For Immediate Release
Mattoon Chamber Gearing Up for Business Expo
The 18th annual Mattoon Chamber of Commerce Business Expo is expanding and offering more interactive displays and a larger Taste of the Expo venue.
The expo is set for 10 am to 3 pm, Thursday, Oct. 3, at Cross County Mall, Mattoon and is free to the general public to attend.
“This is a great opportunity for businesses to enhance their brand and remind community members what they offer and how they contribute to the economic development of the region,” Mattoon Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ed Dowd said.
The cost to participate in the Business Expo varies: Chamber members, $325; Non-chamber members, $425; non-profits and service clubs with five or fewer employees, $200; small businesses with five or fewer employees, $250; Our Town Gallery, $100; Home-based businesses, $50.
Our Town Gallery features locally manufactured goods and gives attendees an inside look at the global reach of Mattoon. Dowd explained that area residents often drive by one of the many manufacturing facilities in the community and have only a vague idea of what they really manufacture. The Our Town Gallery offers manufacturers the opportunity to display their products and talk about the scope of their businesses.
The Taste of the Expo is open from 11:30 am to 2 pm and will feature area restaurants and caterers. Community members can enjoy the Taste of the Expo by purchasing 6 tickets for $5 at the door. Each ticket provides a sampling from one vendor. They are available in advance from the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce office located at 1518 Broadway Ave., for the discounted price of 6 tickets for $4. This year the Taste will be featured in the former Carson’s store and will include ample seating in an air conditioned environment.
Local musical entertainers will be performing from 11 am to 2 pm. Individuals can also donate blood through Community Blood Services of Illinois and they can make an appointment in advance to expedite the experience. By donating a pint of blood during the Expo, donors will receive six free tickets to the Taste of the Expo.
For more information about the expo, or how to become a vendor at the expo, please call the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce at 217 235-5662.
