As the Brantford Business Trade Show prepares to return for a third year on January 22, 2026, its organizer says the event’s steady growth stands in contrast to the mounting pressures facing many local businesses.
Since its launch, the trade show has expanded annually in both attendance and exhibitor participation, bringing together a mix of businesses and non-profit organizations from across the community.
Sam Gernhart, owner of Clarity Marketing and Design and founder of the event, attributes the momentum to a continued demand for in-person engagement.
“Each year this event continues to grow, not only in attendance but also in the number of businesses and non-profits that sign up to network and promote their services,” Gernhart said.
A key development for the 2026 edition is the addition of the trade show’s first event sponsor.
Broadway Manufacturing, a Brantford-based company that opened in late 2023 and specializes in precision milling, turning and surface grinding, has partnered with the event this year.
“This year we have an event sponsor, which is very exciting,” Gernhart added, noting that the partnership allows organizers to expand the scope of the show.
“Their involvement helps us provide a more impactful event, fostering new connections and strengthening our local economy.”
The exhibitor lineup will again span a wide range of sectors, including financial services, cleaning and maintenance, home renovation, interior decorating, marketing, security and technology.
Gernhart said the balance of returning participants and new businesses continues to be a defining feature.
“We do have many returning businesses, but also new ones,” she said.
“It’s a great opportunity to network with other local businesses and organizations.”
Several additions distinguish this year’s show, including the introduction of onsite professional headshots through a partnership with a local photography business.
The service will be available to both attendees and exhibitors.
Free and open to the public, the trade show draws business owners, entrepreneurs, employees and residents interested in learning more about local companies and non-profit organizations.
Gernhart said it offers businesses a practical way to begin the year with increased visibility.
“It’s a great way for a business to kick off the new year, get their name out there, network and grow,” she said.
The event takes place against a challenging economic backdrop.
Gernhart said professional events in the region have struggled in recent years, with many experiencing declining registration or attendance, while uncertainty about 2026 weighs heavily on business owners.
“Many businesses are feeling very uneasy about 2026 and how their business will do,” she said.
The organizer of the Brantford Business Trade Show pointed to a recent wave of local business closures announced on social media as evidence of the strain facing small and medium-sized enterprises.
“Owning and running a business has not gotten any easier,” Gernhart said.
“It’s getting harder just to keep it going and survive, let alone grow.”
In that context, she said, events such as the Brantford Business Trade Show play an important role by encouraging residents to support local businesses and by helping owners build connections that may prove critical in the months ahead.
The Brantford Business Trade Show takes place Thursday, January 22, 2026.
