Being part of the Livermore business community certainly has its perks. Next week, the Livermore Valley Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Innovation Forum, a tech expo as part of their summertime luncheon series. Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery will be hosting the expo at their beautiful event center across the street from Campo di Bocce.

Many of our local businesses will showcase their products and services at the expo, and it's an excellent networking opportunity. Key companies from around the area will be on hand, including Topcon, Sybase, Chevron, Telepacific Communications and others to showcase their innovations. Other groups will include i-Gate and the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District.

I got to attend last year, and will be there again this year. This event has historically brought in more than 300 people, so it should be a lot of fun.

Another highlight this year will be the speakers. A panel of top Bay Area executives will discuss the Tri-Valley's potential as an innovation hub and why concerted regional efforts can lead to global competitiveness. The lineup includes some must-see speakers:

• John Chen, CEO of Sybase based in Dublin
• S. Shariq Yosufzai, VP of Chevron and President of the California Chamber of Commerce
• Rob Lamkin, CEO of Cool Earth Solar in Livermore
• John Dulchinos, CEO of Adept Technology, a Pleasanton robotics company

Can we become a recognized innovation hub? We have all the right ingredients to make it happen, and with the pool of talent, high tech and available resources right here, it can become a reality. What would that mean for your business?

The expo and luncheon program is Wednesday, July 27. The expo runs from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, and the lunch and panel discussion starts at 12 noon. If you'd like to join in, booths and luncheon tickets are still available through the Chamber's website or by calling them at 925-447-1606.