Joplin, Missouri, January 4, 2026
The 33rd Annual Joplin Business EXPO is set to take place, providing a platform for local businesses to connect and showcase their offerings. Embracing the theme ‘A Century on Route 66,’ this event encourages community engagement and highlights Joplin’s entrepreneurial spirit. With over 100 exhibitors and 1200 attendees expected, the expo emphasizes both B2B networking and public participation, ensuring a vibrant local economic environment. Key supporter EaglePicher Technologies reflects the region’s commitment to innovation and job growth.
Joplin Ignites Business Innovation at 33rd Annual Expo
Joplin, Missouri, a city known for its resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, is set to host its 33rd Annual Business EXPO on January 21, 2026. This premier event, a testament to robust regional economic growth, serves as a vital platform for local enterprises and a significant driver for community engagement and development.
For decades, communities across America have understood that fostering a vibrant local economy hinges on supporting businesses and encouraging innovation. The Joplin Business EXPO exemplifies this ethos, providing a dynamic environment where companies can connect, showcase their offerings, and contribute to the broader economic landscape. Such initiatives highlight the importance of proactive, community-led efforts in cultivating an environment where small businesses and entrepreneurs can thrive, a model that resonates deeply with the spirit of Houston TX business and Texas TX entrepreneurs seeking similar avenues for growth and networking.
A Century on Route 66: Celebrating Heritage and Enterprise
The 33rd Annual Joplin Business EXPO will take place on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at the Downstream Casino Resort Pavilion. This year’s event embraces the theme “A Century on Route 66,” commemorating the 100-year anniversary of the historic Mother Road. Exhibitors are encouraged to infuse their booths with the spirit of Route 66, and attendees are invited to wear themed attire or bring memorabilia, adding a unique cultural dimension to the business showcase.
Organized by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce (JACC) and supported by EaglePicher Technologies, this expo consistently draws over 100 exhibitors and more than 1200 attendees annually, solidifying its status as the region’s largest business showcase. The event is further bolstered by key sponsors including Downstream Casino Resort and Zimmer Marketing, reflecting a strong community partnership that underpins local economic development.
Connecting Businesses and Consumers: A Dual Focus
The EXPO is structured to cater to both business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) interactions, maximizing opportunities for all participants. The morning hours, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, are dedicated to B2B networking, providing professionals with a focused environment for collaboration and partnership development. Entry during this period requires a business card.
Following the B2B session, the exhibitors’ showcase opens to the public from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This B2C segment allows community members to explore local businesses, discover new products and services, and engage directly with the entrepreneurial fabric of the region. Admission for the public showcase is $5, with children five years and younger admitted free, ensuring accessibility for families and fostering broad community involvement. This dual approach underscores a holistic view of economic growth, recognizing that a strong business ecosystem benefits both commerce and the wider community.
EaglePicher Technologies: A Pillar of Regional Innovation
A significant highlight of Joplin’s industrial landscape and a key supporter of the EXPO is EaglePicher Technologies. Headquartered in Joplin, this company is a recognized leader in defense and aerospace manufacturing. Demonstrating a commitment to growth and job creation, EaglePicher Technologies recently announced a substantial $20.9 million expansion in Joplin, projected to create 100 new jobs.
This expansion is supported by the Missouri Works program, a state-level initiative designed to help companies expand and retain workers by offering access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation. EaglePicher Technologies is well-known for its advancements in battery technology, energetic devices, and battery management systems, serving critical space, defense, and aviation markets. The company’s ongoing investment underscores the potential for high-tech manufacturing and skilled labor in communities that foster a pro-business environment.
Joplin’s Economic Vitality and Pro-Business Climate
Joplin’s economic landscape is characterized by strategic collaborations between the City of Joplin and organizations like the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. These partnerships focus on business attraction, retention, expansion efforts, and comprehensive workforce and entrepreneur development initiatives. Such coordinated efforts are crucial for sustaining robust Midlands economic growth and providing a fertile ground for businesses, echoing successful strategies seen in various growing regions including Houston small business communities.
The city has consistently demonstrated strong economic performance, with job growth averaging 1.1% annually and household income growth at 2.3% per year. Joplin was previously ranked #145 on Forbes’ list of best small places for businesses and careers, noted for its strong job growth (#139), quality of education (#110), and competitive cost of doing business (#91). These metrics highlight a favorable environment for investment and entrepreneurial ventures. The region also boasts a skilled labor force, with 62% of the population having some college education, and a low unemployment rate of approximately 3.8%, which is below both national and Missouri State averages.
Strategic Location and Diverse Industries
The Joplin Region benefits significantly from its strategic geographic position in southwest Missouri, at the crossroads of Interstates 44 and 49, and served by two Class 1 railroads. This infrastructure provides efficient shipping access across North America, allowing businesses to reach most U.S. consumers in under 12 hours. The region’s industrial strengths are diverse, encompassing logistics and distribution, advanced manufacturing, food solutions, professional services, alternative energy, and information technology. This blend of strategic location, skilled workforce, and diverse industry base creates a compelling environment for sustained economic development and positions Joplin as a noteworthy example of regional economic success.
The annual Business EXPO in Joplin, Missouri, stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and entrepreneurial spirit in driving economic growth. For the Houston TX business community and Texas TX entrepreneurs, observing such events offers valuable insights into fostering local innovation, strengthening networks, and celebrating the achievements of small businesses. Engaging with and supporting local enterprises, whether in Joplin or Houston, is key to the ongoing prosperity and vitality of our communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the 33rd Annual Joplin Business EXPO?
The 33rd Annual Joplin Business EXPO is the region’s largest annual business showcase, organized by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce and EaglePicher Technologies, featuring over 100 exhibitors and more than 1200 attendees annually.
When and where will the EXPO take place?
The EXPO will take place on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at the Downstream Casino Resort Pavilion.
What is the theme for this year’s EXPO?
This year’s theme is “A Century on Route 66,” honoring Route 66’s 100-year anniversary.
Who are the main organizers and sponsors of the event?
The main organizers are the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce (JACC) and EaglePicher Technologies, with gold sponsors including Downstream Casino Resort and Zimmer Marketing.
What are the different sessions for attendees?
The EXPO features a business-to-business (B2B) networking session from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and a business-to-consumer (B2C) public showcase from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
What is the admission cost for the public showcase?
Admission for the public showcase is $5; children five years and younger get in free.
Key Features of the 33rd Annual Joplin Business EXPO
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event Name | 33rd Annual Joplin Business EXPO |
| Date | Wednesday, January 21, 2026 |
| Location | Downstream Casino Resort Pavilion, Quapaw, OK |
| Organizers | Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce (JACC) and EaglePicher Technologies |
| Theme | “A Century on Route 66” |
| Exhibitors | Over 100 |
| Annual Attendees | More than 1200 |
| B2B Networking | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Business card required) |
| Public Showcase | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM ($5 admission, children under 5 free) |
| Key Sponsor | EaglePicher Technologies |
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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