6 Must-Attend Fall Events for Small Business Entrepreneurs to Learn and Network
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, fall brings an array of exciting opportunities for small business owners and entrepreneurs to learn, network, and grow. Attending industry events is a fantastic way to stay updated on the latest trends, gain valuable insights, and make meaningful connections.
While planning your journey, consider using Navan for seamless hotel and flight bookings. With exclusive discounts and business-friendly services, Navan ensures a hassle-free travel experience tailored to your professional needs. Unlock business travel deals and repurpose funds back into your business!
To help small business entrepreneurs find the best events for learning and networking this fall, we asked CEOs and directors for their top recommendations.
From attending the VRMA Annual Conference to visiting the Small Business Expo, here are six events where you can build genuine relationships and explore collaborative possibilities.
Attend the VRMA Annual Conference
“As the CEO of a vacation rental management company, I highly recommend attending the VRMA Annual Conference. I have attended for years and built invaluable relationships with industry leaders. Last year in Chandler, AZ, I connected with the founder of a housekeeping training firm. We collaborated on an employee development program that decreased turnover by 43% for our managed properties.
The VRMA curates world-class speakers on critical topics like marketing, operations, and customer service. One session revealed a new guest-screening system that decreased unpaid bills by 65% in its first month. The expo hall features cutting-edge tools for streamlining business.
Vendors I met at VRMA became key partners, drastically improving productivity. For networking, learning, and growth in the vacation rental sphere, VRMA is the way to go.”
Join the Digital Summit Series
Digital Summit 2024
“As the director of marketing operations for a digital agency, I highly recommend the Digital Summit conference series.
Last fall at their Phoenix event, I connected with the founder of an SEO firm. We ended up collaborating on an integrated campaign that drove a significant increase in organic traffic for a mutual client.
The Digital Summit curates world-class speakers and actionable insights. One talk revealed how to optimize Google My Business profiles for local SEO wins. We tested their tips and saw a 54% jump in calls and directions requests for local clients.
The exhibit hall is a great place to find cutting-edge tools. I've found vendors at Digital Summit that became key parts of our marketing stack. Put Digital Summit at the top of your list.“
Joseph Yarber, Director of Operations, Limestone Digital
Experience HubSpot’s Inbound Conference
“As the founder of a digital marketing agency, I highly recommend HubSpot’s Inbound Conference. I've attended multiple times and built relationships.
Last fall, I connected with an analytics expert. We collaborated on a campaign that increased organic traffic considerably for a client. The conference has world-class speakers sharing actionable insights.
For networking and growth, HubSpot’s Inbound is top of the pack. The connections and lessons will fuel your business for months.“
Joe Amaral, Founder & COO, Anthem Software
Explore the Digital Marketing World Forum
“For small-business owners looking to network and learn, I highly recommend the Digital Marketing World Forum. It's held each fall in locations like New York and Amsterdam.
As the founder of a digital marketing agency, I've found this conference to connect with other industry leaders and potential partners. Last year, I met another agency owner focused on paid ads—we ended up collaborating on several client campaigns that were mutually beneficial. The breakout sessions provide tactical advice you can implement right away.
One talk on “video marketing hacks” revealed how to boost views and shares with ephemeral content—we tested that with a client and saw a 37% increase in video completion rates.
The exhibit hall introduces you to new tools and vendors in a casual setting. I've found platforms at DMWF that became vital parts of our tech stack.
If networking and education are priorities, I highly recommend attending DMWF. The connections and takeaways are worth far more than the cost of attendance.“
Josh Cremer, CEO, and Creative Director, Redfox Visual
Participate in the Inc. 5000 Conference
“The Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala during the fall is among the greatest small-business events for entrepreneurs. The occasion is hosted by Inc. magazine and marks the fastest-expanding private firms in America. Consequently, it serves as a great platform where small-business owners can take lessons from renowned industry captains, attend helpful workshops, and engage in networking sessions meant to foster real friendships and collaborations.
Through this conference, important insights on issues such as scaling a business are provided. Thus, an entrepreneur who wants to grow his or her enterprise and network with professionals of similar ideas cannot miss it for anything in life.“
Sumit Raghav, Event and Exhibition Planner, NS Events and Exhibitions Fzc.
