Buy Vet
Business Expo
Connecting Veteran-Owned & Small Businesses with Customers, Corporations,
Government Agencies, and Community Partners
Date
Friday, October 23, 2026
Time
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location
Columbus Convention Center*
Admission
FREE & open to public
*Columbus Convention Center: 400 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Who We Are
Sponsored by Brightstar Consulting and Think Veterans First, the Buy Vet Business Expo is a premier networking and business development event dedicated to increasing opportunities for veteran-owned businesses. This dynamic expo brings together entrepreneurs, government agencies, corporate procurement teams, nonprofit organizations, financial institutions, and community leaders who are committed to supporting veteran business success.
Whether you’re looking to discover exceptional veteran-owned products and services, build strategic partnerships, award contracts, or support local economic growth, the Buy Vet Business Expo is where business relationships begin. Come prepared to Buy Vet!
Join us in honoring military service through economic business opportunities. Support the Think, Shop, Buy Veteran First Movement! Every purchase makes a difference.
Why You Should Attend
Buy Vet Business Expo is an opportunity for you to connect with your community members. Whether you attend as a member of the public, a businessperson, or a buyer, the expo provides a platform to expand your business opportunities while networking with members of the Ohio community.
For Attendees
- • Shop unique products and services from veteran-owned businesses
- • Meet local and regional veteran entrepreneurs
- • Discover contracting and procurement opportunities
- • Network with business leaders and decision-makers
- • Learn about resources available to veteran-owned businesses
- • Support the military and veteran community through your purchasing decisions
For Veteran-Owned Businesses
- • Showcase your products and services to hundreds of potential customers
- • Connect with corporate purchasing managers
- • Meet government procurement representatives
- • Generate qualified leads and new clients
- • Build strategic partnerships and increase brand visibility
For Corporate & Government Buyers
- • Meet qualified veteran-owned suppliers
- • Strengthen supplier diversity initiatives
- • Build relationships with certified veteran-owned businesses
- • Identify innovative products and services
Expo Highlights
Veteran Business Marketplace
Corporate Procurement Matchmaking
Government Contracting Resources
Educational Workshops & Business Pitch Presentations
Reception for Networking
Veteran Resource Pavilion
Financial & Capital Access Experts
Business Awards & Recognition Ceremony
Our Mission
Our mission is to strengthen the veteran business community by creating opportunities for economic growth, strategic partnerships, and long-term business success. We believe that supporting veteran-owned businesses strengthens families, communities, and the local economy while honoring the service and sacrifice of those who served.
