Entrepreneurs And Innovators Take Risks Every Day, Visionaries See Potential Where None Exists….Yet

By: Gene Yarbrough

The affordable flying exposition kicked off at  Lakeland-Linder airport Nov 6 with expected modest attendance on the first day and increasing over the course of the event. 

However, attendance by the most serious players in the light sport aircraft, sport pilot, and new MOSAIC world showed commitment to this aviation space on par with the beginnings of SUN n FUN and Oshkosh. Over 40 exhibitors registered for the event, all but a few showed up (Two due to airplane troubles,  and one because they admitted they couldn't get their act together in time) showing the commitment by these companies and faith in the industry and future of light general aviation.

Talking with vendors to gain an understanding of why they felt this brand-new forum was a worthwhile investment for them was enlightening. Justifications ranging from "I don’t know why I came, I just wanted to see what it was all about,” to “This type of show is where my customers are,” to “We support and want to encourage the new MOSAIC initiative,” rang true from almost every single vendor on site. 

From a strategic perspective, coming to an unknown event with no historical backing is not a cheap endeavor but may prove ultimately a brilliant move for those with the foresight and vision to see potential (especially since these vendors will be getting priority for some new programs coming to SnF26). Vendors would attend the Affordable Flyers Exposition for several strategic business reasons, primarily focused on lead generation, increasing brand visibility, networking, and direct customer engagement. 

Key reasons include:

• Generate Qualified Leads and Sales: Expos attract attendees who are actively looking for new products and services, creating a pool of '(qualified)' leads. Vendors have the opportunity to make on-the-spot sales or collect contact information for future follow-ups, which is a highly effective way to expand their customer base.
• Increase Brand Awareness and Visibility: Participating in an expo helps a business stand out in a competitive marketplace and builds its brand image. An eye-catching booth and engaging presentation create a lasting impression on attendees, enhancing brand recognition long after the event.
• Direct Customer Interaction: Face-to-face engagement with potential clients builds trust and personal relationships that are difficult to establish through other marketing channels. This allows vendors to answer questions immediately, demonstrate products, and tailor their pitch to individual needs.
• Networking and Partnerships: The event provides a platform to connect with other vendors, industry professionals, and potential business partners or suppliers. These connections can lead to valuable collaborations and long-term business growth opportunities.
• Market Research and Competitive Insight: Vendors can gather real-time feedback on their products or services and observe what competitors are offering, their strategies, and emerging industry trends. This information is crucial for refining marketing strategies and product development.
• Cost-Effective Marketing: Compared to some traditional advertising methods, exhibiting at a targeted industry-specific expo can be a cost-effective way to reach a large, relevant audience.
• Establish Industry Authority: By showcasing expertise, giving demonstrations, or hosting educational sessions, vendors can position themselves as knowledgeable leaders in their field, further enhancing their credibility.
• Launch New Products: Expos are ideal venues for introducing new products or services to the market and generating immediate buzz and media attention. 

The new MOSAIC landscape is all the buzz in the aviation industry, those vendors displaying at Lakeland this November are without doubt the true  visionaries and soon to be movers and shakers in this open opportunity afforded us by FAA.

The next Affordable Flying Expo is scheduled for November 13-15, 2026.

FMI: https://affordableflying.net/