Visit the Small Business Expo
“One of the best business events in the fall for small-business entrepreneurs is the Small Business Expo. This event offers a unique blend of learning opportunities and networking. A few years ago, I attended the Expo in New York and was impressed by the range of workshops and keynote speakers. I vividly remember a session on digital marketing trends that provided actionable strategies, which I implemented to boost our online presence.
What makes the Small Business Expo particularly valuable is its focus on practical business growth. The event features a diverse array of exhibitors, from financial services to tech solutions, offering tailored advice and resources for small businesses. During the Expo, I had the chance to engage in one-on-one consultations with experts who helped refine my business strategy.
The networking aspect is also exceptional. The Expo facilitates meaningful connections through structured networking sessions and casual meet-and-greets. I met a fellow entrepreneur who shared insights on streamlining operations, leading to a fruitful partnership that improved our efficiency. The genuine, collaborative atmosphere makes it easy to build lasting relationships. For small-business owners looking to expand their knowledge and network, the Small Business Expo is a must-attend event.“
Rodney Steele, CEO, Dinsmore Steele
Upcoming Small Business Events in Fall 2024
Quick Tip: Keep all business and personal expenses separate!
1. RMA Annual Conference
Description: The RMA Annual Conference is a premier event for risk management professionals. It focuses on strategies and best practices in financial services and risk management. Attendees can participate in interactive sessions and network with industry leaders.
Dates: December 9-12, 2024
Location: Virtual
Website: RMA Annual Conference (RMAHQ) (RMAHQ)
2. Digital Summit Series
Description: The Digital Summit Series brings together marketers, digital strategists, and business leaders to discuss the latest trends and tools in digital marketing. The series features multiple events across the country, providing ample opportunities for learning and networking.
Dates and Locations:
Philadelphia, PA: September 24-25, 2024
Atlanta, GA: October 3-4, 2024
Boston, MA: October 29, 2024
Raleigh, NC: November 4-5, 2024
Los Angeles, CA: November 14-15, 2024
Dallas, TX: December 4-5, 2024
Portland, OR: December 11-12, 2024
Website: Digital Summit (Digital Summit) (Digital Summit) (Digital Summit) (Digital Summit)
3. HubSpot’s Inbound Conference
Description: Inbound is a vibrant conference hosted by HubSpot, focusing on inbound marketing and customer engagement. It features keynotes, breakout sessions, and workshops from industry experts, providing valuable insights into marketing, sales, and customer success.
Dates: September 17-20, 2024
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Website: Inbound Conference
4. Digital Marketing World Forum (DMWF)
Description: The Digital Marketing World Forum is a leading conference for digital marketers, featuring insights into content marketing, social media strategies, AI, and data analytics. It offers a platform to explore the future of digital marketing with global leaders.
Dates: October 25-26, 2024
Location: New York City, New York
Website: Digital Marketing World Forum
5. Inc. 5000 Conference
Description: The Inc. 5000 Conference celebrates the fastest-growing private companies in America. It's an excellent opportunity to learn from top entrepreneurs, gain insights into business growth strategies, and network with other ambitious business leaders.
Dates: October 31 - November 2, 2024
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Website: Inc. 5000 Conference
6. The Small Business Expo
Description: The Small Business Expo is the largest networking event for small business professionals, providing resources, insights, and strategies to help businesses grow. It's a fantastic platform to connect with vendors, explore new products, and learn from industry experts.
Dates and Locations:
New York, NY: September 19, 2024
Los Angeles, CA: November 14, 2024
Website: Small Business Expo
Attending these events is more than just a chance to learn; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in your industry, connect with like-minded professionals, and expand your horizons without the usual business pressures. You'll return with fresh insights, new connections, and renewed energy to drive your business forward.
Make the most of your experience by booking with a platform designed specifically for business travel, offering competitive discounts and seamless coordination of your travel arrangements. Whether you're seeking inspiration, education, or collaboration, these events provide the perfect backdrop for your professional growth.
Consider turning your trip into a “Workcation”, taking time for yourself during or at the end of any business event to be present and envision the adjustments and pivots you plan to make.