2023 WilmingtonBiz Conference & Expo

Thursday is our region's largest annal gathering of the business community. Join us!

Online pre-registration has closed, but you can register at the Convention Center for $10 for full access to the Expo Hall, Seminars and After Hours. (UNCW, CFCC and Brunswick Community College students get free access for the Careers + Talent focus.)

The Keynote Lunch is sold out! To be added to the waitlist, email Jamie Merrill at [email protected]. (Note: The Expo Hall will be closed during the Keynote Lunch.)

The Agenda:

Booths 100-222	Booths 300-419	Booths 500 - 622	Booths 700-721
100 - Cape Fear Community College 101 - Cape Fear Community College 102 - Optimism Oasis 103 - Premier Staffing Solutions 104 - Capone & Associates 105 - JohnnyLukes Kitchen & Bar 106 - Port City Apparel 107 - Miller-Motte College 108 - CAMS 109 - BAQS 110 - 9Round 111 - Boys + Girls Club 112 - Liberty Healthcare 113 - RSVP Cape Fear 114 - Crew-Tech Hardware Software Solutions 115 - Helping Hands of the Cape Fear 116 - Dignity Memorial 117 - Port City Java 118 - Coastal Horizons 119 - Communities in Schools 120 - Communities in Schools 121 - UNCW Center for Marine Science 200 - UNCW Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship 201 - CFCC Small Business Center 202 - Genesis Block 203 - YWCA 204 - BCC Small Business Center 205 - Bank OZK 206 - Thalian Hall 207- United Community Bank 208 - Hilb Group 209 - Southern Lighting 210 - Port City Pergolas 211 - Port City Pergolas 212 - A Touch of Country Venue 213 - Sharonview Credit Union 214 - Saltwater Signworks 215 - SCORE 216 - NCMBC 217 - Channel powered by Live Oak Bank 218 - AARP 219 - SBTDC	300 - Greater Wilmington Business Journal 301 - WILMA Magazine 302 - WB360 303 - The Good Life 304 - Utility Management Services 305 - Samet Corporation 306 - Highland Roofing Company 307 - Lower Cape Fear Water & Sewer Authority 308 - Port City Pergolas 309 - Port City Pergolas 310 - WARM NC 311 - Hill School of Wilmington 312 - TeamLogic IT 313 - Health Begins from Within 314 - Office Furniture Salvage 315 - Heir Media 316 - Catapult 317 - Nothing Bundt Cakes 318 - Cape Fear Solar Systems 319 - Cape Fear Solar Systems 400 - Cape Fear Solar Systems 401 - Cape Fear Solar Systems 402 - YMCA 403 - DesignLoud 404 - DesignLoud 405 - WNY People Development 406 - Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity 407 - Elderhaus PACE 408 - Dogwood Patent & Tademark Law 409 - Wide Open Tech 410 - Cape Fear Public Utility Authority 411 - Cape Fear Public Utility Authority 412 - Freedom Boat Club 413 - Signs By Tomorrow 414 - Citrus Cans 415 - Occasions...Just Write 416 - PickleBall Corporate (team) Building 417 - Summit Design & Engineering 418 - Earney IT 419 - Earney IT	500 - Earney IT 501 - Earney IT 502 - Momentum Companies 503 - Momentum Companies 504 - FOCUS Broadband 505 - Connect Cape Fear 506 - Progress Medical 507- United Way of the Cape Fear Area 508 - Studio 403 509 - Self-Help Credit Union 510 - Salty Bins 511 - Salty Bins 512 - Salty Bins 513 - CW IT Support 514 - Inspire Cabinetry 515 - Target Solutions 516 - UNCW CSB/Swain Center 517 - UNCW Center for Cyber Defense Education 518 - Patriot Illumination 519 - Patriot Illumination 600 - Patriot Illumination 601 - Patriot Illumination 602 - Pioneer Strategies 603 - Goose Masters 604 - Coastal Golf Academy 605 - Salty Fox Services 606 - Adecco 607 - StepUp Wilmington 608 - Business Growers 609 - Business Growers 610 - Axis Fitness + Training 611 - Axis Fitness + Training 612 - CertaPro Painters 613 - Segra 614 - Renewal by Andersen 615 - CloudWyze 616 - Tropical Smoothie Cafe 617 - Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina 618 - Excite Credit Union 619 - Excite Credit Union	700 - Excite Credit Union 701 - Excite Credit Union 702 - One80 Counseling 703 - Winnow Services 704 - CloudWyze 705 - The Diamond Group 706 - Eagle's Dare 707 - Carolina Cleaning Services 708 - Carolina Cleaning Services 709 - Tayloe Gray 710 - Mobile Brake Doctor 711 - Mobile Brake Doctor 712 - Springer Studios 713 - Grey Outdoor 714 - Spiffy 715 - Spiffy 716 - Spiffy 717 - Spiffy 718 - First Tee Greater Wilmington 719 - Pine Valley Market 720 - Barefoot Flooring 721 - UNCW Continuing + Professional Education

