Washington, DC – The Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GWHCC) is proud to announce the return of its highly anticipated GWHCC Business Expo, taking place on Thursday, May 21, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center (Ballrooms B & C), beginning at 9:00 AM.
As the region’s premier event dedicated to connecting minority-owned businesses with corporate partners, resources, and growth opportunities, this year’s Expo promises to be one of the most impactful yet. With over 80 exhibitors, the event will bring together entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and decision-makers from across the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
Event Highlights
• Resources to start and grow your business
• Small Business Village
• Strategic business matchmaking opportunities
• Q&A Panel with Business Focused Industry Experts
• Workshops featuring Verizon and Events DC
• International Row – Explore global business connections
• Networking opportunities to connect with key industry leaders
• Pitch Your Biz Competition – Showcase your innovative ideas
• Executive Luncheon (Ticket Required) – Featuring an exclusive panel discussion on
"Breaking Barriers, Building Empires: Latinas Leading the Restaurant Industry"
As part of the GWHCC Business Expo, this year’s Executive Luncheon brings together a dynamic group of Latina leaders who are redefining the restaurant industry through innovation, resilience, and vision.
In an intimate setting with over 350 executives, panelists will share their journeys—from launching concepts and scaling brands to navigating access to capital, overcoming barriers, and leading with purpose. This conversation offers a rare and powerful look into the experiences of Latinas at the forefront of one of the nation’s most competitive industries.
Date: Thursday, May 21, 2026
Expo Opens at 9:00 AM
Executive Luncheon: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center – Ballroom B & C (Expo Floor) /
Ballroom A (Executive Luncheon)
Admission to the Expo is free, while the Executive Luncheon requires a separate ticket purchase. This year’s Expo is presented by Events DC and Verizon, with additional support from leading organizations including Amazon, DC Health Link, Pepco, Toyota, CareFirst, M&T Bank, JPMorgan Chase, DoorDash, PenFed Credit Union, and the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs, among others.
“This year’s Business Expo reflects our continued commitment to empowering businesses and fostering economic growth across our region,” said Nicole Quiroga, President & CEO of the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “We are creating a space where entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and community partners can come together to build meaningful relationships, access critical resources, and drive long-term success. As we continue to expand our impact, this event serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of our business community.”
Exhibitor & Sponsorship Opportunities
The GWHCC Annual Business Expo offers a prime opportunity for exhibitors and sponsors to showcase their services to more than 1,000 potential customers.
Exhibitor Booth Rates:
• GWHCC Member (Active Only): $500
• Government Agencies/Non-Profits: $550
• Non-Member/For-Profit Businesses: $750
On-site benefits include:
• One draped table with two chairs & one wastebasket
• Booth signage featuring your company name
• Boxed lunch for two booth representatives
• Access to workshops (while not working your booth)
Register as an Exhibitor or Sponsor at gwhcc.org/business-expo
Click here for more information.
● Date: Tuesday, April 29
● Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center - 801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW,
Washington, DC 20001 -Ballroom B and C | Executive Luncheon - Ballroom A
● Ribbon Cutting Ceremony begins at 9:00 am
● General attendance registration begins at 9:00 am
● Expo Floor opens at 10:00 am after the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
● Executive Luncheon from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm (check-in begins at 11:30 am)
● Pitch Your Biz Competition: Time TBD
● Workshops Ballroom C: Times vary
● Dress Code: Business Professional
● Parking and Transportation: We recommend taking the metro, a cab or uber to the
Convention Center. However, if you are unable to use those options you can park in
the nearest parking garage of your choice. Please plan ahead as there is no parking in
the Convention Center. GWHCC does not provide vouchers or parking
compensation.
● WHO: The Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is a 501(C) 6 membership driven organization, founded in 1976, that supports the economic development of the Greater Washington metropolitan area. The GWHCC membership consists of businesses and individuals who represent a broad range of segments of commerce in the Greater Washington area. Member’s diversity mirrors the growing local Hispanic and minority business markets.
