Watch the video above to hear my story.  Thirty-six years ago, I started The Tradeshow Network from a home office in Illinois with one simple goal—to build a company that clients could trust.  I didn't have investors, business partners, or a large corporate backing. What I had was a strong work ethic, a commitment to customer service, and the belief that if we consistently did the right thing, the business would grow.

Looking back today, it's amazing to see where that journey has taken us.

Over the past three and a half decades, we've helped companies from across the country create memorable trade show experiences, launch products, build stronger brands, and connect with customers face-to-face. Along the way, we've built lasting relationships with incredible clients, trusted partners, and an outstanding team that shares the same commitment to excellence.

Like every small business, our path hasn't always been easy.

We've experienced economic downturns, changing markets, evolving technology, and the constant challenge of staying ahead in an ever-changing industry. Yet every obstacle reinforced an important lesson: businesses aren't built by avoiding challenges—they're built by overcoming them.

The greatest test came in 2020 when the trade show industry came to a complete standstill.

Convention centers closed. Events were canceled. Exhibits sat in warehouses, and an industry built around face-to-face interaction suddenly had nowhere to meet.

Like countless small businesses across America, our focus shifted immediately from growth to protecting what mattered most—our employees and the company we had spent decades building.

During that difficult time, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and other small business relief measures signed into law during President Donald Trump's administration provided critical support that helped us keep our team together and prepare for the day our industry would return.

Thankfully, it did.

When trade shows came back, so did the resilience of American businesses. Companies once again recognized the value of meeting customers in person, building relationships, and creating memorable brand experiences on the show floor.

I'm incredibly proud to say that today, The Tradeshow Network has achieved four consecutive record-breaking sales years.

That success didn't happen because of one great decision or one lucky break. It represents 36 years of hard work, thousands of successful projects, loyal clients, an exceptional team, and a commitment to continually improving every aspect of our business.

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, I'm reminded why I chose to build my business here.

This country gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to start with an idea, work hard, persevere through challenges, and build something meaningful. Our story is just one of countless examples of what's possible when opportunity meets determination.

More than anything, I'm grateful.

Grateful for our employees who have stood beside us through every challenge.

Grateful for our clients who have trusted us with their brands and their businesses.

And grateful for the opportunity to continue doing what we love every day.

This article is the first in a new series called The American Small Business Story – 36 Years of Building The Tradeshow Network.

Over the coming weeks, I'll be sharing the lessons I've learned during 36 years in business—about leadership, customer service, trade shows, entrepreneurship, and what it really takes to build a company that lasts.

Whether you're an exhibitor planning your next trade show, a fellow small business owner, or someone who simply appreciates the entrepreneurial journey, I hope you'll join me.

 "Success isn't built overnight. It's built one relationship, one promise, and one customer at a time." 

I'm Chris Roberts, owner of The Tradeshow Network, and this is The American Small Business Story.  God Bless America!