MARSHALL TWP, Allegheny County — The Regional Learning Alliance building in Cranberry Woods was abuzz with business Monday as Butler County's three chambers of commerce held a joint business showcase.

The Butler County, Cranberry Township and Zelienople-Harmony chambers combined to hold the showcase that featured about 115 financial, educational, service and professional businesses from Butler County and surrounding areas.

Stan Kosciuszko, Butler County chamber president, said he and Marnie Repasky, Zelie-Harmony chamber president, and Kari Ambress Geyer, Cranberry Township chamber president, decided to have the joint venture after a successful meet-and-move luncheon earlier this year.

Vendors and business representatives found "opportunity" was the word of the day. The event, which ran from 1 to 7 p.m., attracted more than 1,000 business people.

Jay Verno, vice president of Hagan Business Machines, said it was a chance for his Butler-based business to network with other businesses.

"Maybe we're not making a deal today, but we have the chance to meet people and let them get to know us and what we can do for their businesses," he said.

Ryan Hayes, marketing manager for Gateway, an engineering firm that recently joined forces with Gray-Warnick, a Butler engineering firm, said the showcase was his opportunity to let people know what services the two firms can provide.

"We're in a transitional period and this gives us a chance to get everyone on the same page on what we can do for them," Hayes said.

The Regional Learning Alliance, which is made up of 13 learning institutions, featured representatives from area universities, colleges and institutes.

Tiffany Evans, the alliance dean for DeVry University, said business owners and employees stopped by her booth to learn about the classes that are offered at the alliance as well as look for employees.

"This is a great place for employees and their businesses because a lot of people don't want to travel into Pittsburgh to take a class and here, the parking is free," Evans said.