Beaufort County residents have the opportunity to learn about area businesses, as the annual Business Expo is set to launch Wednesday.

Organized by Beaufort County Community College and the Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce, the expo has a packed space with about 30 exhibitors coming to represent their businesses.

“We’ve collaborated with the Chamber on and off for a number of years,” said Lentz Stowe, director of BCCC’s Small Business Center. “It gives our local businesses an opportunity to make some contacts, maybe possibly make some sales.”

Along with the business exhibits, the expo will also offer seminars including: “What Can BCCC’s Small Business Center Do for You,” “10 Essential Skills of Successful Small Business Owners” and “Legal Tips 101: What Do I Need to Know for My Business?”

Stowe said this year’s keynote presenter is Mike Collins, president of The Perfect Workday Co., and attorney Will Mayo will also be leading one of the seminars.

Catherine Glover, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce, said another important aspect of the expo is the opportunity for networking.

While the event is not a job expo, Glover said it will help participants learn about the options out there.

“It’s a great way for businesses to promote themselves,” she said. “It is a great place to learn about local businesses.”

Glover said the event also offers members of the Chamber of Commerce a free lunch, starting at 11 a.m.

Flu shots, provided by Carolina East Medical Associates, are also available to participants of the expo.

Stowe said the expo is meant to be a learning opportunity for participants, and he is glad to have experts such as Mayo and Collins joining him in leading the seminars.

“It’s all about grassroots economic development,” Stowe said.

The Business Expo is a free event and open to the public.

Pre-registration is encouraged for attending the seminars. To register or for more information, call 252-940-3675 or email continuingeducation@beaufortccc.edu.