2026 City of Charleston Small Business Expo

Join us for the 7th Annual City of Charleston Small Business Opportunity Expo, a high-impact event designed to equip entrepreneurs and small business owners with the tools, relationships, and opportunities needed to grow and scale their business.

Hosted by the City of Charleston Small Business Enterprise and the Office of Economic Services, this free event brings together government officials, resource partners, and decision-makers under one roof for a full day of learning and engagement.

This is more than an expo, it’s a business growth experience.

✔ Gain practical strategies from expert-led workshops
✔ Connect directly with City departments and resource partners
✔ Discover opportunities for contracting and collaboration
✔ Network with fellow entrepreneurs and business leaders
✔ Learn how to leverage social media to grow your business

• Small business owners
• Startups and early-stage entrepreneurs
• Established businesses looking to scale
• Vendors interested in government opportunities

Info: Learn what SBE certification is, who qualifies, required documentation, common application mistakes, and how certification can position your business for contracting opportunities. We’ll also cover how to maintain and renew your certification once approved.
Whether you’re exploring eligibility or preparing to apply, this session will provide practical guidance, helpful tips, and a clear roadmap to move forward with confidence.

Info: Understanding your legal and financial responsibilities is critical to building a strong and sustainable business. This workshop breaks down essential legal basics, tax requirements, and audit preparation into practical, easy-to-understand guidance.

Learn key business structures and compliance requirements, how to stay organized for tax season, common tax mistakes to avoid, and how to prepare your records in case of an audit. We’ll also discuss best practices for documentation, financial tracking, and protecting your business.

Info: Come to connect, learn and engage with government agencies, resource partners and fellow entrepreneurs.

Info: Government agencies and influential companies provide an array of procurement and contracting opportunities for small businesses. Learn how your business can benefit from working with these entities.

Info: Hear firsthand insights on overcoming obstacles, accessing opportunities, managing growth, and adapting in a competitive market. Panelists will discuss practical tips, key turning points, and advice they wish they had known earlier.
This interactive session includes time for audience questions, giving attendees the opportunity to gain honest perspectives and actionable insights from entrepreneurs who have successfully navigated the journey.

Info: Panelists will share tips on content creation, branding consistency, short-form video trends, paid advertising, and measuring performance through analytics. Learn how to collaborate effectively with influencers and develop campaigns that align with your business goals.
Walk away with actionable ideas, proven tools, and a clearer understanding of how to use social media as a powerful growth strategy for your business.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Charleston Gaillard Center, 95 Calhoun Street, Charleston, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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