The Women in Business Expo, created by Samantha Gernhart, returns for its third year on March 8 at the Marriott/Affinity Conference Centre in Brantford.
What started as an idea to create a welcoming space for women to connect, network, and learn has grown into the city’s largest women’s business expo and trade show.
“The idea came from creating an event that we do not have in our community or in the surrounding small communities where everyone felt welcomed,” said Gernhart, creator of the Women in Business Expo and owner of Clarity Marketing & Design.
“I wanted it to be a day and a neutral space for women to come together, celebrate, network and learn from each other. Holding it on International Women’s Day is perfect for that purpose and goal.”
Since its launch, the event has seen steady growth each year.
“We have hundreds of people attend this free event,” Gernhart said.
“Every year, more people apply to be guest speakers, and more businesses and non-profits want to be part of the trade show.”
The 2025 edition will feature six guest speakers, about 60 trade show vendors, and 100 swag bags for the first attendees through the door.
“Anyone who attends, I hope they listen to a guest speaker or two as we have yet again another amazing lineup,” Gernhart said.
“Some are educational sessions, and some are where the speaker shares her journey and experience.”
Gernhart credits the event’s success to strong community support. “Our local community is the reason it has grown so much over the last three years,” she said.
“There would be no event without people attending, supporting, sharing, and being part of the trade show and guest speaker sessions.”
The trade show will showcase businesses across industries, with some vendors offering retail products available for purchase.
Gernhart also highlighted the event’s partnership with Child and Family Services of Grand Erie (CFSGE), designed to give back to a local non-profit.
“Since I do not charge admission into the event, I wanted to find another way for a local non-profit to benefit,” Gernhart explained.
“My hope is that through our event advertising, people will learn about CFSGE and either bring items from their donation wish list or contribute directly to the organization.” CFSGE will also have a booth at the event.
The 100 swag bags, which have become a popular feature, are organized and paid for by Gernhart through Brantford Apparel.
“I allow anyone to donate 100 items to the bags. Some items come from our trade show vendors, but some come from people who aren’t even attending,” she said.
“It’s just another way to advertise and support local businesses. Last year, the bags were gone within 30 minutes.”
Looking to the future, Gernhart hopes to expand the event further, supported by more partnerships and sponsorships.
“Next year, I need to focus on local partnerships and sponsorships because they help grow and expand the event overall — from marketing efforts to decoration and signage,” she said.
“It’s Brantford’s only and largest women’s business expo and trade show, and I want to see it continue to grow.”
The Women in Business Expo is open to everyone, regardless of gender or business background.
“All are welcome! You don’t have to be a woman or an entrepreneur,” Gernhart said.
“Bring a friend or the kids and come check out this free community event showcasing amazing women in and around our community.”
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 8 at the Marriott/Affinity Conference Centre, 30 Fen Ridge Court in Brantford. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required.
Full event details are available at womeninbusinessexpo.ca.
