In an effort to shine light on local businesses, Lake Michigan College will host the third annual EXPOsing Greatness business expo from 4 to 7:30 p.m. May 9 at the college’s Bertrand Crossing campus in Niles.

Shelley Klug, executive director of Southwestern Michigan Economic Growth Alliance (SMEGA), said a maximum of 60 local businesses would be on hand sharing information about their products and services. All participating businesses are members of the Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce, Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce or SMEGA.

“It really is a great opportunity for people to network and find out about local companies you had no idea about,” Klug said.

The free event is open to the public and will include mini-seminars on topics such as QuickBooks, Facebook strategies and identity security. There will be prize drawings, a silent auction, giveaways, raffles and the EXPOsing Greatness photo contest (see sidebar for more information on the photo contest).

A cash bar will feature beer, wine and other refreshments. Attendees will also have the opportunity to sample free food provided by local restaurants and chefs.

An estimated 400 to 600 people attended the expo last year. Klug expects more people to attend this year.

“We think the general public will really like it because you are seeing a really wide variety of businesses,” she said.

Proceeds will go towards continuing the expo and a scholarship fund for area students to attend Lake Michigan College.

The expo is sponsored by United Federal Credit Union, Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce, Leader Publications, Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce, Lake Michigan College, SMEGA, Michigan Works! and Your Business Needs Fans.

For information, visit  exposinggreatness.com.