Small Business Expo 2026
Event Date
October 29–29, 2026
Location
Austin, TX
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe Austin Small Business Expo is a one-day B2B trade show, conference, and networking event for entrepreneurs, founders, and small business owners across Central Texas. The Austin Small Business Expo is described as the city's biggest small business conference, bringing together entrepreneurs, founders, and business owners to learn how to increase revenue, scale smarter, and grow their network.
Attendees can expect a full day of exhibitor booths, expert-led workshops, keynote presentations, and structured networking. Unlike smaller mixers or casual meetups, the event brings together over 2,000 entrepreneurs, small business owners, and industry leaders under one roof, with structured networking, expert workshops, and exhibitor opportunities. The Small Business Expo serves as a platform for showcasing products, accessing resources, and participating in interactive seminars, workshops, and speed networking sessions.
The show is a strong fit for a broad cross-section of the local business community. It is ideal for entrepreneurs, small business owners, startups, marketers, and professionals looking to expand their network and grow their business in Austin. A wide range of industries are represented, including tech, creative services, retail, hospitality, healthcare, and more.
Show Highlights
- Keynote speakers: The Austin lineup includes Todd Heimes, Vice President of Amazon Business, and Nicole Denise, Brand Intelligence Strategist and CEO of CoAgency.
- Workshop speakers: Sessions are led by industry experts across finance, tax, marketing, and technology, including representatives from Texas Capital Bank and Verizon, plus Shark Tank success stories such as Kirby Holmes (K9 Mask) and Yve-Car Momperousse (Kreyòl Essence).
- Signature networking: A Dotted color-code system lets attendees easily locate and connect with people in different industries, with a Dotted badge provided at check-in.
- Exhibitor hall: A show floor of vendors offering products and services to help small businesses grow.
- Education: Workshops and panels covering marketing, financial planning, digital presence, and scaling strategies.
Attendance
The Austin event draws 2,000+ entrepreneurs, founders, and business owners. Across its national series, the organizer reports broader figures: over 5,000 businesses register for each expo, and 82% of attendees have intent to purchase within one year. 81% of attendees are business owners or C-level executives.
Registration
General admission is free. General admission is free, and premium passes are also offered for attendees who want access to VIP networking lounges, reserved seating, and other exclusive perks.
- Visit the official Austin event page and enter your details to register.
- Registration is open; you can register at any time by providing your full name and email on the event page.
- Click "Register (or upgrade)" to complete the process, and use the same form to upgrade your badge type after registering.
History
Small Business Expo has produced live, in-person B2B conferences since 2008, spanning over 20 major U.S. cities. The organizer reports over 1.2 million followers and a reputation as a go-to hub for small business vendors and resources. The show runs an annual national circuit; in 2026 it visits cities including Orlando, Miami, New York, Chicago, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, and Atlanta, with the Austin edition held at the Palmer Events Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the Austin Small Business Expo?
The Austin Small Business Expo takes place on October 29, 2026, at the Palmer Events Center, located at 900 Barton Springs Road in downtown Austin, TX. The event runs during the day, from morning until 5:00 PM.
How much does it cost to attend?
General admission is free. The organizer also offers premium passes that add perks such as VIP networking lounges and reserved seating.
Who should attend the Austin Small Business Expo?
It is designed for entrepreneurs, small business owners, startups, marketers, and professionals looking to grow their network and business. A wide range of industries are represented, including tech, creative services, retail, hospitality, and healthcare.
How do I register?
Registration is open and can be completed at any time on the official Austin event page by entering your full name and email. You can use the same form to upgrade your badge type after registering.
Is parking available at the venue?
Yes. Parking is available at the Palmer Events Center for a day rate of $12, with garage entrances on Barton Springs Rd. and Riverside Dr. Arrive early, as parking may be limited.
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