The Shop Local, Grow the Economy Small Business Expo will return to Tutu Park Mall on St. Thomas on Saturday, Feb. 21, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., bringing together local businesses, government agencies and nonprofit organizations for a day of shopping, resources and entertainment, a press release announced.
Hosted by Notable Events by Janette, with Tutu Park Mall serving as co-presenter, the expo will feature local retailers, financial institutions and service providers. Organizers said the event is designed to connect residents and entrepreneurs with businesses that support daily needs while strengthening the local economy, according to the press release.
Vendors will offer candles, gifts, accessories, food items and solar power alternatives. Banking and financial institutions will provide information about becoming loan-ready for personal and business goals. Resources related to staffing, employment, estate planning, insurance and human resources will also be available, the press release stated.
The event will include do-it-yourself demonstrations, such as planter building for food sustainability, along with event planning inspiration, small local eats, music, entertainment and prize giveaways, the release stated.
Confirmed sponsors include Allied Rental, McDonald’s, Oriental Bank, The Community Impact Fund, The Party Shop, Keswick Insurance and the U.S. Virgin Islands Tourism Department, the release stated.
“This is truly an all-inclusive event,” said Janette Millin Young, founder of Notable Events by Janette. “I am so pleased with the early sign-ups from businesses and organizations that touch our everyday lives — from power and sustainability solutions, as well as employment and HR resources, to banking services that help residents and entrepreneurs become loan-ready. You can also learn how to create your own planters for food sustainability, win prizes, enjoy great music, and shop local — all in one place.”
“My firm plans these types of activities because we see the need to provide safe, fun, and educational platforms for our small businesses. Supporting local matters. Every dollar spent locally circulates more often in our community. This helps businesses to grow, employ more people, and reinvest in the Virgin Islands. We need to show up for each other,” Millin Young added.
The expo is open to residents, families, entrepreneurs and job seekers. A limited number of vendor and sponsorship opportunities remain available. More information is available at www.millinyoungconsulting.com/upcoming or by calling 340-473-6921.
