A LIFT for Area Businesses and FREE LUNCH FOR 200

West Palm Beach, FL, October 29, 2003 -- The Business Loan Fund of the Palm Beaches, Inc. will provide FREE LUNCH for the FIRST 200 callers who register to attend Biz-L.I.F.T. 2003. The day-long Business Fair and Expo will be held on Monday, November 17, 2003 from 8:30a.m. to 4:30p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 1601 Belvedere Road, West Palm Beach, Florida.

Hear THE TRUTH ABOUT FREE GOVERNMENT GRANTS directly from the Office of Congressional Representative Alcee Hastings. Learn how to access microloans, SBA loans, technical assistance, business plan preparation, networking opportunities, and other resources available for new and existing businesses in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Hendry Counties.

Local millionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist Frank McKinney will share his most successful philosophies during the keynote address. The Business Development Board will discuss how Scripps relocation to Palm Beach County may affect area businesses.

The event is being co-sponsored by The City of West Palm Beach, Palm Beach County, Comerica, Wachovia, U.S. Trust, Washington Mutual, Republic Bank, and Office Depot. Door prizes will be awarded. To RSVP, call 561-838-9027. Email msquire5@aol.com for information on registrations, exhibition, advertising, or sponsorship opportunities.