MADE: Great Goods from Greater Wilmington

Produced by the Greater Wilmington Business Journal, MADE is a nomination-based competition seeking to spotlight makers, manufacturers, artisans, designers and small businesses in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties.

With roots in an economy originally built on tobacco, textiles, and furniture, North Carolina is no stranger to the making of things. While its industries may have broadened over the years, the focus on locally made goods continues to hold strong. MADE was created to spotlight some of the innovations occurring in design and manufacturing originating in the tri-county area.

MADE Award winners are selected by a judging panel and will be profiled in a special MADE section of the Sept. 15 issue of the Greater Wilmington Business Journal as well as featured at the annual WilmingtonBiz Expo on October 5 at the Wilmington Convention Center.

If you have any questions, please reach out to [email protected]

2023 MADE Award Winners:

Arts:

Exporters:

Food & Beverage:

Functional Products:

Manufacturers:

Supporter:

Leath HR Group

Award categories:

Manufacturers (Example includes: Goods mass-produced in the tri-county area)
Exporters (Example includes: Companies that export outside the United States)
Functional Product (Examples include: furniture, tools, gadgets, beauty products, industrial, medical, energy devices)
Food/Beverage (Examples include: wine/spirits, dry/baked/canned goods, sustainably-grown foods)
Arts (Examples include: apparel, accessories, textiles, home goods, stationery)
Supporter (Examples include: Businesses that support these innovators including law firms, lenders, makerspaces, studio spaces, retail markets, manufacturing associations, etc.

Despite rising interest rates and a national real estate slowdown, our region continues to see significant population growth. On October 5, we will take a look back and a look ahead with the President of the Richmond Federal Reserve and UNCW’s Regional Economist.

Speakers Include:

The National Outlook with Tom Barkin, President & CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

Tom serves on the Fed’s chief monetary policy body, the Federal Open Market Committee, and is also responsible for bank supervision and the Federal Reserve’s technology organization. He is “on the ground” continually in the Fed’s Fifth District, which covers South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, D.C., West Virginia, and Maryland. His engagement in the region has brought real attention to areas facing economic challenges.

Prior to joining the Richmond Fed, Tom was a senior partner and CFO at McKinsey & Company, a worldwide management consulting firm, where he also oversaw McKinsey’s offices in the southern United States.

The Regional Outlook with Mouhcine Guettabi, Regional Economist, UNCW's Swain Center

Mouhcine Guettabi joined UNCW in August 2021 and is serving as both an Associate professor as well as the area’s regional economist.

Before joining UNCW, he was an associate professor of economics at the University of Alaska Anchorage. On the academic front, he is an applied microeconomist, with his recently published research being found in some of the leading economic journals such as the Review of Economics and Statistics, Journal of Environmental Economics and Management, and the Journal of Regional Science. In addition to his academic work, during his time at UAA, he regularly produced economic forecasts, analyzed the state's finances, conducted analysis on key policy issues, and testified in front of the legislature.

