Facebook is coming to Gainesville — for a day. The social media giant is holding a “Boost Your Business” event on Wednesday morning at the Gainesville Civic Center.

Registration and check-in are at 9:30 a.m., with the workshop running from 10 a.m. to noon.

It will include remarks on the importance of small business by U.S. Rep. Doug Collins, R-Gainesville; a presentation by a “small business expert” from Facebook and a small business panel question-and-answer session with three local small businesses sharing their social media “tips, tricks and suggestions,” according to a press release.
Meghna Mahadevan will be the Facebook “small business expert” speaking at the event.

The three local businesses are North Georgia Canopy Tours, Pendergrass Flea Market and Tap it Growlers.

The workshop is free, and registration can be completed at fbgainesville.eventfarm.com.

The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce is also a sponsor.

The event’s purpose is to help small business owners learn how best to use Facebook to market themselves, according to Devon Wardlow, manager of small business programs for the social network.

“It’s an excellent way to make sure your message is reaching the people you’re trying to reach,” Wardlow said.

Facebook hosts between 40 and 50 “Boost Your Business” events in cities across the country each year. The program began in 2011.

Wardlow said the workshop will stress the importance of making a business page and how best to connect with customers through Facebook.

She said “content is key” and Facebook offers businesses a chance to grow and reach new audiences in a global economy.