QUEENS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOSTS ANNUAL BUSINESS EXPO AT CITI FIELD, BRINGING TOGETHER THOUSANDS OF BUSINESS LEADERS AND ENTREPRENEURS

Thousands of business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders from across the borough gathered at Citi Field on Tuesday afternoon as the Queens Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Queens Business Expo, one of the borough’s premier networking and business development events.
The Expo featured more than 140 exhibitors from a wide range of industries, giving attendees the opportunity to network, explore new products and services, and build valuable professional connections. Guests also enjoyed food from more than 25 eateries featured in the Taste of Queens Pavilion and attended a panel discussion, “MWBE: Today’s Challenges – Tomorrow’s Victories,” focused on the evolving opportunities and barriers facing minority- and women-owned businesses in New York.
“Queens is home to one of the most diverse and dynamic business communities anywhere in the world, and this Expo is a reflection of that energy and entrepreneurial spirit,” said Tom Grech, President and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce. “Every year, we bring together businesses of all sizes to create connections, spark new opportunities, and support economic growth across the borough. It was inspiring to see so many people come together to collaborate, share ideas, and invest in the future of Queens.”
The panel discussion featured business and government leaders including Jason Clark, Head of Empire State Development’s Division for Minority & Women Business Development; Dawn Kelly, Founder and CEO of The Nourish Spot Inc.; Hersh Parekh, Deputy Chief of the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey; and Andrew Simmons, Owner and Founder of A & S Rebar. Panelists discussed the ongoing challenges MWBEs face, strategies for expanding access to resources and contracting opportunities, and the importance of creating stronger pathways for diverse businesses to grow and succeed.
Attendees also participated in informational sessions focused on the M/WBE certification process and accessing contracting opportunities in New York City. The workshop featured Michael J. Garner, Citywide Chief Business Diversity Officer, and David Coreas, Executive Director of Outreach and M/WBE Recruitment, who provided guidance on navigating certification and working with City agencies.
New York Mets legend Dwight “Doc” Gooden made a special appearance at the Expo, along with Mr. Met, greeting attendees and visiting exhibitor tables throughout the afternoon.

​​​​​Press release available for download, below.

---

5.20.26__2026_qc_biz_expo_post_event_release_final-2.docx
File Size:	13 kb
File Type:	docx

Download File

---