When we at the Alliance talk about helping businesses big and small, we’re not only talking about survival, but also elevation.

We want to help businesses both survive and thrive. Our toolbox is full of expertise, programs and contacts designed to help our members navigate the local, national and world economies, thereby creating a more competitive, more attrative region.

In other words, when the Alliance can help a business jump obstacles and find success, it fits perfectly into our mission of creating a prosperous economy and better future.

The newest Alliance tool is the Small Business Summit, the result of our growing partnership with Frontier Communications.

This first-time event is an afternoon of quality programming scheduled for 2 to 5 p.m. Thursday, March 31 at the Charleston Marriott Town Center.

Three panels of local experts will share tips that can accelerate you success. Each program will be repeated, allowing attendees to catch the two of most interest to them.

The topics include “Small Business Sources and Solutions,” including representatives of the Small Business Administration, Small Development Center and Main Street West Virginia; “Maximize Your Marketing Dollar,” focusing on how to get big results with a small budget; and “Business Continuity and Disaster Preparedness.”

The Charleston Business Showcase, one of the most popular Alliance events of the year, follows from 5 to 8 p.m. Attendees can network with hundreds of business owners and professionals and meet representatives of dozens of area businesses showcasing their services and products.

See what’s new in Charleston as you enjoy a spectacular reception hosted by the Marriott.

At the same time, the Showcase is a cost-effective way to market a business, build a brand and increase visibility.

It provides an exclusive opportunity to get your product or service in front of hundreds of area leaders. Held in conjuction with the ever-popular Business After Hours, the Showcase provides and upbeat setting from making personal connections with customers and clients and interacting with other businesses representing a broad spectrum of the community. Space is limited on a first-come basis. Registration includes table space and admission for two to Business After Hours.

The cost is $200 for members and $275 for future members through March 11. Those prices increase to $250 and $325 after that. For vendor registration information, contact RCavender@CharlestonAreaAlliance.org.

Small Business Summit and Showcase registration is $45 for members and $60 for future members through March 11, increasing to $55 and $70 starting March 12.

Admission to the Showcase only is $15 and $25 through March 11, then increasing to $25 and $35.

Register at www.CharlestonAreaAlliance.org/Events.

Finding success in business is not only about accouting for basic needs and making profits. It’s about rising above the competition and evolving. The Alliance is here to help, because success is our specialty.