August 29, 2014, Orillia, ON – Small businesses looking to learn how to prepare for and exhibit at trade and consumer shows are invited to sign up for a free training opportunity scheduled for September 9th.

‘Achieving Success at Trade Shows’ is a unique seminar hosted by the Orillia Area Community Development Corporation (CDC) and the Business Enterprise Resource Network (BERN).

The event is aimed at new and small business owners and managers looking to learn the fundamentals of utilizing trade and consumer shows as a sales and marketing tool.  The seminar will cover areas such as what to expect at a trade show, setting goals, budgeting, booth design and set up and how to attract and engage attendees.

“Trade shows are a great opportunity to reach several potential customers within a short period of time and all in one place. But it’s not enough to stand behind a table and hand out business cards. You need to know ahead of time what you want to accomplish.  This workshop will provide strategies for success,” said Carol Benedetti of the CDC.

The seminar is scheduled to run on Tuesday, Sept. 9th from 9 a.m. until noon at Orillia Museum of Art & History 30 Peter South. To register, visit the CDC website at www.orilliacdc.com or call 705-325-4903, ext.101.

Businesses registered for the upcoming Orillia & Lake Country Expo will find the training valuable.

The 4th Annual Expo will be held Thursday, October 23rd in the Casino Rama Ballrooms. Space is limited and exhibitor space is 90% sold out.

For information on registering for the Expo, visit www.orilliabusinessexpo.ca  or call Ken Forbes at 705-329-1084.