More than 300 businesses interested in reaching South Florida’s LGBT community will be participating in the third annual Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce’s (MDGLCC) Explore/EXPO on Saturday, October 23, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

The event, which is free to the public, will coincide with the chamber’s second annual Taste of Miami, a VIP fundraiser to benefit the Chamber Foundation’s scholarship program for area youth.

Taste of Miami spotlights MDGLCC member restaurants who will offer their signature tastings.  In addition, guests are encouraged to visit the stylish Grey Goose Vodka Lounge.  Taste of Miami takes place after Explore/EXPO, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., also at the convention center.  Tickets for that event are $45 in advance and $60 at the door.

“Explore/EXPO is a wonderful way for businesses that support the LGBT community to connect one-on-one with consumers who are interested in doing business with LGBT and LGBT-friendly companies,” said Steve Adkins, president of the MDGLCC.  “Visitors to Explore/EXPO will have the opportunity to chat with representatives from advocacy groups, entertainment venues, financial services companies, health services, non-profits, real estate companies, retailers and many more.

According to a recent report by Witeck-Combs Communications, there are 180,000 residents of Miami-Dade County who self-identify as part of the LGBT community and represent an estimated $8 billion in annual buyer power.

For more information on Explore/EXPO or Taste of Miami, visit Gogaymiamiexplore.com.