Schedule

All times are Eastern

Day 1 – June 9

10:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Registration Desk Open

Registration desk will remain open through the end of the evening Networking Reception.

11:00 AM

Sponsor Exhibit Area Open

Visit our Sponsors during the event and learn about what they offer. Be sure to thank them for supporting military and veteran families!

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

General Networking

Networking time is available during the entire Expo. Get started when you arrive.

12:45 PM

Afternoon Snacks

1:00 PM

Welcome Message – Main Hall

Greetings! Join everyone in the Main Hall for the event kick-off.

1:15 PM

Get To Know Florida – Main Hall

Beautiful beaches, the nation’s 3rd largest veteran population, and a robust economy and entrepreneurship network — Florida combines an unbeatable lifestyle with limitless opportunities to work and operate a business. Meet veterans who are proof of what you can accomplish in the Tampa Bay region and beyond.

1:45 PM

It’s Who You Know – Main Hall

Networking is something not everyone is good at, but it’s something everyone must do. Simply attending the Expo will greatly expand your professional career network. While you’re here, learn additional proven methods to grow your network both online and offline.

Sell the Sizzle, Not the Steak – Breakout

Selling the benefits of your product or service to your customer is more important than simply listing off all the features. Veterans tend to be too technical or literal, when their marketing needs to show a solution to the customer’s problem. Reach customers with the right message using the latest tools and tips from marketing professionals and other entrepreneurs.

2:15 PM

Florida, it’s Different Here – Main Hall

The hottest industries and job markets in Florida might not be what you think, and we’re here to help you find out more. Also, discover veteran specific state benefits and learn about quality of life amenities for you and your family that make Florida the most sought after.

Knowns and Unknowns – Breakout

Sole proprietorship, LLC, franchise, acquisition, etc. – what’s the best for you and your business idea or plan? Strike out on your own, buy and improve an existing business, or research franchising opportunities. Learn about all the options available to you.

2:45 PM

Location, Location, Location – Main Hall

It’s an age-old phrase that survives the test of time. Find out what resources in Florida can help your veteran owned business succeed. Funding, training, professional networks and contacts? Our experts answer these questions and more.

Career: Line of Departure – Breakout

The last stop before the Career Fair the next day. Get prepared and learn how to stand out and make a lasting impression with employers that leads to interviews after the Expo is over.

3:15 PM

Career Fair Prep – Bayshore Ballroom

Receive one-on-one Career Fair preparation with staff from Veterans Florida and CareerSource.

3:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Veterans Florida Board Meeting – Harbor Room

4:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Exhibitor Move-In – Main Hall

5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Networking Reception – Main Hall

Open to all! Grow your professional network and meet speakers, sponsors, employers, exhibitors, and other attendees

Day 2 – June 10

8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Registration Desk Open

8:00 AM

Coffee and Morning Snacks

8:45 AM

Welcome Message

9:00 AM – 2:30 PM

  • Career Fair
  • Resource Fair
  • Battle of the Pitches
  • Sponsors Exhibits

12:00 PM

Afternoon Snacks

2:45 PM

Battle of the Pitches Awards

3:00 PM

Expo 2023 Closes

Thank you for joining us. Safe travels!