The 2026 Triad Business Expo, presented by Total Concepts International, Inc., returns to Winston-Salem for its 13th year, continuing a powerful tradition of connecting entrepreneurs, businesses, professionals, and community partners from across the Triad and beyond.

Over the past 13 years, the Expo has grown from a regional business event into a dynamic platform for entrepreneurship, professional development, networking, education, and economic opportunity. As the business landscape continues to change, the Expo continues to evolve—creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.

"What has allowed this Expo to remain successful is our willingness to evolve while staying committed to creating opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Triad," says Reginald D. McCaskill, President and CEO of Maximum Enterprises, Inc.

That spirit of innovation has defined the Expo throughout its history. In 2020, the event transitioned to a fully virtual experience. In 2021, it expanded to multiple locations, and in 2022, programming stretched across three weekends and three Triad cities. In recent years, the Expo has returned to the Benton Convention Center in Downtown Winston-Salem, while expanding its year-round commitment to entrepreneurship, education, networking, and business development.

In 2026, that evolution continues as the event moves forward as The Triad Business Expo—with an expanded vision focused on connecting businesses, developing entrepreneurs, creating opportunities, and strengthening the economic vitality of the communities we serve.

This year's Expo builds on more than a decade of success with an even greater emphasis on business growth, entrepreneurship, financial empowerment, professional development, and meaningful connections.

KidzBiz: Young entrepreneurs get an opportunity to experience business ownership firsthand by showcasing and selling their products and services while developing confidence, creativity, and valuable business skills.

Youth Entrepreneur Academy (YEA): A hands-on entrepreneurial development experience for high school students interested in learning the fundamentals of starting and operating a business. Participants gain practical knowledge, interact with established entrepreneurs and professionals, and have opportunities to showcase their business concepts.

CORE ESSENTIALS: A life skills and personal development experience designed to prepare young people for future success through leadership, communication, financial literacy, personal branding, career readiness, and professional development.

Rip the Runway Fashion Showcase: Creativity meets entrepreneurship as emerging designers and fashion professionals showcase their talent, brands, and unique perspectives during one of the Expo's most exciting experiences.

Expanded Business Resources: Attendees will have access to workshops, panel discussions, business resources, professional connections, and educational opportunities designed to help entrepreneurs launch, strengthen, sustain, and grow their businesses.

The Expo weekend begins with the highly anticipated Wealth Building & Empowerment Summit, bringing together accomplished entrepreneurs, executives, industry experts, and business leaders for an engaging experience focused on building businesses and creating sustainable financial success.

Attendees can expect:

• Meaningful networking with entrepreneurs, professionals, and business leaders
• Workshops focused on business growth, financial success, and wealth-building strategies
• Interactive panel discussions and educational sessions
• Practical information and resources that can be applied beyond the event
• Insights from accomplished entrepreneurs, executives, and industry professionals
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"Our goal is for attendees to leave with more than inspiration. We want them to walk away with practical strategies, meaningful connections, and resources they can use to move their businesses and professional goals forward," McCaskill emphasizes.

A cornerstone of the Expo continues in 2026: The Triad Business Expo is free and open to the public.

Hundreds of entrepreneurs, business owners, professionals, aspiring entrepreneurs, students, families, community leaders, and supporters are expected to come together for an exciting celebration of business, innovation, creativity, entrepreneurship, and community.

Leading up to the Expo, business mixers and networking experiences throughout the Triad will bring entrepreneurs, professionals, community partners, and business leaders together to build relationships, exchange ideas, create connections, and generate excitement for the 13th Annual Triad Business Expo.

The mission continues to grow, but the goal remains simple: create opportunities, connect people, strengthen businesses, and help build a thriving entrepreneurial community throughout the Triad and beyond.