NANAIMO – The Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce presents the 8th Annual Business Expo sponsored by Coastal Community Credit Union, Thursday, October 22, 1:00 – 5:00 pm at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. This trade show is targeted both to the public and for business to business shopping. Admission to the Expo Trade Show is free but there are some ‘Expo Extras’ where a modest fee is charged.
According to Chamber CEO Kim Smythe, “It’s like a shopping mall for businesses and a great place to make a deal”.
He went on to say this year’s event promises to be the largest one yet. “Nearly 100 businesses open their doors like never before at the Chamber’s annual Business Expo. So many of them also pre-launch their Xmas products and services, so it makes it worthwhile to jump the queue and check these new ideas out now! It’s all about strengthening business friendships and introducing new businesses to the community.”
Prior to opening the daytime trade show, the Chamber of Commerce offers a luncheon with author, business coach and consultant Clemens Rettich offering his keynote address “This is The Best Time to Start a Small Business”.
Lightning Talks is a mid-afternoon unique breakout session where four keynote speakers take on the subject of ‘The Entrepreneurial Spirit’ with fast paced, funny and very relevant seven minute keynotes speeches. A workshop on elevator speeches follows with a chance for participants to be chosen to give their elevator speech and receive a ‘lightning evaluation’ to win craft beer and locally made chocolate.
At the end of Business Expo, the Community Futures Awards Reception includes appetizers and refreshments and announcement of the Community Futures Booth Awards winners. This event is hosted by Nanaimo’s Coast Bastion Inn.