Isles, a Trenton-based nonprofit organization that promotes healthy communities and economic opportunity, will host the 2025 Small Business Expo on Saturday, Nov. 15.
The free event, which takes place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., will be at the Social Profit Center in Hamilton.
The event will highlight 25 small businesses from across New Jersey and include networking, panel discussions and more than $2,000 in business grants and cash prizes.
Organizers say the expo will celebrate local entrepreneurship while offering practical tools for growth.
“We’re thrilled to bring together New Jersey’s vibrant small business community for a day of learning, connection, and celebration,” said Dina Gonzales, Isles’ manager of culture and community.
“This event will provide invaluable opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow their networks, access resources, and gain visibility for their businesses,” she said.
Event highlights include raffles, a business-pitch contest, and “best vendor table” awards.
Each of the 25 participating vendors will give a short elevator pitch to attendees and a livestream audience for a chance to win live cash prizes.
Panel discussions will cover topics such as small-business funding and underwriter red flags, telling your business story, and balancing leadership and life as a CEO.
Entertainment will include a live DJ, a local dance performance, and attractions like a 360-degree photo booth and social media wall.
The event concludes with “Networking with a Fun Twist,” featuring music and dancing from 3:30 to 5 p.m.
The schedule includes brunch and shopping from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by the vendor showcase and discussions from 1 to 3 p.m.
Admission is free for attendees and $25 for vendors, with slots still available. Isles expects more than 120 guests, including entrepreneurs, residents, and community leaders.
The expo builds on Isles’ mission to support small businesses and strengthen local economies across New Jersey.
For details or registration, visit isles.org/smallbusinessexpo or email dgonzales@isles.org.
