Small Business Expo 2026
Event Date
September 18–18, 2026
Location
San Diego, CA
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe San Diego Small Business Expo is a one-day, cross-industry business-to-business trade show, conference and networking event for the Southern California small business community. Held at the Sheraton San Diego Resort on Harbor Island, it brings together small business owners, startup founders, marketers, consultants and professionals who are focused on growth.
Attendees can browse a trade show floor of exhibitors offering solutions in marketing, finance, HR, logistics and technology; sit in on workshops and keynote presentations led by industry experts; and take part in structured networking such as speed networking and small-group sessions. The program emphasizes actionable insights on topics like AI for small business, growth strategies for service-based companies, and opportunities specific to the San Diego market.
The event is positioned as the region's largest cross-industry entrepreneur networking gathering, drawing decision-makers across biotech, tech, hospitality, tourism and military-support services. Admission is completely free for attendees, making it an accessible way for local entrepreneurs to build relationships, discover vendors and sharpen their competitive edge in a single day.
Show Highlights
- Free trade show floor featuring exhibitors across marketing, finance, HR, logistics and technology
- Keynote speakers, including Brand Intelligence Strategist Nicole Denise (CEO, CoAgency) and Shark Tank success story Jay Kriner
- Workshops and breakout sessions led by industry experts on marketing, financial management, tax topics and emerging trends such as AI and automation
- Speed networking sessions and small-group workshops for building partnerships and finding new clients
- "GET DOTTED" color-code system — a dotted badge provided at check-in helps attendees quickly locate and connect with people in specific industries
- Exclusive show-only offers, free trials and bundled services from many exhibitors
- Backed by national brands and sponsors such as Delta Air Lines, Walmart, Amazon Business, Intuit QuickBooks, Verizon Business, Dell, Wells Fargo and T-Mobile for Business
Attendance
The organizer reports company-wide (across all cities) that over 5,000 businesses register for each Expo, that roughly 81% of attendees are business owners or C-level executives, and that about 82% of attendees plan to make a purchase within a year. The San Diego page describes the event as the region's largest cross-industry entrepreneur networking event, but does not publish a San Diego-specific attendance figure.
Registration
Attendance is free for all attendees, but registration is required. To register, visit the San Diego event page, enter your name and email, complete the short form (company, phone and postal code) and choose your ticket/badge type. Attendees can upgrade their badge type later by registering again with the same email address. Check-in opens at 9:30 AM on show day.
History
Small Business Expo has produced live, in-person B2B events since 2008 and now runs shows in over 20 major U.S. cities each year, supported by a following of more than 1.2 million. Over the years it has hosted major national exhibitors including Google, T-Mobile, Facebook, Intuit, Delta, Wells Fargo, IKEA, Staples and IBM, and it is recognized as a top 1% trade show among more than 25,000 shows. The 2026 national tour includes 17 stops, with San Diego held on September 18, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the San Diego Small Business Expo held?
The San Diego Small Business Expo takes place on September 18, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST, with check-in opening at 9:30 AM. It is held at the Sheraton San Diego Resort (Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina), 1380 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego, CA.
How much does it cost to attend?
Registration is free for all attendees. Signing up gives you access to the trade show floor, workshops, networking sessions and presentations, though registration in advance is required.
Who should attend the San Diego Small Business Expo?
The event is designed for small business owners, startup founders, marketers, independent consultants and professionals looking to expand their network in San Diego. It draws decision-makers across industries such as tech, biotech, hospitality, tourism and healthcare.
How do I register?
Visit the San Diego event page on the Small Business Expo website, enter your name and email, and complete the short registration form. You can upgrade your badge type later by registering again with the same email address.
What can I expect at the event?
Attendees can meet exhibitors offering business solutions in marketing, finance, HR, logistics and technology; attend keynotes and expert-led workshops; and take part in speed networking and small-group sessions. Many exhibitors also offer show-only pricing, free trials and giveaways.
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