Empower. Inspire. Uplift.
The Hammer Deaf Expo exists to support, celebrate, and connect the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.
“Every challenge is an opportunity to build a stronger, more connected Deaf community. Together, we empower, inspire, and create lasting change.”— Matt “The Hammer” Hamill
Matt "The Hammer" Hamill
Founder & Chief Executive Officer
What We Stand For
- Community connection
- Deaf-owned and Deaf-supportive businesses
- Accessibility and inclusion
- Education and advocacy
- Opportunity for future generations
Empower. Inspire. Uplift.
The mission of The Hammer Deaf Expo is to empower, inspire, and uplift the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community by creating opportunities for connection, education, advocacy, visibility, and celebration.
The Hammer Deaf Expo is proudly supported as a nonprofit initiative under Signature Stars, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
From the Desk of Matt Hamill
Matt “The Hammer” Hamill
My name is Matt “The Hammer” Hamill. I was born deaf and grew up in Loveland, Ohio. Growing up, I went through education systems that did not always provide the academic support I needed. I was taught to speak by my family and did not learn sign language until the eighth grade.
I started wrestling at the age of six and found success at both the high school and collegiate levels. Although I earned a wrestling scholarship to Purdue University, I experienced difficulty integrating there and later transferred to Rochester Institute of Technology, where I graduated in 1999 with a degree in Electro-Mechanical Technology despite the educational challenges I faced earlier in life. I later became a professional MMA fighter.
Living as a Deaf person in a hearing-dominated world, my passion has shifted toward advocacy for the Deaf community. I have traveled around the world for speaking engagements with both hearing and Deaf communities, sharing my story and encouraging others to continue pursuing their passions despite whatever barriers they may face. I also conduct wrestling and MMA seminars.
Today, one of the most meaningful ways I advocate for the Deaf community is through The Hammer Deaf Expo. This event showcases Deaf and Deaf-supportive businesses, organizations, and advocacy groups while strengthening community connection and visibility.
I invite you to support this effort through sponsorship, exhibitor participation, or a monetary contribution that helps make this event accessible and impactful for our community.
With gratitude,
Matt “The Hammer” Hamill