What is SMBash?
In today's fast-paced business world, staying ahead of the curve is essential. Whether you're a small business owner, a budding entrepreneur, or an investor looking for the next big opportunity, the learning never stops. At SMBash, we understand that and embrace it by providing an opportunity for attendees to learn from like-minded professionals and industry experts.
The inception of SMBash was driven by a clear vision. It aimed to create a community where small business enthusiasts could come together, share knowledge, and foster growth. Its primary goal is to support the SMB and Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) community by providing a platform for learning, networking, and collaboration.
Empower yourself with knowledge, build meaningful connections, and stay ahead with SMBash.
Objectives of SMBash
The core objectives of SMBash are multi-faceted:
- To provide actionable insights and practical advice.
- To facilitate meaningful connections among attendees.
- To offer a platform for sharing experiences and learning from experts.
These objectives ensure that every attendee leaves the event with valuable takeaways and a renewed sense of purpose (plus, having some fun too).
The guiding principles of SMBash emphasize collaboration, continuous learning and inclusivity. By adhering to these principles, SMBash ensures that it remains a beacon of excellence in the SMB community.
SMBash provides entrepreneurs and business buyers a treasure trove of insights, networking opportunities, and practical advice. Conversely, for operators, it provides a platform to learn from the experiences of peers and stay updated on industry trends.
The SMBash Experience
A typical SMBash event is packed with activities designed to educate, inspire, and connect attendees. What can you expect from a typical SMBash event? Let's break it down.
Day Zero
After you arrive and get settled in, you can either relax by yourself or join us for an evening social. There is no content planned for Day Zero, just an opportunity to meet the other attendees, introduce yourself to the event staff, and get your headspace ready for two days of learning!
Day One & Two
Breakfast & Keynote Speaker
SMBash boasts a lineup of high-caliber keynote speakers. These industry leaders share their experiences, providing attendees with a wealth of knowledge. In 2024 our keynotes included an author and business coach, a NFL football player investing intelligently in his future through ETA, a HoldCo owner and serial entrepreneur, and a business owner and cannabis industry expert.
Each morning you will wake up, get ready, enjoy breakfast at the conference and then start your day with a keynote speaker. We invite speakers who cover a range of topics, from industry trends to entrepreneurial success stories. These speakers provide valuable insights and inspiration.
Break Out Sessions
Each breakout session focuses on an area of the Small to Medium Business and Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition journey. The session begins with the specialists invited to speak taking the stage. First, they share their knowledge about the topic assigned; maybe through power point or maybe just speaking. Some panelists accept questions throughout, and others prefer that the audience waits until they are done. These break out sessions offer deep dives into specific topics, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding.
The dual-track format is designed to provide customized sessions for different attendee profiles. Whether you're searching for new business opportunities or managing an existing one, there's something for everyone. Because our speakers are different year to year, even if the topic is the same, the experiences shared bring unique insight year after year. Searchers always need to learn more about insurance and taxes and operators love hearing war stories about the first days after buying a business.
These Interactive breakout sessions are central to the SMBash experience. Instead of being talked at the entire time, our panelists encourage questions. Experiences are shared by the speakers and the audience. It is not uncommon for panelists to be bombarded during breaks for conversations that lead to valuable collaborations, partnerships, and even friendships that extend well beyond the event itself.
In 2024 topics ranged from Taxes to Artificial Intelligence, from Coaching to Insurance. Have an idea for another topic? Send us a message.
Networking Opportunities
Networking is a significant part of SMBash. The event offers numerous opportunities to build connections and foster a sense of community among attendees. There are activities to choose from and happy hours to attend.
Dinner & Keynote Speaker
Attendees will end the evening with a great meal and another keynote speaker. Expect time for drinks, talking to other attendees and a good time.
One of the core promises of SMBash is its focus on actionable insights. Attendees leave with practical advice that they can implement immediately, making the event highly valuable.
Who Should Attend SMBash?
SMBash is tailored for a diverse audience, including entrepreneurs, business buyers, operators, and investors. But what are the specific benefits for each attendee profile?
Benefits for Different Attendee Profiles
- Entrepreneurs gain insights into business strategies and industry trends.
- Business Buyers and Searchers learn acquisition tips and get to hear real-world experiences from other business buyers.
- Operators share experiences, are introduced to new methods for operating and learn from their peers.
- Investors network with other like-minded individuals and reinforce their understanding of the ETA process.
Key Benefits of Attending SMBash
Access to Industry Leaders
One of the primary advantages is access to industry leaders and experienced business owners. This exposure provides attendees with invaluable knowledge and insights.
Networking and Collaboration
Opportunities for networking and collaboration abound at SMBash. Attendees can build lasting relationships and explore potential collaborations.
In-Depth Knowledge
The event offers in-depth knowledge and actionable takeaways. Every session is designed to equip attendees with practical insights that they can apply in their business searching, buying and operating.
Community Building
Community building is a core focus of SMBash. The event fosters a sense of belonging among attendees, providing ongoing support and resources. The entrepreneurial journey is filled with hours of alone time: searching, thinking, planning, implementing, analyzing, rinse and repeat. SMBash offers the opportunity to building lasting relationships and friendships, to meet people that have been in your shoes or people who need your advice or encouragement.
How to Get Involved
Getting involved with SMBash is straightforward.
Step 1: Register
To register for SMBash, visit the official website and complete the registration process. Early registration is recommended due to limited slots.
Step 2: Sponsorships, Speaking Opportunities, or Volunteering
SMBash is not possible without our amazing sponsors! An event like this takes time, effort, and money. Becoming a sponsor is a vote for building community. Each of our sponsors believes in the power of coming together to learn and grow.
Have you had an interesting ETA or SMB story? Are you an expert at SBA loans or SMB insurance? Were your first five attempts at buying a business heart-wrenching and full of lessons? Or...you name it, we would love to hear from you. Our speaking opportunities fill up quickly, and some preference is given to sponsors, so reach out now if you want to share your break-out session idea with us.
And finally, this year we are opening up volunteer opportunities to college students who are studying fields related to SMB and ETA. They can serve as greeters, ushers, or [share your idea with us]. Bonus - by volunteering they will also get to sit in on some breakout sessions and meet some amazing folks.
These roles provide additional exposure and engagement within the SMB and ETA community. Interested parties can reach out via the contact page on the website.
Step 3: Stay Connected
Stay connected with SMBash by following them on social media.
Twitter @SMB_ash
Instagram @smb_ash
This ensures that you receive all updates and announcements regarding future events.
Conclusion
SMBash is more than just a conference; it's an experience filled with valuable insights, networking opportunities, and community building. It brings together the best minds in the SMB sector, offering unparalleled learning and networking opportunities. If you're serious about taking your business to the next level, SMBash is an event you can't afford to miss. Register now and join us in Dallas, April 2-4, 2025.
Let's make the 2025 SMBash the best one yet!