The Greater EMC Chamber’s EXPO 2025 was nothing short of extraordinary, bringing together businesses, community members, and new faces for an afternoon of networking, learning, and celebration. Held at The Atrium Center on Thursday, September 18 from 2–6 p.m., the event showcased 29 exhibitors and welcomed more than 200 attendees—outpacing last year’s numbers and setting the tone for an even brighter future. Diane Bullock with Transglobal Payment Systems told us “this was the best EXPO” and was ecstatic that she “met so many new people.” For members like Diane, this is remarkable since she has been a member for many years.
 

^{The Atrium Center was transformed into a hub for networking and connection with 29 exhibitor booths}

This year’s success was made possible through the generous support of our Presenting Sponsors—Community Resource Credit Union, Hallmark Mitigation & Construction, Comcast, and Memorial Hermann Medical Group. Their commitment to our Chamber and community elevated the entire event, and we are deeply grateful for their partnership.
 
We also extend heartfelt thanks to our Supporting Sponsors—SHSU Small Business Development Center, Visibly Illustrated, Community Impact, and Dynamic Entertainment Productions—whose contributions helped bring EXPO 2025 to life. Special recognition goes to Zulees Executive Gifts, our Hospitality Suite Sponsor, for creating a warm and inviting gathering space, and to The Atrium Center, our Facility Sponsor, for providing such a wonderful venue. We are also thankful for EMCID, whose ongoing support ensures the Chamber can continue to provide high-quality events that serve our members and our community.

The energy at EXPO 2025 was infectious. Guests enjoyed a vibrant playlist and outstanding presentations, including Beth Guide of Vertical Web, who offered invaluable insights on AI and marketing strategies, and Mark Linabury of the Greater EMC Chamber, who shared an inspiring vision for the future of our region.
 

^{Beth Guide, Owner of Vertical Web, offers valuable insights on AI and marketing strategies}

 Light bites from Hometown Chef Catering Co., a cash bar in the hospitality suite, and an engaging raffle added to the fun, with six Chamber Memberships awarded—among them, a Platinum Investor Level Membership, proudly won by Warren Porter, owner of Porters of Porter.


<sup>Light bites from The Hometown Chef included Fajita Chicken Skewers with a Jalapeno Crema and Mexican-Style Elote


Bar services from The Hometown Chef were open from 4pm until 6pm</sup>

Exhibitors gave their all, with some rotating teams throughout the day and others holding down their booths solo. No matter the approach, everyone had the opportunity to connect, engage, and complete “Booth Visit Bingo” for raffle entry, encouraging meaningful conversations and new connections. Splendora ISD Foundation’s Katie Key shared that “every conversation felt like a chance to connect, inspire, and showcase the impact we’re making for Splendora ISD.” It’s comments like Katie’s that let us know how meaningful our annual EXPO is. Key’s excitement was evident when adding “We will be exhibitors again next year!”

 

<sup>Hallmark Mitigation & Construction educates attendees on their variety of mitigation and construction services
 

Visibly Illustrated showcases their variety of photography and videography services to attendees</sup>
 
As always, the true highlight of EXPO 2025 was the people—the many Chamber members who came to support, the businesses who exhibited, and the new faces who wanted to see firsthand what the Greater EMC Chamber has to offer. The buzz in the room was undeniable: attendees remarked on the positive energy, the quality of connections, and their eagerness to get involved next year.


<sup>Zulees Executive Gifts proudly creates an upscale, VIP experience with a Hospitality Suite


New faces are warmly welcomed by members and staff</sup>

The Highlands Visitor Center Manager, Tess Farrand, enthusiastically told us that “Participating in the Business EXPO was a wonderful Experience [and that their] team enjoyed sharing updates on current and future amenities in [their] community.”  EXPO is more than just an event; it’s a reflection of our community’s spirit, growth, and collaboration. We are proud to host it annually, and with such strong momentum, we are already looking forward to EXPO 2026.


Evangeline Williams with Staging Maison excitedly accepts her free membership, won in the Booth Visit Bingo drawing

Watch our favorite moments from EXPO 2025 here!