The 2016 Small Business Expo, put on by the Ministry of Commerce and the Cayman Islands Small Business Association (CISBA), will give Cayman’s business community an opportunity to support local entrepreneurship.

The expo, entitled ‘Synergy,’ will take place on Saturday, 28 May, at the University College of the Cayman Islands Fellowship Hall. The event is going into its fourth year, having previously been hosted by the Department of Commerce and Investment (DCI).

Ministry Deputy Chief Officer Tamara Ebanks said expo exhibitors and sponsors will benefit from a unique marketing opportunity.

‘By staging the expo in years past, DCI established a proven and effective method for promoting small businesses. Exhibitors and sponsors alike were able to enjoy additional business opportunities and gain valuable exposure to future clients.

‘This year, the Ministry and CISBA are confident that exhibitors and sponsors will reap similar benefits through heightened visibility before, during and after the expo’, she said.

At present, there are four companies who have confirmed their involvement: gold sponsors Hurley’s Media and Digicel, and bronze sponsors Cayman Enterprise City and Cayman National Bank.

Event sponsors are being sought at the gold, silver and bronze levels. The sponsorship packages cost $4,000 (gold), $2,500 (silver) and $1,500 (bronze).

Among other benefits, the gold sponsor will receive a complimentary 10′ x 8′ booth and free advertising opportunities. Silver sponsors have an opportunity to present workshops and promote their businesses on radio programs. Bronze sponsors have an opportunity to provide giveaways and take part in prize-drawing activities.

CISBA President Dawn McLean-Sawney said the expo will make a positive impact on local commerce.

‘The idea is to increase awareness of Cayman’s varied micro and small businesses; stimulate sales for exhibitors; educate a wider audience on CISBA’s importance; and provide an opportunity for small businesses to network and gain competitive advantages,’ she said.

The expo will feature workshops on topics such as the new Trade and Business Licensing Law, the new Minimum Wage Law, and social media usage. There will also be a cocktail reception that will provide networking opportunities.

More exhibitor and sponsorship details are available through CISBA. For more information, call CISBA on 939-2616 or email [email protected].