Tomorrow, Tuesday, August 12, Facebook’s Small Business Boost will teach small business owners in the Peoria area how to optimize their presence on the world’s largest social network. The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce will co-host the event, and Congressman Aaron Schock will make remarks and speak with attendees. 

“The most successful small businesses must learn to operate in today’s 21^st century marketplace where the strategic use of social media can make the difference between competitors, both locally and around the world,” said Congressman Schock. “The Facebook Small Business Boost event will provide valuable resources to entrepreneurs looking to increase their online footprint and more effectively utilize social networking technologies to grow their companies. I look forward to joining leaders in our community for the Facebook Peoria workshop and learning how this transformative digital platform can strengthen Illinois-based businesses in our region.” 

Facebook’s Peoria Small Business Boost will also feature a small business panel, three small business owners from the Peoria region who, having found success on Facebook, will share their own tips, tricks and suggestions. The small businesses on the panel are Cloud Nine Bridal Boutique, the Peoria Charter Coach Company and Running Central athletic store.  

This event is part of the Facebook Small Business team’s swing through Illinois this summer, which also includes stops in Rockford and Collinsville. 

How does Facebook partner with small businesses?

• There are more than 2 billion connections between local businesses and people who use Facebook.
• There are more than 30 million small businesses using Facebook to connect with customers.
• In an average week, there are over 645 million views of, and 13 million comments on, local business Facebook Pages.
• Facebook advertising reaches 89% of its intended audience, on average, compared to just 38% of online ads at large.

WHEN AND WHERE:  Peoria, IL – Tuesday, August 12 @ Embassy Suites – East Peoria, 100 Conference Center Dr., East Peoria, IL 61611

• Check In/Networking: 4:00 PM
• Program: 4:30 – 6:00 PM
• For more information and free registration: http://fbpeoria.eventbrite.com  

 WHAT: FREE Workshop On How To Use Facebook To Grow Your Small Business

 WHO: Representatives from Facebook, Rep. Schock, local business development organizations, and small business owners.