Tickets	Price
2023 WilmingtonBiz Expo Attendee Individual ticket to Expo Hall & Business Seminars	$5.00

Event Discussion

Seminars

Presenter	Seminar	Sponsor
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 9:15 AM to 10:00 AM
Brian Satz, President, CW IT Support	Don't Fall Victim to Cybercrime: Keys to Keeping Your Business Protected & Productive In this session we will explore the current trends of cybercrime and the impact it can have to you and your business's safety, reputation, productivity, and bottom line. We’ll discuss some methods used by hackers to exploit the weaknesses of their victims and some practical tactics you should employ to minimize your risk and exposure against such threats.	CW IT Support
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 9:15 AM to 10:00 AM
Terry Espy, President, MoMentum Companies & Joan Loch, Business Broker, MoMentum Companies	The Multiple Aspects of Business Ownership: Start-Up to Exit Strategy Whether you are considering starting the business of your dreams or currently have an ongoing enterprise, it is vital that you keep the end game in mind. The process begins the day you decide to start the business! So many times business owners become consumed with the day to day operations that it is difficult to maintain a 30,000 foot perspective. Throughout the years you end up dealing with the ups and downs of the economy, market changes, staffing challenges and end up reacting when you intended to be proactive. This seminar will give you an opportunity to look at your business with a clear vision for the future. Excellent examples of businesses that have grown from infancy to maturity will be discussed with valuable examples of “what not to do” and “what worked well”.	MoMentum Companies
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 9:15 AM to 10:00 AM
Derek Schmidt, Founder & CEO, DesignLoud Marketing Agency	Mastering Digital Marketing: A Comprehensive Guide for Small Business Owners Scaling Up This presentation aims to provide small business owners with an in-depth understanding of essential digital marketing strategies. It covers a range of topics from the customer journey, SEO, PPC advertising, social media marketing, content marketing, email marketing, analytics and reporting, online reputation management, eCommerce marketing, to influencer marketing. By the end of this presentation, attendees will have a holistic view of digital marketing and be equipped with practical knowledge to implement these strategies effectively.	DesignLoud
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 9:15 AM to 10:00 AM
Katherine Daniel, Founder & Principal, Montani Consulting & Dr. Yolanda Pollard, Director, UNCW's Swain Center	Recharge, Succeed, Repeat: The Self-Care Cycle for Professionals Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, an entrepreneur or dedicated employee, discover a transformative cycle tailored to your career stage. Learn the art of nurturing yourself as you evolve, ensuring sustained success. Embrace recharging to fuel achievement and integrate it seamlessly into your routine. Prioritize self-care as an essential element of your professional growth - because our aim is not just to survive, but to truly thrive.	UNCW Swain Center
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM
Austin Stone, VP of National Business Development, Target Solutions	Why Partnering with a Turnkey Restoration Company is Valuable to Your Business Target Solutions will be discussing a variety of topics centralized around the restoration, remediation, and reconstruction of small and large loss events. The presentation will highlight the importance and benefits of Preplanning for Catastrophic events, day to day disruptions and touch on insurance navigation. Audience participants will hear of some notable case studies highlighting recent and ongoing projects, lessons learned and how adapting in the industry is essential to minimizing client business disruption.	Target Solutions
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM
Janaiah von Hassel, CEO, Winnow Services	Recruiting Best Practices Simplicity and systems are the keys to effective recruiting, saving you time and money. Learn practical steps your team can use to create a foolproof recruiting process that wins every time. Don’t let the bells and whistles of complicated procedures overwhelm you. Explore the simple measures you can take to improve your recruiting efforts, enhance your interview process, and commit your time and energy to effectively recruiting the best candidates for your company’s needs.	Winnow Services
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM
Derek Schmidt, Founder & CEO, DesignLoud Marketing Agency	Supercharge Your Small Business: Unleash the Power of AI to Transform Your Marketing Campaigns This presentation will explore the potential of AI in boosting small business marketing campaigns. It will delve into how AI-powered tools can automate processes, personalize customer experiences, and improve decision-making based on customer insights. By highlighting various AI marketing tools and presenting real-life examples, this presentation aims to equip small business owners with the knowledge and confidence to incorporate AI into their marketing strategies.	DesignLoud
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 10:15 AM to 11:00 AM
