Job seekers, business owners and local agencies can connect next month at the Raeford-Hoke Chamber of Commerce Expo.

The Expo was put on hold due to the pandemic, but will return Saturday, May 14. The event will be held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in the county parking lot next to the county courthouse.

“We’re shooting for 20 different companies to show up and get their business out there,” Chamber of Commerce Director Liz McNeill said.

Raeford-Hoke Chamber of Commerce members can set up an information booth and offer employment opportunities, all for free. Local businesses that are not members of the Chamber of Commerce can pay a $25 fee to set up a booth.

The event is meant to help locals learn more about the types of businesses that work right here in Hoke County. It’s also useful as a hiring event for companies that need staff members.

“We’re hoping to connect the community and the businesses, especially if you’re looking for a job or the company is looking for employees,” McNeill said. “Some of the bigger companies are having trouble finding workers.”

Participating businesses can hand out information, give away freebies and talk to potential future employees.

There is a change from previous Expos. The event won’t be catered for lunch. However, McNeill said she’s working on having food trucks available.

Members of the community can come to the Expo for free. It is open to the public.

Businesses interested in participating can call or email McNeill at the chamber to fill out a registration form. The phone number is (910) 875-5929, and the email address is info@rhchamber.com.

The Chamber is also looking at events for later in the year, such as the Fall Festival and potentially bringing back the “Business After Hours” gatherings hosted by Chamber member businesses. Companies interested in hosting a Business After Hours can also contact McNeill at the listed contacts.