In this episode of ElevatePolk, Dan and Chrissanne take a closer look at the vision behind the 2026 Central Florida Business Expo and why creating a major business experience right here in Polk County matters. They explore the opportunity that already exists within Central Florida’s business community, the importance of bringing people together in one room, and how the Expo is designed to help business owners and professionals discover new relationships, resources and possibilities. Chrissanne also shares what attendees can expect on September 30—from speakers and breakout sessions to networking experiences, Taste of Central Florida, student involvement, art, entertainment and other interactive elements that make the day more than a traditional business event. At the heart of the conversation is a simple idea: we may already have more opportunity, talent and resources in our own community than we realize - we just need more chances to see it and connect with it.
The Central Florida Business Expo is more than a trade show—it’s a chance to see just how much business opportunity already exists right here in Polk County and throughout Central Florida.
In this episode of ElevatePolk, Chrissanne takes Dan inside the vision for the 2026 Central Florida Business Expo and answers the question every business owner is really asking: What’s in it for me?
They talk about why Polk County deserves the kind of large-scale business experience we often travel to Tampa, Orlando or other major markets to find—and how the Expo is creating a place where business owners, professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders can discover new resources, build strategic relationships and invest in what’s next.
Chrissanne and Dan also dig into the realities of networking—especially for people who don’t naturally love walking into a room full of strangers—and why approaching the Expo with intention can turn one day into meaningful conversations and opportunities long after the event is over.
Plus, there’s a lot more happening than booths and business cards:
✓ A large-scale Expo Hall filled with businesses and resource partners
✓ Main stage speakers and breakout sessions
✓ A unique speed networking experience
✓ Taste of Central Florida, featuring samples from local restaurants
✓ The Squeeze Play Parade and a reminder that adults deserve opportunities to play, too
✓ Live art and creative activations
✓ Junior Achievement and Polk County Public Schools students getting hands-on exposure to business, networking, media and culinary careers
At its heart, the Expo is about putting a flag in the ground and saying: Look at what already exists here. Look at who we are in Polk County, We are the Heart of Central Florida.
The 2026 Central Florida Business Expo takes place September 30 at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland, with a VIP, sponsor and exhibitor Welcome Reception on September 29.
Learn more, get tickets and explore ways to participate at https://CFLBE.com