Businesses from across Gwent can make new connections at the Torfaen Business Exhibition, which is being stage at Cwmbran Stadium on Wednesday May 17.

Entry to the event is free and businesses can network over breakfast, listen to inspiring speakers, and even create a free, short advert for social media.

Torfaen businesses will also have the opportunity to create their own two-minute promotional vox pop film at the exhibition. This will be on e a first-come first-served basis.

The videos can be used on social media and will be promoted on Torfaen’s business website www.southwalesbusiness.co.uk

They will also have access to a range of experts from Business Wales, Finance Wales, and Torfaen County Borough Council.

Dennis Ricketts, chair of Torfaen Business Voice, said: “We want to offer something a little different to your average business event so we have teamed up with a local production company to offer businesses the chance to create a free advert for their products or services.

“All too often businesses see only competition and miss opportunities for collaboration. By working together businesses can support and complement each other, allowing them to compete in markets beyond their individual reach.

“At the Torfaen Business Exhibition we want to create a relaxed environment where businesses can meet, network, learn and ultimately grow together.

“Entry and breakfast is free and we have some great speakers and plenty of trade stands to visit, so I would urge as many businesses as possible to come along and take advantage of this opportunity.”

BBC Wales’ business correspondent Brian Meechan will be key note speaker at the exhibition.

He has extensive knowledge of the UK business world, regularly interviewing the CEOs of international companies and small business owners alike. He will take to the stage at 10.30am.

National media consultant Miranda Bishop will give her top tips to help businesses in Gwent improve their use of social media when she addresses the event.

As well as running her own social media consultancy, Miranda was part of the highly successful Ignite team, putting on inspiring talks to thousands of people, and also co-founded Re:Program, a supportive series of events for women in the technology and digital sector.

At 28 she is one of the youngest women on the national speaking circuit.

The exhibition will run from 9am until 1pm.

Entry to the exhibition is free, although booking is essential, while stands start from £80. Entry and stands can be booked via www.southwalesbusiness.co.uk.