The Griffin-Spalding Chamber of Commerce held its annual Power Partners Entrepreneur Expo Thursday at Southern Crescent Technical College, providing valuable business-related information for those who already operate a small business and those who are considering starting a business.

After a one-hour panel discussion, during which local small-business owners shared the knowledge they have gained while operating a small business, the Chamber of Commerce opened the floor for its Entrepreneur Expo.

Representatives from a variety of national, state and local agencies were present at the expo to give visitors advice on what to consider — and what to avoid — when starting a business.

“Stay visible in your community. I believe that’s very important,” said Melinda Atha, executive director of the Butts County Chamber of Commerce.

Asked what start-up entrepreneurs have done that led to the failure of their small business, Atha said they weren’t as involved in the day-to-day business as they should have been.

“They open a business and depend on others to run the business,” she said. “I see businesses fail because they do that. They need to stay on top of their business.”

Another crucial aspect in succeeding as a small-business owner is knowing your community, said Adam Causey, executive director of the Downtown Development Authority.

“You’ve got to find the right building, the right location,” Causey said. “You have to be unique and promote your business.”

It is equally important, he said, to contact the city of Griffin and learn about the requirements as well as the incentives provided to those opening a business.