Business Champions Awards Breakfast
The Business Champions Awards program was established by the MetroHartford Alliance and their partner, the Hartford Business Journal in 2004. The program recognizes the fastest growing privately-held companies headquartered in Central Connecticut that have experienced significant achievements in one or all four of the following categories: revenue; innovation; workforce development; and sustainability for 2009 over 2008. These companies are recognized at the Business Champions Awards Champagne Breakfast, presented by the MetroHartford Alliance and the Hartford Business Journal on June 10th at 7:15 AM at the Connecticut Convention Center ballroom.

Match Maker Session
The Small Business Administration’s Business to Business Matchmaker Session is the Business to Business version of Speed Dating: a rare opportunity for you to sit down with buyers from a variety of Federal Agencies, State and Municipal Agencies and major corporations all in one convenient location… the June 10th 2010 CT Business Expo! Through a series of pre-scheduled meetings, you will meet face-to-face for 10 minutes with the key purchasing officials from each company or agency. In short order you will determine if the purchasing representative has a need for your product or service and if so, what would be then next steps to pursue contracts with that particular company. It is important to come prepared with a brief but complete “pitch” and a one or two page brochure outlining the highlights and capacities of your business. It is also important for all participating in the Matchmaking sessions during which you explain how your business or service can benefit that organization. Pre-scheduled appointments with the SBA are required. Contact Lisa Powell, SBA, (860) 240-4892 or lisa.powell@sba.gov for more information and to schedule your appointment.

CT Business Connection (9am-3pm)
Need financing for a building or equipment? Interested in lean principles? Need to hire or train workers? Want to learn about the state’s export assistance? Looking for equity capital? Want to learn about tax credits?Want to learn about government contracting, licensing, and permits? Looking to save on energy costs? Seeking business plan assistance?

The “CT Business Connection” at the 2010 CT Business Expo gives attendees the rare opportunity to meet one-on-one with representatives from DECD, Connecticut Innovations, the Connecticut Development Authority, Regional Revolving Loan Funds, ConnSTEP, and many more. No appointment is necessary.

Ask the Experts
Get the latest information on health care and insurance plans for your business and employees. Ask questions and learn techniques to reduce costs and maximize coverage. Sponsored by the Chamber Insurance Trust and Chamber Benefit Centers Leadership Cabinet.

Nonprofit Heroes Awards Event
The Nonprofit Heroes Awards program was established by the Hartford Business Journal in 2009. The program recognizes indviduals and organizations making a difference in the nonprofit community. Award categories include: Nonprofit volunteer of the Year, Nonprofit Executive of the Year, Nonprofit Organization of the Year, Nonprofit Grantor of the Year, Social Entrepreneur of the Year and Philanthropist of the Year. These companies and individuals are recognized at the Nonprofit Heroes event, presented by the Hartford Business Journal on June 10th at 4:00pm at the Show Floor Theater on the show floor. The event is held in association with the Connecticut Association of Nonprofits and sponsored by Comcast Business Class.

Networking Extravaganza (5-7pm)
Wrap up your expo show day by joining us for lots of networking cheer, entertainment and fun prizes in the Connecticut Convention Center Atrium. Sponsored by Cox Business.