Breakout session at the Queens Business Expo presented by SBS. May we celebrate small Business Month by recognizing the entrepreneurs, innovators, and local businesses that strengthen our communities every day.

Directions and Parking:
​Public transit Access via the 7 Train or LIRR to Train to Mets- Willets Point. To attend, enter through Seaver Way.

Complimentary parking is available for attendees in the Citi Field parking lots. Enter parking lots through Gate 8, off Shea Road and park in Lot B/D.

The Queens Chamber of Commerce is committed to ensuring accessibility for all participants. Individuals requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this event should contact our office at 718-898-8500 at least two weeks prior to the event so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Admission:
Admission complimentary to the public with prior registration. Those interested in exhibiting should purchase an exhibitor ticket below, or reach out to [email protected] to coordinate your table. 

​Luncheon tickets must be purchased separately. 

Event Schedule:

11:00AM

11:30 PM - 1:30PM

12:30PM - 1:30PM

12:00PM - 3:30PM

Doors Open

Business Luncheon

​Breakout Session

​Guests Appearances

Exhibitor Information Packet:
Those interested in Exhibiting should reach out to [email protected] to facilitate their application.

​Exhibitors should download our information packet with all the details for load in and break down, here. 

​|  Speakers |​

​Business Luncheon​​

Hersh Parekh
Deputy Chief of Intergovernmental Affairs
​The Port Authority of NY & NJ

Hersh Parekh is the Deputy Chief of Intergovernmental Affairs at the Port Authority of NY and NJ. He leads a team that is responsible for relationship building, strategic engagement, and advocacy with elected officials and governmental partners at the local, state, and federal level, along with business, faith, civic, education, and other community leaders and stakeholders. Together, they work to ensure there is robust engagement, open lines of communication, and ongoing partnership with communities across the City of New York, especially those that host some of the country's most important transportation infrastructure facilities. Hersh also oversees the government and community relations portfolio for many of the agency's largest capital projects, including the $8 billion program to build A Whole New LaGuardia Airport, the $19 billion program to build A New JFK Airport, the $11 billion project to build a new Midtown Bus Terminal. His work has included negotiating to help advance projects and navigating regulatory approval and permitting processes, while also prioritizing the interests of the community and mitigating project impacts. In addition, Hersh serves as an advisor to Executive Director on intergovernmental issues, legislation, and policy matters.
Hersh has developed strategies and led efforts to ensure economic, workforce, and educational opportunities flow to the local community. These opportunities include M/WBE and local business contracting, technical training and capacity building programs for businesses, local hiring efforts, as well as STEM educational programming and scholarships for students. Under his leadership, the JFK Redevelopment Program set a NYS record with a historic $3.2 billion already awarded to MWBEs and more than $1 billion already awarded to local businesses across Queens, breaking a record previously set at the LGA Redevelopment Program, also under Hersh's leadership.
​Before joining the Port Authority, Hersh spent 4½ years working for the NY Governor's Office. He is a native of Queens, NY. Hersh is also an attorney admitted to the bar in New York and New Jersey.

Andrew Simmons
Owner & Founder 
A & S Rebar

With nearly three decades of experience in the construction industry, Andrew Simmons has established himself as one of New York's most accomplished construction entrepreneurs. As the founder and president of both Lashay's Construction & Development, Co., Inc. and A&S Rebar, Inc., he has built an integrated portfolio of companies that together deliver comprehensive construction solutions —from initial groundwork to finished structure.
Simmons founded Lashay's Construction in 1997 with a clear mission: to deliver quality construction with integrity and precision. Over the years, he grew the firm into a $15 million full-service general contracting, subcontracting, and construction management company. Specializing in heavy construction, concrete, and reinforcement work, Lashay's serves clients across transportation, infrastructure, commercial, and residential sectors throughout New York. Under Simmons' leadership, the company has earned a strong reputation for bringing complex projects to completion on time, on budget, and to the highest standards of safety and craftsmanship.
Recognizing an opportunity to strengthen the supply chain for his clients and the broader industry, Simmons founded A&S Rebar, Inc. in 2014. As president, he leads a certified rebar manufacturing and fabrication operation that provides estimating, detailing, fabrication, and delivery services. A&S Rebar plays a vital role in helping clients meet M/DBE participation goals, reflecting Simmons' commitment not only to construction excellence but to building a more inclusive and equitable industry.
Throughout his career, Simmons has been driven by a belief that great construction is built on great relationships. His approach, rooted in transparency, accountability, and genuine partnership, has earned the trust of clients, subcontractors, and communities across New York. Whether managing large-scale infrastructure projects or delivering specialized fabrication services, he remains hands-on and deeply committed to the success of every project that bears his name.

