Quarterly Articles & Economic Scene
Events, Expos & Trade Shows
2026 West Volusia State of the Region
April 17, 2026
Get the big picture—and the inside track at the DeLand & Greater West Volusia Chamber’s State of the Region. The event features a moderated panel with the mayors of West Volusia’s six municipalities, offering candid discussion on growth, workforce, innovation, and the impact of state legislation on our local cities.
Grants & Funding
Intuit QuickBooks and Mailchimp Small Business Hero Program – Deadline is May 15
April 17, 2026
The Intuit QuickBooks and Mailchimp Small Business Hero Program is a year-long initiative designed to celebrate and empower small businesses that invigorate and serve their communities. The program spotlights entrepreneurs who demonstrate courage, perseverance, and integrity by awarding three businesses each quarter.
Entrepreneur Resources
50 Ideas to Consider for Your New Business in 2026
April 17, 2026
Are you considering launching a business this year or looking to pivot your existing business with a new concept? If you think you have a great business idea that needs to be shared with the world, the best ideas are ones that have clear market demand, the potential for scalability and profit, and the ability to adapt to changing technologies and customer demands.
Disaster Preparedness
Hurricane Expo Returns April 18 at Daytona International Speedway
April 17, 2026
With the 2026 hurricane season less than two months away, Volusia County is giving residents a chance to get a head start on preparedness. The Hurricane Expo returns from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 18, in the pavilion area of Daytona International Speedway, 1801 W. International Speedway Blvd.
Business News & Resources
Florida Chamber Launches “Coolest Thing Made in Florida” Competition
April 17, 2026
Let’s get Volusia County manufacturers in the spotlight with the coolest products made in Florida. The Florida Chamber of Commerce and FloridaCommerce have launched the second annual “Coolest Thing Made in Florida” competition, opening nominations for a bracket-style contest aimed at spotlighting products made across the state.
Grants & Funding
Skip's $10K Spring Grant for Small Business
April 07, 2026
Skip is offering two $10,000 grants through its 2026 Spring Grants program to support entrepreneurs and small business owners. One grant is open to all eligible applicants, while the second is reserved for Skip Plus or Pro members.
Entrepreneur Resources
Get Inspired at the DSC Entrepreneur Networking Showcase
April 07, 2026
Daytona State College’s (DSC) School of Business invites you to attend the 2026 Entrepreneur Networking Showcase from 6 to 9 p.m. April 9 at the L. Gale Lemerand Student Center, room 119, at the DSC Campus in Daytona Beach.
Grants & Funding
SBA Announces International Trade Loan Program for Small Manufacturers
April 07, 2026
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced that small manufacturers will be eligible for enhanced support through the SBA’s International Trade Loan (ITL) Program beginning May 1.
Export Resources
Florida Businesses Set Record High Export Sales in 2025
April 07, 2026
FloridaCommerce and SelectFlorida recently announced that Florida businesses exported $78.9 billion of goods in 2025—increasing by $6.4 billion (8.9%) from 2024 and $21.6 billion (37.8%) from 2018—showing record-breaking growth and making this Florida’s largest export sales year in history.
Economic Scene
Gain Strategies to Increase Global Opportunities During Export Week 2026
April 07, 2026
In celebration of World Trade Month, the U.S. Commercial Service will host export sessions during the first week of May as well as throughout the month. The sessions, led by both private and public sector experts, will feature tradecraft programs and industry focused opportunities.
