Inaugural HUB Expo Set for April 23

UNC Charlotte’s inaugural Historically Underutilized Business Expo will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday, April 23, in the quad area across from the Popp Martin Student Union at 8838 Craver Rd.

More than 80 local women- and minority-owned businesses have registered to be a part of the HUB Expo. Industries that will be represented include design and construction, personal services, office-related products and services, I.T. services and food services. A full list of confirmed vendors can be found on the HUB Expo website.

“As a University, we strive to ensure that businesses, owned and operated by minorities, women and individuals with disabilities, have access to purchasing and contracting opportunities within our institution,” said Trever Swint, Charlotte’s HUB coordinator.

HUB certifications are for businesses that are 51% owned, operated and controlled by one of the following: minorities (Black, Hispanic, Asian American and Native American), women, disabled persons and socially or economically disadvantaged persons.

Learning sessions will be offered throughout the HUB Expo in the Popp Martin Student Union, Room 265. These include:

9 a.m., “Build Your Online Presence: Get Your Local Business on Google Search and Map,” presented by NC Grow with Google

10 a.m., “Building Partnerships: Networking Strategies for HUB Vendors,” presented by the Small Business and Technology Development Center

1 p.m., “Branding Basics for Small Businesses: How to Make a Big Impact with Low-Cost Tools and Resources,” presented by Katie Turner, marketing director for business services at UNC Charlotte

2 p.m., “Navigating Business with CPCC,” presented by Central Piedmont Community College
Food trucks including HotBoys Chicken and Marlie Q’s will be on site for food purchases, and DJ Hugo will perform from noon to 2 p.m.