Dawn Kelly
Founder & CEO
​The Nourish Spot Inc.

Dawn Kelly is the award-winning Founder & CEO of The Nourish Spot Inc., a family-owned, certified MWBE and ACDBE fresh juice and wellness brand founded in Jamaica, Queens in 2016 with her daughter, Jade Duncan. What began as a reinvention after a 30+ year career in public relations and marketing has evolved into a trusted community hub—and an expanding airport concessions platform.
Today, The Nourish Spot's flagship Jamaica location is entering its ninth year. Kelly is an ACDBE and MWBE-certified airport concessions operator and joint venture (JV) equity partner with AVOLTA, with multiple deals in development across JFK and LaGuardia airports.
Her leadership has earned widespread recognition, including Microbusiness of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration (NY District), Distinguished Woman of the Year by NYS Senator Leroy Comrie, and Entrepreneur of the Year honors from Empire State Development and the Queens Economic Development Corporation. The Nourish Spot has partnered with the New York Liberty, Citi Field, Forest Hills Stadium, and has completed a four-year residency at the USTA US Open.
Kelly is deeply committed to economic inclusion and workforce development, mentoring Black and Brown women entrepreneurs and small business owners pursuing airport concessions. She serves on the NYC Mayor's Small Business Advisory Commission and the NYC Hospitality Alliance and is a member of Queens Chamber of Commerce. 
Before entrepreneurship, Kelly held senior communications roles at Prudential Financial, York College/CUNY, and AARP. A proud Howard University alumna, she continues to bridge wellness, wealth, and opportunity—locally rooted, globally positioned.

Jason Clark
Excutive Vice President
​The Division of Minority & Women's Business Development

Jason Myles Clark is the Executive Vice President of the Division of Minority & Women's Business Development. Prior to joining the Empire State Development, Jason served as Executive Director at Tech:NYC, where he focused on reducing the digital divide and building a tech ecosystem that works for all New Yorkers. Prior to Tech:NYC, he was a partner at the Black owned litigation boutique Hamilton Clarke, LLP, as well as First Attorney in the Harlem Regional Office of the New York State Attorney General Office.

​Jason is also the founder of DREAMChasers, a free tutoring and mentoring program that helps students from underrepresented backgrounds prepare for the New York City's Specialized High Schools Admissions Test. From 2018 to 2020, he served as President of the Metropolitan Black Bar Association, which is the largest of association of predominantly Black attorneys in New York. Jason is a proud graduate of Princeton University and the University of Michigan Law School. He resides in his hometown of Southeast Queens with his wife Nia and their two young sons, Eli and Khai.

| Sponsors and Partners |

ORGANIZER

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PARTNER SPONSORS

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GOLD SPONSORS

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ALUMNI SPONSOR

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SILVER SPONSORS

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BRONZE SPONSOR

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MEDIA SPONSOR

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FLORAL SPONSOR

| TICKETS |
​​

Register Here

Attendee Registration 
Complimentary

This ticket is only for general admission to the Business Expo floor. It does not include an Exhibitor Table or admission to the Business Luncheon.

Register Here

Early Bird Special - Exhibitor Table
Member Price | $695
Non Member Price | $ 795

5 luncheon tickets, pre/post event publicity sign and banner recognition

Register Here

Business Lunch Sponsor Exclusive  |  $20,000
Standard Price

The Lunch Sponsorship offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with attendees during one of the most highly attended and focused portions of the Business Expo. As the exclusive sponsor of the luncheon, your organization is positioned at the center of the event experience, with the ability to connect with guests in a meaningful and memorable way.

