Contractors Connect, a quarterly networking event for the building industry, is set to return on Thursday, Aug. 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. at AJ’s Grayton Beach. The event, sponsored by Builders FirstSource of the Emerald Coast, aims to bring together contractors, subcontractors and other specialists in the construction field.

• The cost to attend is $20, which includes one free draft beer, light appetizers and the chance to win door prizes. The event provides an opportunity for industry professionals to network, share insights and explore potential collaborations.

John Pugh, Builders FirstSource Emerald Coast sales manager, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming event, citing the success of the previous gathering in May.

“We were incredibly impressed with the turnout at the Contractors Connect event back in May,” Pugh said. “It was inspiring to see so many industry leaders gathered in one place, exchanging ideas and forging new connections.”

Contractors Connect, originally started by The Hive Creative Consulting in 2017, was revived in May 2023 by Beespoke Consulting after a pause during the pandemic. The May event drew more than 100 attendees from various sectors of the building industry, including contractors, designers, realtors, bankers and insurance agents.

Sarah White, principal at Beespoke Consulting, noted the strong demand for such networking opportunities in the area. “We were blown away by the support from the building industry for our May event,” White said. “It’s clear this type of event is needed in our area, and we are excited to continue to expand it with an event in Bay County this October.”

In addition to the August event, Contractors Connect has scheduled two more meetups in South Walton for Nov. 14 and Feb. 6, 2025. A Bay County event is also planned for October.

The August gathering will feature representatives from Contractors Connect Industry Partners, including Savi Flooring & Tile, Framer Jacks and Painter Jacks. Networking Sponsors Dunlap & Shipman, JK Design Workshop and Core Craft will also be present. AJ’s Grayton Beach continues its role as the long-time Venue Sponsor.

• Builders FirstSource will use the event to highlight its charity of choice, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, inviting attendees to contribute to fundraising efforts for those affected by blood cancer.

For more information or to purchase tickets, interested parties can visit www.contractors-connect.com. Additional sponsorship opportunities are also available.