I did not want to just hold an ‘annual party’”, says Heckes. “I wanted a cause behind the event.
Albuquerque, New Mexico (PRWEB) May 22, 2014
The EXHIB-IT! 7th Annual Business to Business Expo demonstrates once again that a small idea can create big change. Started in 2008 as a ribbon cutting ceremony, when EXHIB-IT! expanded to its new headquarters at 6207 Pan American Freeway NE Albuquerque, New Mexico 87109, the annual networking event has grown from an initial 250 attendees to an expected turnout this year of close to 800 people. The networking event includes a Community “Pay It Forward” Silent Auction. All proceeds go to Dream BIG, a nonprofit that provides enrichment programs, activities and support for youth and adults. More than $8300 was donated to UNITE for the Forgotten Children of New Mexico last year, and more than $33,000 has been donated to various nonprofits since the event began.
DJ Heckes, CEO of EXHIB-IT!, took the lead in growing the Expo. In 2009 the “Pay It Forward” silent auction was introduced. Proceeds the first year went to Albuquerque Christian Children’s Home.
“I did not want to just hold an ‘annual party’,” says Heckes. “I wanted a cause behind the event. For years we have spotlighted a different nonprofit in the community every month on our website and in social media. ‘Pay It Forward’ simply expands on that idea. We select a nonprofit each year to run the silent auction, and that nonprofit collects all funds for the evening. We all celebrate the success when we announce the silent auction total proceeds live at the end of the event. ” Recipients from previous years have included Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Joy Junction, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
The B2B Expo has outgrown two previous venues and this year will be held at the New Mexico state fairgrounds. There will be 73 exhibitors from yoga studios and spas to universities and banks. New this year are two large screens displaying a live social media stream about the event. Track what happens at the event with #EXHIB-IT and #B2BExpoNM.
Collaboration Opportunities
The expo provides opportunities for networking and collaboration, as well as charitable support. ”I have testimonies from business owners,” says Heckes, “that the event is truly a strategic one and that it brings in the movers and shakers in the community whom you usually do not see networking.”
About Dream BIG
Dream BIG promotes social, educational, athletic, health and wellness and cultural development to strengthen maximum potential and opportunities for today's youth and adults. Each year, Dream BIG takes part in several events for Albuquerque youth, including Kutz 4 Kidz, BallHog 3-on-3 Tournament, and the semiannual Jam Dance.
National and New Mexico-based businesses who want to donate products or services for the silent auction, may do so here. Online bidding has begun.
Go to the Business to Business Expo
The EXHIB-IT! 7th Annual Business to Business Expo runs from 5pm to 8pm on June 12, 2014 at Expo New Mexico, Manuel Lujan B, at the Fairgrounds, 300 San Pedro Dr NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108. Tickets are $20 at the door or $15 before June 7th. Register here. Click for more information.