This sponsorship is designed for organizations looking to move beyond visibility and create direct engagement with a captive audience.

Includes:
Exclusive sponsorship of the Business Expo Luncheon
Opportunity to address attendees during the luncheon program
Verbal recognition by event leadership immediately prior to your remarks
Podium or stage signage featuring your organization during the luncheon
8 luncheon tickets for your team and invited guests, with reserved seating and branded table signage
Prime exhibitor table in a high-traffic location at the Expo
Opportunity to place branded materials at each seat or within the dining space
Option to provide a branded takeaway or giveaway for all luncheon attendees
Prominent logo recognition on luncheon signage and program materials
Inclusion in pre-event marketing promoting the luncheon, including select email and social media features
Premium placement in the digital gift bag distributed to all attendees
Recognition in post-event communications and event recap materials.

Register Here

Platinum Sponsor |  $10,000
Standard Price​

Ticket Capacity: 8 attendees
​- Prime Exhibitor Table, Promotions
- 8 Tickets to luncheon
- Full-page ad. Premium placement.
- Logo recognition

Register Here

Gold Sponsor | $5,000
Standard Price

Ticket Capacity: 4 attendees
- Includes Prime Exhibitor Table
- 4 Tickets to luncheon
- Full-page ad
- Logo recognition

Register Here

Silver Sponsor  |  $4,000
Standard Price

Ticket Capacity: 3 attendees
- Includes Prime Exhibitor Table
- 3 Tickets to luncheon
- Half-page ad
- Logo recognition

Register Here

Bronze Sponsor  |  $3,000
Standard Price

Ticket Capacity: 2 attendees
- Includes Exhibitor Table, Promotions
- 2 Tickets to luncheon
- Quarter-Page ad
- Logo recognition

Register Here

Exhibitor Table - Jumbo Free - Standing Unit
Member Price  |  $995
Non Member Price  |  $1,095

Matching Form: Exhibitors Registration

Register Here

Electricity for Exhibitor Table
Standard Price  |  $95

If you need electric power at your table you must reserve this ahead of time. Accommodations will not be made on the day of the event.

Register Here

Exhibitor Table
Member Price  |  $895
Non Member Price  |  $ 995

5 luncheon tickets, pre/post event publicity sign and banner recognition

Register Here

Non-for-Profit / Governmental Agencies Table | $645
Standard Price

Must prove that your organization is a registered non-profit organization.
​​Matching Form: Exhibitors Registration

Register Here

Journal Ad-Full Page | $799
Standard Price

Specs - must be high resolution pdf or jpg 
​
Dimensions 5.5"w x 8.5"h

Register Here

Journal Ad-Half Page | $599
Standard Price

Specs - must be high resolution pdf or jpg 
​
Dimensions 4.25''w x 2.75''h

Register Here

Journal Ad-Inside Back Cover | $1,000
Standard Price

Specs - must be high resolution pdf or jpg

​Dimensions 5.5"w x 8.5"h

Register Here

Journal Ad-Inside Front Cover | $1,000
Standard Price

Specs - must be high resolution pdf or jpg 

Dimensions 5.5"w x 8.5"h

Register Here

Journal Ad-Back Cover | $1,500
Standard Price

Specs - must be high resolution pdf or jpg 

Dimensions 5.5"w x 8.5"h

Register Here

​Business Luncheon Ticket 
​
​Member Price  |  $225
Non Member Price  |  $275

| Good Times From Past  Expos |

Click here to see the full gallery.

| Exhibitor Information |​

To:   All Exhibitors
Date: May 16, 2025
From:  Joanne Persad, Chief Operating Officer

