When people hear about entrepreneurship celebrations, they often picture something that isn't really meant for them: big-city start-ups, pitch competitions, and crowded rooms full of people who seem to have it all figured out. If you're running a small business from a rural community and managing a disability, long-term health condition, or neurodivergence along the way, it's easy to assume these events belong to someone else.

This November, two celebrations are worth a second look. Both are about widening the circle of who gets to be an entrepreneur, and both offer ways to take part that don't require a packed calendar or a long drive.

Global Entrepreneurship Week: November 16 to 22, 2026

Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) is a worldwide celebration of people who start and grow businesses. Each November, organizations in close to 200 countries host workshops, panels, networking sessions, and online events.

In Canada, GEW is led by Futurpreneur, and this year's Canadian theme is "Entrepreneurs Thrive Here." The week focuses on three themes: education, ecosystems (the network of people and organizations that support entrepreneurs), and inclusion. That last one matters. A big part of GEW's purpose is reaching people who have never seen business ownership as a realistic path for themselves.

To find events during the week:

• Visit the Futurpreneur GEW Canada page for Canadian updates and workshops.
• Browse the Global Entrepreneurship Network's GEW page, where organizers around the world list their events, including online sessions you can join from home.
• Ask your local Community Futures office or chamber of commerce whether they're hosting anything in your area.

Women's Entrepreneurship Day: Thursday, November 19

Women's Entrepreneurship Day is celebrated every November 19. It was launched in 2014 by the Women's Entrepreneurship Day Organization (WEDO) and was recognized in 144 countries in its first year. The day celebrates women who build businesses and encourages communities to support them, whether that's through mentoring, buying from women-owned businesses, or simply sharing their stories.

Here are a few Alberta opportunities around the date:

• Women's Entrepreneurship Day (WEDO) Calgary Summit: Tuesday, November 17, 12:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. MT, at Hotel Blackfoot in Calgary. This year's focus is using automation, AI, and digital tools to save time, which may appeal to anyone looking to reduce their workload. It's an in-person, ticketed event; see the event page for options. Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) is among the partner organizations attending.
• AWE webinar, "Unlocking Opportunity: How AWE Supports Alberta Women Entrepreneurs": Wednesday, November 4, 1:15 p.m. to 2 p.m. MT. A short introduction to AWE's programs, funding options, and learning opportunities.
• AWE session, "Sales Funnels Made Simple: How to Turn Clicks Into Clients": Wednesday, November 25, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. MT. 

You can find all of these, plus AWE's regular online loan orientation sessions, on the AWE events calendar.

If you'd like some encouragement closer to home, many of the entrepreneurs who have shared their stories on this blog are women building businesses around their real lives. You can read about ROSE Magazine, Clarity at Work Ltd., and Paws in the City.

Also This Month: The Side Hustle Summit in Hinton:

If you're in west-central Alberta, the 2026 Side Hustle Summit takes place in Hinton on Saturday, November 7. EDP is proud to sponsor this event, which is designed for people who are curious about turning a skill or idea into extra income.

Ways to Take Part That Fit Your Energy

You don't need to attend every event to benefit from these celebrations. Choose what works for your capacity this month. Here are a few options, from low effort to more involved:

• Watch one online session. Many webinars let you keep your camera off and watch at your own pace. Pick one topic that matters to your business right now.
• Celebrate your own progress. Take ten minutes to write down three things your business has accomplished this year. It might be your first sale, a new customer, or simply keeping going through a hard season. That counts.
• Support another entrepreneur. Leave a review, share a post, or buy a holiday gift from a local, woman-owned business. Small actions like these make a real difference to small businesses.
• Plan for one in-person event. If you'd like to attend something in person, check the venue's accessibility in advance and contact the organizer about any accommodations you need. Our post on networking without the stress has tips for pacing yourself, and our one-minute introduction guide can help you feel ready to talk about your business.
• Reconnect with your support network. GEW is all about the organizations that help entrepreneurs succeed. It's a good moment to check in with your coach, your local Community Futures office, or another support you've been meaning to contact.

Final Considerations

Global Entrepreneurship Week and Women's Entrepreneurship Day are reminders that entrepreneurship isn't limited to one type of person or one type of business. A home-based service in a small town, a seasonal market stall, or an online business run around medical appointments all belong in the celebration.

Take part in whatever way suits your energy this November. Even one small step, like joining a webinar or celebrating your own progress, can leave you feeling more connected and confident.

The Rural Alberta Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) can help you build a business that fits your life and connect with the wider support network around you. Connect with an EDP Business Coach to learn more.