The Janesville Gazette recently published our latest Forward Thinking column, which spotlights one of the most anticipated community events of the year: the Rock Regional Business Expo.

A longtime staple of the Forward Janesville events calendar, the Expo returns Thursday, Feb. 5, from 3-7 p.m. at the Woodman’s Sports & Convention Center and brings together more than 90 local businesses, organizations and nonprofits under one roof. Thanks to the continued support of UW-Whitewater at Rock County, the Expo is once again free and open to the public, making it accessible to community members, employees, students, job seekers and entrepreneurs alike.

READ THE FULL FORWARD THINKING COLUMN HERE

In the column, we explore why the Expo is much more than a trade show. For participating businesses, it’s an opportunity to build relationships, share stories and spark new partnerships through face-to-face conversations. For attendees, it’s a chance to discover just how much talent, innovation and expertise exists right here in the Janesville area — often in their own backyard.

This year’s Expo also marks an exciting milestone with its move to the Woodman’s Sports & Convention Center, allowing for a more engaging layout, expanded exhibitor space, and room to welcome even more attendees. Past Expos have drawn more than 500 people, and we’re excited to see that number grow.

Forward Thinking is Forward Janesville’s monthly newspaper column focused on the initiatives, conversations, and partnerships shaping our local business community.

We hope you’ll join us Feb. 5 and experience the energy and collaboration that make our local business community thrive.