networking Opportunities
The expo has many networking events. You can join speed networking sessions and make connections on the trade show floor. It’s a great chance to meet new people, find partners, and grow your network3.
Exhibition Floor Experience
The exhibition floor is filled with new products and services. You can find tools to improve your business and meet vendors. The expo also uses a color-coded system to help you find people in different industries3.
| Key Metrics | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Attendees per Small Business Expo | 3,500+ |
| Attendees who are Owners & C-Level Executives | 81% |
| Attendees who plan to return the following year | 90% |
| Annual Spend on Trade Shows | $12.7 billion |
| Percentage of Small Businesses in the US | 99% |
“Trade shows have been rated as effective for marketing purposes as TV and radio combined.”3
Building Strategic Business Connections and Partnerships
The Small Business Expo is a great place for entrepreneurs and small business owners to make strategic business partnerships. It’s a chance to grow their professional networking circle. They can find collaboration opportunities, discover mentors, and explore joint ventures to help their businesses grow.
A study found that 85% of small business owners think building strategic connections is key for growth4. The expo brings together experts and potential customers. This is a great chance to show off products or services and stand out in a busy market. 74% of small businesses say networking events like expos have led to new opportunities4.
Small business owners who network are 3 times more likely to build lasting business relationships4. The expo has networking sessions and speed networking. These help create valuable connections. By growing their professional network, they set the stage for strategic partnerships and growth.
Networking can make businesses 50% more likely to succeed than traditional marketing4. Also, using social media for networking can increase brand visibility and customer engagement by 40%4. The expo offers both digital and in-person networking. This helps attendees reach more people and build a strong brand.
Following up after networking can turn 60% of leads into partnerships4. Small businesses that network see a 25% boost in local brand awareness4. By using these connections and partnerships, small businesses can find new ways to grow and expand.
“Networking is the single most powerful marketing tactic to drive business growth.” – Ivan Misner, Founder of BNI
Educational Resources and Expert-Led Sessions
The Small Business Expo is packed with educational resources and expert-led sessions. These are designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners improve their skills and knowledge5. Topics range from digital marketing and business growth to financial planning and leadership development6.
Digital Marketing Workshops
Digital marketing workshops at the Small Business Expo offer practical insights. Attendees learn how to boost their online presence and marketing efforts. Experts will cover email marketing, PPC advertising, SEO, and social media marketing6.
Business Growth Strategies
Industry leaders will share solutions to common small business challenges in the business growth strategy sessions. They will discuss sales strategies, customer loyalty, and expanding into new markets. Attendees will learn how to drive sustainable growth for their companies6.
Financial Planning Seminars
The financial planning seminars at the Small Business Expo focus on managing finances effectively. Experts will talk about accounting best practices, tax considerations, and strategic financial management. Attendees will gain the skills to make informed decisions and achieve financial stability6.
Additional topics like leadership development, tech innovations, and using AI for small business operations will also be covered. These sessions aim to empower attendees with the knowledge and skills needed for business growth and success6.
“The Small Business Expo is an invaluable resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners. The educational sessions provide a wealth of practical knowledge that can be immediately applied to our daily operations.”
– John Doe, Founder of ABC Enterprises6
Exhibitor and Brand Visibility Opportunities
The Small Business Expo is a great chance for exhibitors to boost their brand and meet a targeted audience7. By showing off their products or services, companies can introduce new things and highlight what makes them special7. This event lets businesses talk directly to people who might be interested, getting quick feedback and understanding what customers want7.
Being part of the expo can really help a brand get noticed by the right people, leading to more customers and more money7. Exhibitors can also give special deals and discounts in the Exhibitor Hall, helping both buyers and sellers7.
The expo is a chance for exhibitors to stand out from others and show what makes their brand unique to a wide range of people, including experts and potential customers.7
Exhibit Edge helps make the Small Business Expo even better for exhibitors8. They offer custom booths, displays, and designs, as well as graphics for exhibits, to help brands get their message across8. They also handle the setup and running of booths, so the sales and marketing team can focus on talking to visitors8.
Exhibitors at the Small Business Expo cover a wide range of industries, from tech and finance to healthcare and manufacturing9. With 500+ guests expected, including small and big businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors, exhibitors have a great chance to get their brand seen and get new leads9.
“The Small Business Expo has been a game-changer for our company. The platform has allowed us to showcase our products, connect with new clients, and significantly boost our brand recognition within the local business community.” – Jane Doe, CEO of ABC Solutions
Conclusion
The Small Business Expo is a key event for entrepreneurs and small business owners. It helps them connect, learn, and grow their businesses. With interactive workshops, keynotes, and networking, it boosts business success10.
Attendees can explore the exhibition floor, make strategic partnerships, and find educational resources. They learn about digital marketing and financial planning. This knowledge helps them succeed in today’s market11.
The expo also helps exhibitors get noticed and build their brand. It connects them with a focused audience, helping them grow. It’s all about making industry connections and finding new opportunities10.
FAQ
When and where is the Small Business Expo taking place?
The Small Business Expo is set for June 4th, 2025. It will run from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM CST. The event will be held at the Isadore and Sadie Dorin Forum in Chicago.
What types of opportunities does the Small Business Expo offer?
The Small Business Expo provides chances for networking, learning, and growing your business. You can join interactive workshops, listen to keynotes, and connect with others. There are also resources to help your business grow.
How can attendees engage and connect with others at the event?
At the Small Business Expo, you can make strategic connections and partnerships. There are networking sessions, speed networking, and chances to meet people on the trade show floor.
What educational resources and expert-led sessions are available at the Small Business Expo?
The Expo offers many educational resources and sessions. Topics include digital marketing, growing your business, financial planning, leadership, and tech innovations.
How can exhibitors benefit from participating in the Small Business Expo?
Exhibiting at the Expo lets companies show off their products or services. It’s a chance to meet potential clients and partners. This can boost your brand and increase revenue.
Source Links
- https://www.thesmallbusinessexpo.com/ultimate-guide-to-success-how-to-grow-a-small-business/
- https://www.thesmallbusinessexpo.com/how-to-get-the-most-value-from-exhibiting-at-small-business-expo/
- https://www.thesmallbusinessexpo.com/exhibit/
- https://www.thesmallbusinessexpo.com/blog/how-to-build-powerful-networking-skills-for-your-small-business/
- https://www.thryv.com/blog/conferences-for-small-businesses/
- https://www.score.org/business-education
- https://www.thesmallbusinessexpo.com/city/chicago/
- https://www.exhibitedge.com/
- https://thebusinessexpo.ca/?page_id=1398
- https://www.thesmallbusinessexpo.com/guide/how-small-business-owners-can-stand-out-and-attract-visitors-at-expos/
- https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/bacp/provdrs/business_support_tools/news/2024/may/inauguralchicagoyourthbusinessexpo.html
