AABOA Expo to Bring Business Leaders, Cultural Connection, and Industry Insight to Roanoke, VA (April 16, 2026) — On May 13, 2026, more than 1,000 business owners, operators, and industry professionals will gather in Roanoke for a day focused on entrepreneurship, culture, and community. The Asian American Business Owners Association (AABOA) will host its 2026 Business Trade Exposition at the Berglund Special Events Center, bringing together leaders across hospitality, finance, convenience, fuel, real estate, and technology for a full day of education, networking, and collaboration. Where Business and Culture Converge. The Expo brings together a network of business owners and operators whose approach to entrepreneurship is rooted in long-term investment, family legacy, and community growth. AABOA has built its platform around these values, creating an environment where professional development and cultural identity are closely connected. “The AABOA Expo represents the strength of our community, where business growth and cultural identity go hand in hand,” said Nisha Patel, Board President of AABOA. “It’s where relationships are built, knowledge is shared, and entrepreneurs come together with a shared sense of purpose.” A Stronger Focus on Practical Business Education This year’s Expo introduces executive-level education sessions addressing real-world challenges facing business owners. Entrepreneur and hotelier Nayana (Nancy) Patel will lead a session on how artificial intelligence is shaping decision-making and operations, with practical strategies leaders can apply immediately. Alana Araujo of The Lampstand will present on the role businesses play in addressing human trafficking, focusing on awareness, prevention, and responsible leadership. 3735 Franklin Road, PMB 176 Roanoke, VA 24014 aaboaroanoke@gmail.com Alicia Meadows of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality will guide attendees through recent changes to the state’s Underground Storage Tank program, outlining key compliance requirements and steps businesses can take to reduce risk. Hospitality, Community, and Giving Back The event reflects AABOA’s hospitality roots, with complimentary lunch provided for attendees. The menu includes Indian dishes such as Chicken 65, Egg 65, Kachori, and Idli, offering a cultural touchpoint for the community. A blood drive will also take place onsite, giving attendees the opportunity to contribute locally. The day will conclude with a live raffle awarding $7,000 in travel experiences across three winners, among other prizes to be awarded. Attendees must be present when names are called. The event runs from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 13, at the Berglund Special Events Center, located at 710 Williamson Road in Roanoke, and is free to attend for all business owners. Registration is available at https://form.jotform.com/260274905011145. Learn more at https://aaboa.net/business-expo/. ### MEDIA CONTACT Heather Carnes, Founder and Managing Director, Carnes Agency on Behalf of the Asian American Business Owners Association (AABOA) aaboa@carnesagency.com ABOUT AABOA Founded in 2007, the Asian American Business Owners Association (AABOA) was built on a shared vision: to create a unified voice and platform for Asian American entrepreneurs in Southwest and Central Virginia. What began as a collective of 30 business owners has grown into a dynamic network representing hundreds of members across industries. Through advocacy, education, leadership development, and community service, AABOA works to protect and promote the long-term success of its members while amplifying the broader economic and cultural contributions of small business owners across the region. Learn more at AABOA.net