As preparations build for the 2027 African American Golf EXPO & Forum, organizers are inviting golf companies, destinations, equipment manufacturers, apparel brands, travel providers and service organizations to take advantage of one of the industry’s fastest-growing consumer and business networking events.
Scheduled to be held January 24-28, 2027, in Orlando, Florida, colocated with the PGA Show, the EXPO has evolved into a premier gathering dedicated to connecting the golf industry with African American consumers, entrepreneurs, golf professionals and community leaders. Exhibitors also benefit from exposure to PGA Show attendees while reaching a highly engaged consumer audience through the EXPO’s networking events, educational forums and exhibition space.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE EXPO CONTACT JIM BEATTY AT [email protected]
REGISTER FOR THE EXPO HERE
Founded to Expand Opportunities
The African American Golf EXPO & Forum was established in 2021 by Jim Beatty, President of Jim Beatty Golf Ventures and Executive Editor of the African American Golfer’s Digest. Beatty is widely recognized as one of golf’s leading advocates for diversity, economic inclusion and business development.
Before entering the golf industry, Beatty built a distinguished career as a nationally recognized economic development consultant. He has served on numerous golf industry boards and advisory committees, including the World Golf Foundation’s WE ARE GOLF Diversity Task Force, while also supporting organizations such as the Ted Rhodes Foundation, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America and several youth golf initiatives. His vision was to create an event that would introduce African Americans and other underrepresented communities to the many opportunities available throughout golf—not only as players, but also as business owners, suppliers, manufacturers, instructors, media professionals and industry executives.
“The mission of the EXPO,” Beatty has said, “is to promote the game, the business, the careers and the opportunities within the golf industry.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE EXPO CONTACT JIM BEATTY AT [email protected]
A Proven Track Record
Since its inaugural event in Atlanta in 2021, the African American Golf EXPO & Forum has expanded into several major golf markets, including:
- Atlanta, Georgia (2021)
- Charlotte, North Carolina (2022)
- Louisville, Kentucky (2023)
- West Palm Beach, Florida (2024)
- Orlando, Florida alongside the PGA Show (2025)
Collectively, the EXPO has served approximately 6,000 attendees, speakers, exhibitors and participants while generating an estimated $2.5 million in economic impact. More than 100 companies have exhibited, and over 3,000 adults and youth have participated in golf clinics designed to introduce newcomers to the game.
Each event has combined business networking, educational forums, keynote presentations, golf clinics, youth programming, exhibits and tournament play, creating a comprehensive experience that serves every segment of the golf industry.
Building Meaningful Industry Connections
Unlike traditional consumer golf shows, the African American Golf EXPO & Forum emphasizes relationship-building.
Educational sessions have featured executives from leading organizations including the PGA of America, PGA TOUR, Golf Digest, Titleist, Troon, the American Junior Golf Association, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America and numerous grassroots organizations working to diversify golf. Attendees have also explored topics such as supplier diversity, entrepreneurship, HBCU golf programs, golf course management, careers, technology and nonprofit development.
The event has become a meeting place where manufacturers connect directly with consumers, entrepreneurs meet potential investors, nonprofit organizations discover new partnerships, and golf companies engage with an expanding demographic of enthusiastic golfers.
Benefits for Exhibitors
For exhibitors, the EXPO offers access to a highly targeted audience actively seeking new products, services and experiences.
Companies introducing golf equipment, apparel, technology, travel destinations, instructional programs, financial services, real estate, luxury lifestyle brands and golf-related innovations gain valuable face-to-face interaction with consumers who are ready to engage with brands. Demonstrations, product launches and networking receptions provide opportunities to generate immediate sales while building long-term customer relationships.
An additional advantage is the event’s co-location with the PGA Show. Registered exhibitors enjoy exposure to both events, allowing them to maximize their marketing investment by connecting with industry professionals as well as golf consumers during the same week.
Strengthening the Golf Industry
The African American Golf EXPO & Forum reflects the growing recognition that expanding participation among diverse communities is essential to the future of golf.
The event creates new pathways into the game by encouraging participation, supporting minority-owned businesses, introducing young people to golf careers and helping established companies better understand and serve an increasingly diverse marketplace.
Industry leaders have embraced the initiative since its inception. The inaugural EXPO received support from PGA Golf Exhibitions, which recognized the event’s role in growing participation and creating new business opportunities throughout the sport. Sponsors and partners have included many of golf’s most respected organizations and brands, reinforcing the EXPO’s importance as a catalyst for industry growth.
Looking Ahead to 2027
The 2027 African American Golf EXPO & Forum promises to build upon six years of momentum by offering expanded exhibits, educational programming, networking opportunities and business development sessions.
For companies seeking to reach one of golf’s fastest-growing consumer markets while demonstrating a commitment to inclusion, innovation and industry growth, the African American Golf EXPO & Forum offers a unique platform where business relationships are built, partnerships are formed and the future of golf continues to evolve.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE EXPO CONTACT JIM BEATTY AT [email protected]
