Every October, communities across Canada set aside a week to celebrate the people behind small businesses. This year, BDC Small Business Week runs October 19 to 25, 2026, with events taking place online and in communities across Alberta.

If you're running a business, or just starting to explore the idea, Small Business Week is a good opportunity to learn something new, meet other entrepreneurs, and recognize how far you've come. And you don't need to attend every event, or travel to a big city, to benefit.

What Is Small Business Week?

Small Business Week is an annual celebration of Canadian entrepreneurship organized by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC). It has been running since 1979 and takes place during the third week of October.

The week includes a mix of virtual and in-person events. Many are free, and you don't need to be a BDC client to attend.

This year's national theme focuses on the speed of business today: adapting quickly, using new tools like AI, and building resilience. For many entrepreneurs, especially those managing disabilities, long-term health conditions, or neurodivergence, "faster" isn't always the right goal. But the ideas behind the theme, such as working smarter, using good systems, and making the most of your energy, apply to every business. Take what's useful and leave the rest.

You Can Take Part From Home

If travel is difficult, or your energy is better spent close to home, virtual events are a great option. BDC is hosting three free webinars during the week:

• Finding growth in a faster world — Tuesday, October 20
• Smart AI investments that pay off — Wednesday, October 21
• Using acquisitions to accelerate growth — Thursday, October 22

All three start at 10 a.m. Mountain Time (12 p.m. Eastern). You can find details and registration on the BDC Small Business Week page.

If you followed our recent series on AI for small businesses, the October 21 session is a natural next step.

Events Across Alberta

Chambers of commerce and business support organizations across the province are also hosting events, including:

• Edmonton Chamber of Commerce: a full week of programming, including learning sessions, networking, and a #ShopLocalYEG celebration.
• Calgary Chamber: events that include a conversation on the mental and emotional realities of entrepreneurship, such as financial pressure, decision fatigue, and burnout.
• Business Link: events in Edmonton on October 20 and Calgary on October 22.
• Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce: its Business Awards of Distinction, presented throughout the week.

Many smaller communities mark the week too, with awards nights, breakfasts, and workshops hosted by local chambers and Community Futures offices. Check your local chamber of commerce or your nearest Community Futures office to see what's happening near you.

Plan Your Week Around Your Capacity

Small Business Week can offer a lot at once. A little planning helps you get the most from it without wearing yourself out.

• Choose one or two events that match your goals, rather than trying to attend everything.
• Check accessibility before you register. Ask organizers about step-free access, seating, captioning, quiet spaces, or other accommodations you need. Most are happy to help when they know in advance.
• Use virtual options when travel or large crowds would drain your energy. Many webinars let you keep your camera off.
• Ask about recordings if a live time doesn't suit your schedule.
• Prepare a short introduction about your business, so conversations feel easier.
• Plan recovery time after an event, just as you would plan travel time.

For more ideas on building business relationships in a way that suits you, read our recent post, Networking Without the Stress.

Celebrate Your Own Business, Too

Small Business Week isn't only about events. It's also a good moment to recognize your own progress.

You might:

• Share a post about your business and what you've built this year
• Thank your customers, suppliers, or referral partners
• Support another local business by shopping with them or leaving a review
• Nominate a fellow business owner for a local business award

Every step counts, whether you launched this year, reached a new milestone, or simply kept going through a challenging season.

October Is Also Disability Employment Awareness Month

Small Business Week falls during Disability Employment Awareness Month, which recognizes the contributions of people with disabilities to Canada's workforce. Self-employment is an important part of that picture. Entrepreneurs with disabilities create jobs, serve their communities, and build businesses that reflect their skills and experience.

Final Considerations

Small Business Week is a chance to learn, connect, and celebrate, and you can take part in whatever way fits your energy, location, and goals. One webinar, one conversation, or one thank-you note to a customer is a worthwhile way to mark the week.

The Rural Alberta Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program can help you set goals, plan your next steps, and build connections that support your business. Connect with an EDP Business Coach to learn more.