Port of Los Angeles

Valley Business Expo ’10 explodes with business opportunities

Hundreds of Business Owners and Government Representatives Packed into The Valley Busines Expo’10 at the Pickwick Gardens Conference Center

Valley Business Expo ’10

By George S. Mc Quade III

A business to business expos put on by The Valley Economic Alliance attracted huge crowd this week in Burbank. There were a half dozen business workshops sessions, one every hour from mid morning until 5 p.m to help small and large business owners get the edge in this down economy.

“This is an incredible business expo and it is the best thing for any business owner,” said M C Townsend, Regional Black Chamber of Commerce, San Fernando Valley. ”We service more than 35 cities and we have our business member taking turns working our display table. Access and visabililty are key. Networking is ultimate resource for businesses and the chamber is trying to provide that.”

M C Townsend - Regional Black Chamber of Commerce San Fernando Valley

“I can not agree more with MC Townsend. Visibility is so important today with the new media environment, that any business no matter how big or small it is, must to pay attention to the changes that are coming so fast,” explained Aida Mayo, president, MAYO Communications, who attended the Valley Business Expo ’10. “For a public relations professional, understanding the role and how to utilize the social media channels, becomes essential in any publicity campaign.”

Mayo notes that a website, nice brochure, and exhibit booth are not enough to get your brand out there. “I was surprised to see how many companies at this event I talk to, do not make publicity part of their marketing efforts,” she said.

“Whatever the needs are – increasing sales, attracting new partners or investors, creating a brand for a start-up, reaching potential donors, educating, or outreach – publicity is the best approach to obtain visibility today. It is the most cost-effective way to create brand recognition for your company. The longer you wait, the deeper you bury your business.”

Some of the exhibits included Ultra Glass, VICA, LAEDC, Metropolitan Water of Southern California, The Gas Company, The Governor’s General Services Dept., The Valley Economic Alliance, Weyant Enterprises, City of Burbank, City of Glendale, Pierce College, SOI, Pickwick Gardens (events planner), Santa Clarita Valley Economic Alliance and the Port of Los Angeles.