Stefanie Adams, Founder, WNY People Development	Leading Across Generations: The Multigenerational Workplace For the first time in history, five generations of employees are in the workplace. In this interactive and engaging presentation, participants will learn work and communication styles, Boomers to Gen Z, and the historical context that contributes to them; strategies presented to leverage multigenerational strengths and differences. Simple and actional relationship building activities will be shared to create inclusive environments where all employees, regardless of age, will feel valued, respected, and seen. Participants will learn to foster a more culturally competent and inclusive multigenerational workplace through data, resource sharing, interactive activities, open dialogue, and a little bit of fun.	WNY People Development
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM
Robert Parker, COO, Cape Fear Solar Systems	Creating an Outstanding Company Culture Creating a vibrant company culture that supports and nurtures employees is so important that it is the key to our success—and a unique and sustainable competitive advantage. By treating employees exceptionally well, they take great care of your customers, then your customers take care of your business. Learn how Cape Fear Solar Systems has created a culture that is fun, engaging, team oriented, and focused—which has helped increase profits.	Cape Fear Solar Systems
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM
Coach Reggie, Master Business Coach & Global Trainer	Sales Training Master Class Preview In this fast-paced, power packed session you will pick up sales tactics and strategies that will instantly help you close more sales. You will hear the “Greatest Hits” from our 12-Week Sales Master Class that is increasing commission checks and growing the bottom line of many local businesses. To be a top performer you must train with the best. In 45 minutes, you will experience a small sampling of the best sales training available in the Wilmington area.	Business Growers
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM
Theresa Bassett, CEO, The Diamond Group	Inbound Marketing: The Formula for Making Your Website & Digital Doorstep a 24/7 Salesperson How to Attract More of the Right Conversations The Marketing Mix - Organic Search + Paid *Clarity is King - messaging and amplifying your brand	The Diamond Group
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM
Shaun Olsen, CEO, CloudWyze	Go Fund Yourself: A Discussion on How Your Business Can Leverage Grants Are you missing out on capital available to your business? There is a diverse landscape of grant opportunities for non-profits, entrepreneurs and small business owners that you may be able to benefit from, but they can be challenging and complex to navigate. CloudWyze CEO, Shaun Olsen will lead a discussion with a panel of professionals experienced in grant funding on how to identify the right grants, write compelling proposals, and increase your chances of success. Whether you are a startup or an established business, this discussion is a must-attend event for anyone looking to secure funding for their ventures.	CloudWyze
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM
Robert Parker, COO, Cape Fear Solar Systems	Emerging Energy Technologies Learn what’s new in energy technology with a focus on how to utilize and develop scalable technologies in any business. Join us as we explore the top energy technology trends for 2023 and beyond. Energy remains one of the biggest areas of investments worldwide. As the world moves away from fossil fuels, the renewable energy market is taking off. In this session you can expect to gain key insights on energy technology deployment plans, adoption timelines, values, and risks.	Cape Fear Solar Systems
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM
Coach Reggie, Master Business Coach & Global Trainer	Management Training Master Class Preview If you are a top performer and high achiever that has been catapulted into a position of management without the training, tools and development to be a great manager, you are not alone! In 45 minutes, you will learn strategies and tactics that will instantly make you a better manager. This session will give you the “Greatest Hits” from our 12-Week Management Master Class that teaches local managers practical systems and processes that helping them get better outcomes from their team, reduce drama, and lower chaos in their organizations.	Business Growers
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM
Angela Conicelli, VP of Sales, Craig Snow, Sr. Marketing Consultant & Stacey Stewart, Sr. Marketing Consultant, Greater Wilmington Business Journal	Are You Lost in the Noise? Does it feel like you are marketing into the wind? Who sees your message? Do they understand and trust what you have to say? Join us for an interactive session to understand how your marketing messages and personal brand can break through the noise. Make connections that improve your business and your life. Create new habits that will help you build trust in your brand through clarity, compassion, and community engagement.	Greater Wilmington Business Journal
Thursday, Oct 5, 2023 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM
Shaun Olsen, CEO, CloudWyze	Raising Capital 101: Panel Discussion Are you an entrepreneur looking to take your business to the next level? Are you a startup founder seeking funds to fuel your growth? If so, join us as we bring together professionals from various industries to share their insights and experiences on securing funding for your business. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this discussion will equip you with the knowledge and strategies you need to successfully raise capital and propel your business forward.	CloudWyze