2025 Small Business Conference

Name: 2025 Small Business Conference
Start: 2025-08-25T08:30:00-04:00
End: 2025-08-25T17:00:00-04:00
Location: Cocoa Civic Center

Schedule

Mon Aug 25 2025 at 08:30 am to 05:00 pm

UTC-04:00

Location

Cocoa Civic Center | Cocoa, FL

Presented by Kimco Real Estate
Hosted by the City of Cocoa and Historic Cocoa Village Main Street
Join us for a day dedicated to business owners and their teams. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of scaling your business, managing finances, or seeking networking opportunities, this conference is designed to provide valuable insights and connections.
This conference is open to all business owners and their teams, whether you're in the idea phase, just starting, or already established.
Tickets available at https://visitcocoavillage.com/events/small-business-conference
A Look at the Day:
8:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Registration and Networking Breakfast
Begin your day by checking in, collecting your conference materials, and enjoying a light breakfast while networking with fellow attendees.
9:00 AM – 9:15 AM
Welcome and Opening Remarks
Kick off the conference with a warm welcome from Kim Forbes-Stewart, Owner Kimco Real Estate, followed by an overview of the day’s agenda.
9:15 AM – 10:00 AM
Keynote Address: “State of the Space Coast’s Economy”
Peter Cranis from Space Coast Tourism Council and Trudy McCarthy from Economic Development Commission of the Space Coast will share insights on the latest trends in the economy & strategies to drive business growth in the current market.
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Q&A Session with Keynote Speakers
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain valuable advice from the keynote speakers and other experienced professionals.
10:15 AM – 10:30 AM
Coffee Break and Networking
Take a break, grab a cup of coffee, and continue connecting with peers and industry professionals.
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Workshop: “Recession Proofing Your Business”
An interactive workshop led by Jeannette Kraar from we VENTURE to explore strategies for preparing your business for economic challenges.
11:30 PM – 12:30 PM
Networking & Lunch
Attendees are encouraged to visit the tabletop vendor area, sponsor exhibits, and enjoy a catered lunch.
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Digital Marketing for Small Businesses – Kim Dickerson
Join us for an engaging and informative Digital Marketing Seminar designed specifically for small business owners. Learn how to effectively promote your business online using tools like social media, email campaigns, SEO, and digital ads.
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Breakout Sessions
Choose from the following sessions to tailor your experience:
Session A: Legal Tips for Business in an AI World – Andrea Willis
Session B: City of Cocoa CRA – Samantha Senger
2:30 PM – 2:40 PM
Afternoon Break
A brief pause to recharge before diving into the next session.
2:40 PM – 3:40 PM
Workshop: “Leading in an AI Empowered World”
An interactive workshop presented by Keith Nugent, Owner of Camberlion exploring the opportunities of an AI approach and avoiding pitfalls.
3:40 PM – 4:45 PM
Panel Discussion with Financial Institutions
Attendees will gain direct insights and practical advice from a diverse panel of seasoned financial professionals. Moderated by Launch Credit Union, attendees will have the chance to ask questions and engage in meaningful dialogue.
4:45 PM – 5:00 PM
Closing Remarks and Thank You
Wrap up the conference with a summary of key takeaways and express gratitude to attendees, speakers, and sponsors.
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
HAPPY HOUR
Join us at the Community Woman’s Club in Historic Cocoa Village, for food, drinks and the opportunity to network with small business owners.
For more information, sponsorship, and vendor opportunities, please go to https://visitcocoavillage.com/events/small-business-conference