URGENT UPDATE: The Southern Georgia Black Chambers (SGBC) has unveiled the complete lineup for the highly anticipated 2025 Small Business Summit & Expo, happening from November 6-9 at the Rainwater Conference Center in Valdosta. This premier event, themed Pride & Prosperity, is drawing registered attendees from across the region, including major cities like Atlanta, Tifton, and Albany.
The main event, taking place on Saturday, November 8, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., is free and open to the public. Attendees can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere featuring live DJ performances from DJ AP of Star 105.3 FM and the chance to win door prizes, including valuable professional business consultations.
“This is not just a local expo; it is a regional economic engine,” stated H. DeWayne Johnson, President/CEO of SGBC. The event aims to connect entrepreneurs with essential resources to drive their businesses forward.
The weekend’s agenda is packed with opportunities for networking and learning:
– **Thursday, November 6 (6 p.m.):** Kick off the weekend with the Chamber Night Networking Mixer on the Rainwater Veranda, featuring DJ Freeze. This event is complimentary for SGBC members and registered exhibitors.
– **Friday, November 7 (6 p.m.):** Join the Sound Bath Experience focused on entrepreneurial wellness, led by Ashley Rhys, MS, LMFT, EMDR-C. This session is designed to help attendees recharge and refocus.
– **Saturday, November 8 (11:30 a.m.):** The main Summit & Expo opens its doors to the public, showcasing dynamic speakers, food trucks, and exhibitors from various sectors, including non-profits and start-ups.
– **Sunday, November 9 (11:30 a.m.):** Conclude the weekend with a Business Brunch Meet-up at Big Nick’s Juke Joint, where attendees can enjoy 30% off brunch by showing their official online registration.
The speaker lineup features industry leaders discussing critical business topics:
– Jalen Uboh (Uboh Companies): The Blueprint to Multi-Million Dollar Scaling.
– Nazarene Dorsey-Bell (BCA Culture): Using AI to Scale and Profit.
– Marvin Terrell (Terrell Advisory Group): Financial Mastery & Understanding.
– Stephanie Johnson (The Downtown Business Collective): Activating an AI Business Strategy.
– Stephanie Bullard (Etiquette & Grace Academy): The Professional Etiquette Edge.
– David DiSalvo (Rainwater Conference Center): Tourism’s Economic Impact for South Georgia.
The event is supported by various sponsors, including Langdale Hyundai of South Georgia, ACE South Georgia, and the Georgia Black Doula Network. Public attendance is free, but online registration is required to be eligible for door prizes and the brunch discount. On-site registration will also be available during the expo.
Limited exhibitor tables and food truck spots are still open for businesses aiming to connect with a regional audience. For more information on free attendance, exhibitor booths, or sponsorship opportunities, visit: www.sgablackchambers.org/expo.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to engage with key players in the business community and elevate your entrepreneurial journey!