We are excited to have you as an Exhibitor at the Annual Business Expo of the Queens Chamber of Commerce. Please review the items below to ensure a smooth, seamless experience on the day of the Expo, June 17, 2024. All exhibits must be set up by 11:30 AM.
Citi Field – Address 41 Seaver Way, Flushing, NY 11368
Load in Entry:
·        All vendors and staff coming to the ballpark for load-in, who will NOT need to wheel anything in, will enter through Gate 8 to park in Lot B/D and enter via the Seaver VIP entrance. Take the elevators up to the 5th floor for the Heineken Diamond Lounge.
·        Any vendors that are dropping items off that are coming in on wheels or carts must enter through the Loading Dock. Those vendors who are unable to carry items in will head to the Loading Dock, unload their cars, and the Event Crew will help bring their items on carts to the Heineken Diamond Lounge via the freight elevator. Vendor cars must be parked in Lot B/D immediately after unloading their cars at the dock. Map attached for directions to the Loading Dock.
Shipping:
·        If you need to ship anything in advance you may do so arriving three days prior to the event starting Thursday, June 11,2025. If you do decide to ship things directly, please let Joanne Persad know at [email protected] so we know what boxes to expect. Additionally, to keep boxes organized, please include the name of the event and your vendor name on the shipping label as shown below. The items can be sent to the following address:

Citi Field
Attn: Caitlyn  Leimbach (Majo)
"Queens Chamber – Vendor Name"
41 Seaver Way
Flushing, NY 11368

EXPO SCHEDULE FOR THE DAY:
 
·        8:00 AM- 11:30 AM    Vendor arrival and set up
·        11:30 PM – 4:00 PM  Expo open to the Public
·        4:00 PM – 5:00 PM    Load-Out
 
If you have any questions, please call Joanne Persad or Rae-Anna Persad at 718.898.8500

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 Vendor Rules and Guidelines

o  Vendors must secure and manage belongings they bring onsite for the event and are required to remove them at the end of the event.
o  If Citi Field Staff assist with load-in and load-out, Citi Field Staff is not responsible for any item damages in the process.
o  Any items brought into the ballpark via the VIP lobbies must be able to be carried. No carts of any kind are permitted in the VIP passenger elevators.
o  If you are using a cart, you must take the freight elevator and be escorted by Citi Field Staff. The freight elevator is accessible via the loading dock at Gate 9.
o  Vendor(s) shall move any furniture or Citi Field property at any time. Please contact the nearest Citi Field employee for assistance.
o  Vendor(s) shall drag any materials across the floor. Any damage to Citi Field property caused by any vendors may be subject to a penalty fee.
o  Union electricians handle all electrical work, which includes supplying power lines to your equipment, connecting equipment to outlets and installing signs or banners that are lightened. They will only provide power sources that are requested by Vendors at least 10 business days prior to the event date.
o  Please do not plug any equipment into an outlet unless such outlet is assigned to the vendor area. Please ask the nearest Citi Field employee for assistance when plugging in all items.
o  Vendors are responsible for clearing their own trash or putting it in the designated trash disposal area. CFH will assess a penalty charge if CFH is required to clean up any trash left behind by Licensee and/or its vendors.
o  Vendors are responsible to break down all cardboard, shelving, & display units prior to departure.
o  All signs must be weighted stand–alone banners. Vendors may not affix any materials to any surface within Citi Field. Tape, glue, staples, nails, hooks, etc. used to hang signage or materials are strictly prohibited.
o  No Alcohol may be brought into Citi Field for personal use.
o  Pallet jacks are strictly prohibited inside all event club spaces in the ballpark. Only hand carts are permitted inside event club spaces.
o  Open flame candles are strictly prohibited at Citi Field. Please use LED candles.
o  Vendors must bring all necessary materials (boxes, labels, tape, etc.) to ship out their items at the end of the event.
o  The following rules apply to all vendors that serve sample size servings of food/non-alcoholic beverages:

•  All servings MUST be sample size
• Vendor is fully responsible for providing any cooking equipment needed
• Vendor is fully responsible for providing any serving utensils needed (i.e. plates, cups, napkins, cutlery, etc.)

o  Pouring of alcohol sampling must be done by Aramark staff with pre-approved written permission from CFH.
o  The following rules apply to the use of fryers by Licensee or any of its vendors:

• The fryer must not be placed on carpeted areas or directly on any flooring. A protective layer is required between the flooring and the fryer.
• The fryer must be kept away from any equipment that uses an open flame, and the vendor must have a Class K fire extinguisher nearby for precaution.
• Grease must be disposed of in the designated oil dump at the ballpark. CFH can provide directions to the oil dump on the day of the event.

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If you have any questions about this event or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Rae-Anna Persad at [email protected]