Chamber Welcomes Thousands to Annual Business Expo

"This year's Business Expo was a major win," said Amanda Roberts, BACC Membership Engagement Specialist. "We're so thankful for our sponsors and the incredible businesses that brought the gameday energy. Over three thousand people came out to enjoy food, freebies, and fun. It's always exciting to see the community come together in such a big way."

More than 120 vendors participated in the expo, which featured interactive booths, live demonstrations, giveaways, and spirited displays filled with team pride. Guests enjoyed Taste of the Chamber — a showcase of Chamber-member restaurants — and a Kid Zone packed with games and activities all day long.

Myers-Davis Life Coaching earned the coveted Best Booth Award for their immersive hockey arena, complete with slapshot games, puck giveaways, and unique fan-first experiences.

The always-popular Mascot Dance-Off brought the crowd to its feet, with Peco Foods' Super Chicken earning the title of Best Dancer after a high-energy showdown. Other spirited contenders included Wally the White River Water Monster (Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce), a Pizza Slice (Bruno's Pizzeria), Ceebee the Money Bee (Citizens Bank), Seymour Money (First Community Bank), George the Dancing Chicken (Georges/OMP), Homer D. Poe (Home Depot), The Safety Pup (Independence County Sheriff's Department), The Fighting Scot (Lyon College), RAWK-it the RAWK Hand (RAWK Imprinting), Anita Coffee (Scooter's Coffee), and the Chef (Tavolo Italian Ristorante).

Michael Kelley of Peco Foods was honored with the 2025 Spirit Stick, recognizing his outstanding energy and MVP-level engagement with attendees throughout the day.

The 2025 Business Expo was made possible by presenting sponsor Citizens Bank, with additional support from Bad Boy Mowers, City of Batesville, Lyon College, Merchants and Planters Bank, Onin Staffing, Optimum, Peco Foods, RAWK Imprinting, Spartan Mowers, The UPS Store, and White River Health.

"We're proud to be part of an event that continues to grow each year," said Roberts. "Fan Zone gave our vendors the perfect opportunity to turn customers into fans—and they truly delivered. It's always more than a business expo. It's a celebration of creativity, community, and connection."