LIVE | What is the HIA-LI Trade Show and Conference?

Yesterday, the Suffolk Credit Union Arena at Suffolk County Community College transformed into a vibrant showcase of Long Island’s entrepreneurial spirit—an arena where ambition, innovation, and community converged. The HIA-LI Trade Show, the region’s largest B2B event, brought together over 375 exhibitors and more than 5,000 professionals in a dynamic display of economic potential.

I had the pleasure of attending the event engaging in meaningful conversations about inclusive economic development, workforce innovation.

What stood out most was the incredible presence of locally-owned and family-operated businesses, many of which have been the backbone of Long Island’s commercial landscape for generations. These weren’t just companies on display; they were stories of family legacy, community pride, and hard-won resilience.

As I walked the aisles, I saw firsthand the power of these family-owned firms—how they innovate, collaborate, and drive local job creation. The industry pavilions—Technology, Finance, Healthcare, and Manufacturing—offered a snapshot of the region’s economic future, but the real story lay in the people: small business owners shaking hands, sharing ideas, and seizing the moment. These interactions underscored a simple truth: economic development isn’t just about infrastructure or technology—it’s about the relationships we build and the communities we strengthen.

Local Businesses in the Spotlight

Among the businesses that captured this spirit were:

• Mason Technologies, Inc. – A trusted provider of cutting-edge technology solutions, headquartered in Deer Park, NY.
• DIME Community Bank – A pillar of financial services for local businesses, represented by Lisa Tomasulo, Vice President and Branch Manager of the Melville branch.
• Atlas Asphalt – A family-run business specializing in paving and asphalt services, based in Islandia, NY.
• Waku – A health-forward, locally distributed tea brand focused on natural wellness.
• Jake’s 58 Casino Hotel – A landmark entertainment and hospitality destination in Islandia, NY, represented by Nora M. Gomez, Director of Hospitality.

The event’s programming was equally robust, featuring executive seminars, speed networking, and a thought-provoking keynote from Google’s Harris Beber on the transformative role of AI in modern business. The message was clear: the future belongs to those who adapt, collaborate, and innovate.

The HIA-LI Trade Show is more than an event—it’s a living, breathing marketplace where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are born, and the pulse of Long Island’s economy beats strongest.

As we move forward, our mission remains clear: to support and amplify the voices of local businesses, ensuring they have the resources and connections to thrive in an ever-evolving market.