From exploring artificial intelligence to pitching new business ideas and prioritising personal wellbeing, the 2026 Small Business Expo will offer current and aspiring business owners practical ways to strengthen their businesses and explore new opportunities.
The Expo, being hosted by the Cayman Islands Centre for Business Development (CICBD) will be on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hotel Indigo, under the theme “Island Innovation: Powered by Possibility.
”Premier and Minister for Financial Services and Commerce the Hon. André M. Ebanks MP will deliver the keynote address. Admission is free, and participants are encouraged to register at www.cicbd.gov.ky/expo. More than 30 local businesses will showcase their products and services, which will help operators to increase their businesses' visibility, meet potential customers and partners, and build valuable connections. A networking reception, the interactive Expo Passport Game and exhibitor giveaways will further encourage engagement, with opportunities for attendees to discover local businesses, exchange ideas and win prizes. Attendees can also look forward to the Youth Pitch Competition. Five finalists, selected from entries submitted by young entrepreneurs across the Cayman Islands, will present their business ideas to a panel of judges.
The top three winners will receive monetary prizes and business advisory support from CICBD, while gaining valuable exposure to the local business community. The Expo will feature two workshops and a panel discussion: • Healthy Leaders, Healthy Teams • Practical Strategies to Grow Your Business • "Demystifying AI & Automation for Small Businesses".
This panel discussion will explore accessible tools and practical applications that can help small businesses improve efficiency, enhance customer service, streamline operations and support growth. CICBD Director Thais Ducent says "recognising that business success is closely connected to personal wellbeing, we've decided to introduce a dedicated Wellness Room. Exhibitors and business owners will have access to wellness services, while educational sessions on wellness in the workplace will be available to all attendees." CICBD expresses gratitude to the partners who are helping to execute the Small Business Expo. The Central Procurement Office is the signature partner, and the supporting partners are Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage, MyRealtor and Cayman National Corporation Ltd.