The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council has announced the date and theme of the 17th Annual Androscoggin Business to Business Trade Show.

With the theme, “Networking Locally, Connecting Socially—Get Connected,” this year’s show will be held Thursday, June 14 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston.

Considered by many businesses to be the most significant networking event in the state for its ability to draw nearly 200 exhibitors and an estimated 2,500 attendees, this year’s show will focus on how businesses have used social media to enhance their brand, while at the same time maintaining important relationships by networking and meeting face to face.

“Whether you use social media or you don’t, it’s here,” said Business to Business Trade Show planning committee member Stephanie Lewis of the LAEGC. “Nothing should replace meeting people and shaking hands. However, what we are interested in is how businesses have used social media to interact with customers to enhance their brand.”

Organizers have unveiled a new, dedicated website that allows exhibitors to register online while also taking advantage of social media mediums, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and RSS feeds in order to connect with exhibitors, attendees and sponsors.

“With the recession and the related sobering changes of the last few years, companies have had to rethink their business models and marketing strategy,” says Lewis. “Naturally, we would all like to have a 365-day presence in television, print and radio, but few of us can afford that.”

Organizers will also host some of the mainstays that have made the show successful year after year, including a giant Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce breakfast at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston and a Business After Hours featuring local restaurants.

“Ultimately, this show is about networking and shaking hands,” added Lewis. “As we move forward into another year, the Business to Business Trade Show gives us all an opportunity to network, talk and open up new opportunities.”

As has been the case for the past six years, booth exhibits are expected to sell out. Attendance will remain free for those presenting a business card at the doors.

For more information about exhibiting, please visit www.b2bMaineTradeShow.com, call Calvin Rinck at 784-0161, or e-mail crinck@economicgrowth.org. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

The Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council has organized the Business to Business Trade Show since 1995 with the help of a volunteer committee. For more information about the LAEGC, please visit www.economicgrowth.org.