Entrepreneurs, community leaders, and residents are invited to connect and celebrate local commerce and innovation at the Small Business Expo 2025. The event, hosted by nonprofit Isles, takes place on Saturday, November 15, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Social Profit Center, 1 North Johnston Avenue, Building A, Hamilton. The free event showcases 25 New Jersey small businesses while offering networking opportunities, expert-led panel discussions, and more than $2,000 in business grants and cash prizes.
For more information or to register for the event, visit www.isles.org/smallbusinessexpo or contact dgonzales@isles.org. There is a $25 fee for vendors to participate.
Highlights of the event include:
Grant Opportunities: More than $2,000 in grants and cash prizes will be awarded throughout the day through raffles, a best business pitch competition, best vending table awards, and other opportunities.
Interactive Vendor Showcase: 25 small New Jersey businesses will have the opportunity to market themselves to attendees, live stream to social media, and be featured in the official program directory for future collaboration. Each vendor will present an elevator pitch to the audience, automatically entering for a chance to win live cash prizes.
Expert Panel Discussions: Attendees can learn from industry experts during dynamic panel discussions covering critical topics, including Small Business Funding & Underwriter Red Flags, Telling Your Business Story, and Balancing the CEO Life.
Entertainment and Networking: The event will feature a live DJ, performances by a local dance company teaching two crowd-favorite line dances, social media walls, a balloon arch, a 360 photo booth, and professional photo and video coverage. The day concludes with a “Networking with a Fun Twist” segment from 3:30 to 5 p.m., featuring music, dancing, and connections.
The schedule includes networking, shopping, and brunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; vendor showcases, panel discussions, and small business pitches from 1 to 3 p.m.; and networking with a twist from 3:30 to 5 p.m.
“We’re thrilled to bring together New Jersey’s vibrant small business community for a day of learning, connection, and celebration,” says Dina Gonzales, manager of culture and community at Isles. “This event will provide invaluable opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow their networks, access resources, and gain visibility for their businesses.”
The Small Business Expo 2025 aims to create lasting impact by providing small business owners with the tools, connections, and recognition they need to thrive in New Jersey’s competitive marketplace.
Founded in 1981, Isles is a non-profit organization that offers interconnected services with a single goal: creating healthy communities and environments necessary for individuals to grow and thrive.
