The 16th annual Business Expo, presented by the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, was a networking success for business professionals, owners and entrepreneurs. Held in the Westfield Shopping Center's El Camino Real parking lot on September 20 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., this prime locale created easy access to over 100 booths highlighting local businesses and non-profit organizations.
New to the event this year, a Technology Pavilion, dedicated to educating Expo-goers about the latest technological trends. The Pavilion also served as a help area with experts in the field along with IT professionals giving tips and assistance for challenges related to purchasing, operating and maintaining technology devices. A Speakers Bureau booth was also new this year and allowed attendees the opportunity to learn more about what a speaker might be able to offer their business or next presentation.
An estimated 2,000 people showed up to peruse booths operated by both Chamber members and prospective Chamber members. The up close and personal design of the expo allowed one-of-a-kind hands on interaction between guests and vendors. Attendees were able to gain essential knowledge of local businesses, their services and products while at the same time receiving the opportunity to network with professionals from a variety of industries.
Several free admission passes were available and the $5 general admission charge allowed most everyone to participate in the business showcase event of the year. Along with an inexpensive admission price, the event also offered free samples, prizes, giveaways and decorative booth displays.
A judging contest was held for "Best in Show" to find the exhibitor with the most creative and informative booth. Coming in first place was Integrity Chiropractic; second place went to Point Loma Credit Union and third place was awarded to AppleSpice Junction.
The Expo was also held in conjunction with the Chamber's monthly Sundowner; this portion of the event occurred in the evening from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. allowing business professionals the opportunity to make contacts and network.
Ted Owen, president and CEO of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce believes that the Business Expo is a unique way to build business relationships. "What other venue provides you with hundreds of leads as well as an abundance of knowledge about so many businesses in one place at one time? I think such a concerted effort intensifies the progress of all involved," Owen says. "You know you have 6 hours to meet as many vendors, professionals or prospective clients as possible. It's really quite amazing."
The Business Expo is still going strong and will present its 17th annual event next year. Join the Carlsbad Chamber in the fall of 2007 for yet another successful business to business program.
New to the event this year, a Technology Pavilion, dedicated to educating Expo-goers about the latest technological trends. The Pavilion also served as a help area with experts in the field along with IT professionals giving tips and assistance for challenges related to purchasing, operating and maintaining technology devices. A Speakers Bureau booth was also new this year and allowed attendees the opportunity to learn more about what a speaker might be able to offer their business or next presentation.
An estimated 2,000 people showed up to peruse booths operated by both Chamber members and prospective Chamber members. The up close and personal design of the expo allowed one-of-a-kind hands on interaction between guests and vendors. Attendees were able to gain essential knowledge of local businesses, their services and products while at the same time receiving the opportunity to network with professionals from a variety of industries.
Several free admission passes were available and the $5 general admission charge allowed most everyone to participate in the business showcase event of the year. Along with an inexpensive admission price, the event also offered free samples, prizes, giveaways and decorative booth displays.
A judging contest was held for "Best in Show" to find the exhibitor with the most creative and informative booth. Coming in first place was Integrity Chiropractic; second place went to Point Loma Credit Union and third place was awarded to AppleSpice Junction.
The Expo was also held in conjunction with the Chamber's monthly Sundowner; this portion of the event occurred in the evening from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. allowing business professionals the opportunity to make contacts and network.
Ted Owen, president and CEO of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce believes that the Business Expo is a unique way to build business relationships. "What other venue provides you with hundreds of leads as well as an abundance of knowledge about so many businesses in one place at one time? I think such a concerted effort intensifies the progress of all involved," Owen says. "You know you have 6 hours to meet as many vendors, professionals or prospective clients as possible. It's really quite amazing."
The Business Expo is still going strong and will present its 17th annual event next year. Join the Carlsbad Chamber in the fall of 2007 for yet another successful business to business program.