Business Builder Expo

The City of Lynnwood is partnering with Economic Alliance Snohomish County to host a one-day expo for entrepreneurs, small business owners, or those thinking about starting a business. Whether you are shaping an idea, launching a new venture, or preparing to scale, the Business Builder Expo will deliver practical education, expert guidance, and meaningful connections to help you move forward with confidence.

Why Attend?

The Business Builder Expo features targeted panels and hands-on workshops focused on the most relevant challenges and opportunities facing today’s entrepreneurs. Sessions will cover turning business ideas into real-world impact, navigating licensing and permitting requirements, using AI and digital advertising to grow your business, preparing for taxes, strengthening cybersecurity, exploring government contracting opportunities, and understanding alternative financing options. In the afternoon, attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in lender matchmaking, with dedicated time to connect directly with lenders and financial institutions to discuss funding options and next steps.

From crafting your business idea, navigating the challenges of launching a startup, or seeking strategies to scale your existing business, you'll find targeted content and resources to meet your needs.

General Admission Includes:

Full access to all panels, workshops, and activities
Complimentary lunch
Networking with fellow entrepreneurs and regional experts
Lender matchmaking sessions

Resource Fair

Don't miss out on a robust resource fair featuring lenders and financial institutions, marketing and branding agencies, business advisors, government agencies, legal and compliance services, and other organizations committed to small business success.

Agenda

08:00 AM - 09:00 AM - Exhibitor Check In / Set Up

09:00 AM - 09:30 AM - Doors Open

09:30 AM - 09:55 AM - Opening Ceremony
Welcome Remarks, Presenting Sponsor Remarks, Opening Remarks, and Closing Remarks

09:55 AM - Resource Fair Opens

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM - Block 1 of Panel Discussions / Workshops
2 Sessions - Alternative Financing for Small Business & Selling to the Government: A Practical Guide for Small Businesses

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Block 2 of Panel Discussions / Workshops
2 Sessions - Cyber Security Essentials for Small Business & Business Opportunities: From Ideas to Impact

12:00 PM - 01:00 PM - Lunch Break / Guest Speakers
Enjoy a catered lunch break with the first 30 minutes reserved for networking followed by a special keynote presentation from Amy Sallin, Director of the Buerk Center for Entrepreneurship in the Foster School of Business at University of Washington

01:00 PM - 02:00 PM - Bock 3 of Panel Discussions / Workshops
2 Sessions - Tax Preparedness for Small Business: Tools, Tips, and Strategies for a Smooth Tax Season & Roadmap to Starting A Business: Licensing & Permitting

01:30 PM - Lender Matchmaking Session
Meet one-on-one with potential lenders for your business

02:00 PM - 03:00 PM - Block 4 of Panel Discussions / Workshops
2 Sessions - Unlocking AI: How Small Businesses Can Work Faster, Smarter, and More Efficiently & Harnessing the Power of Digital Advertising in the Digital Age

03:00 PM - Conference Ends