Description

It’s Back! The DMV’s largest LGBTQ+ networking and trade show returns — PRIDE IN BUSINESS EXPO (formerly Mega Networking). Bigger. Bolder. Queerer than ever.

ABOUT THE EVENT:

• 25 Exhibitors & Vendors.
• 150 Attendees (no fee to attend).

ATTENDEES: Complimentary attendance is available for those who wish to walk the expo floor and/or attend educational sessions. Suitcasing is not allowed.

EXHIBITORS: Companies that wish to exhibit. Selling tangible items is not permitted. 

• 1 Table and 2 Chairs Provided.
• Pride Business Expo Directory Listing.
• On-site logo recognition.
• Company Name Listed in Marketing Emails.
• Social Media Shout Out.

ARTISAN VENDORS: Individuals or Companies who wish to sell tangible items.

• 1 Table and 2 Chairs Provided.
• Pride Business Expo Directory Listing.
• Company Name Listed in Marketing Emails.

SPONSORS: Ranging from $750 - $5,000.

• Benefits depend on the sponsorship level.
• Pride Business Expo Directory Listing.

EDUCATION SESSIONS:

How to Get Media Coverage for Your Small Business - 4:30 pm - 5:00 pm

Every entrepreneur has a story – but many don’t know how to get free news coverage and use general targeting to capture visibility and ROI. This session will cover how small business owners can use ‘earned media’ and ‘paid media’ to get people to know you exist, talk about you, and become customers. Two pros with decades of experience in the media business will reveal the best tips and tricks, the biggest mistakes to avoid, and how to run an efficient campaign on any budget! 

Speakers: Leslie DeMott, Nextar Media Group & Mark Albert, Media Advisory Experts.

Driving Equity in Entrepreneurship: Supporting LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs and Allies in the DMV 5:15 pm - 5:30 pm

Join us for an engaging and practical conversation with small business development leaders and advocates working across the DMV region. This panel explores the unique challenges and opportunities faced by LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs when launching and scaling their businesses — particularly in Arlington, DC, and Maryland. Panelists will share firsthand insights from working with hundreds of small businesses annually, discussing how the entrepreneurial landscape has evolved for underrepresented communities, and offering concrete advice on navigating resources, accessing support, and building sustainable enterprises. From financial literacy to cross-jurisdictional collaboration, this session is designed to equip aspiring and current LGBTQ+ business owners with the tools and knowledge to thrive. 

Speakers: Alex Held, Arlington Economic Development; Javier “Javi” Mulé, DC Department of Small and Local Business Development and Naddia Clute, Montgomery County Small Business Navigator

LGBT Business Enterprise® (LGBTBE®) Certification Process - 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Join The National LGBTQ+ & Allied Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) team for a session on the LGBT Business Enterprise® (LGBTBE®) certification process. This presentation will provide an overview of the National LGBTQ+ & Allied Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), walk you through our new application platform: NGLCC Nexus: The Certification Hub, and explain each step of the certification process. We’ll also highlight the many benefits of certification, from increased visibility to opportunities to connect with NGLCC Corporate Partners and fellow certified businesses. Whether you’re just getting started or considering certification for your business, this session will equip you with the knowledge and resources you need to take the next step. 

Speakers: Sydney Harris and Kyra Stanley, NGLCC.

Register today before the event sells out!