(Cochrane, AB) – It’s that time of year! Cochrane Small Business Week is an annual celebration dedicated to recognizing and supporting the vital contributions of entrepreneurs and small businesses within the Cochrane community and learning along the way.
Held October 21-25, this week-long event provides a platform for local entrepreneurs and business owners to showcase their products and services, share their stories, network with peers, and gain valuable insights through events focused on leadership, new ideas, business sustainability, growth and innovation. While most events are scheduled at the Station at Cochrane Crossing, there are some of our local businesses that are opening their doors to help celebrate.
The theme for the week is Sustainability – looking at the sustainability of leadership and our founders, the sustainability of business models and plans, the sustainability of technology and innovation and of course, the sustainability and growth of Cochrane as a thriving community.
By participating in Cochrane Small Business Week, community members can learn about sustainability and innovation, discover unique local offerings, meet new people and support the hardworking individuals who contribute to the town's dynamic and thriving business landscape . Join us!
Small Business Week 2024 is brought to you by the Cochrane Community Innovation Team, including volunteers from the Cochrane Business Incubator, Cochrane Business Network, the Cochrane & District Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures Centre-West, Explore Cochrane, Innovate Cochrane and the Town of Cochrane’s Economic Development team.
For more information on Small Business Week in Cochrane, visit Urban Casual. To register for any events, visit Cochrane & District Chamber of Commerce.
| Daily Event Overviews | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| MONDAY, October 21 | Focus: Wellness | 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 12:30-1:30 p.m. 3:30-5 p.m. 6:30-7:30 p.m. | As an entrepreneur, your well-being is crucial to your success. Taking time to learn about and explore wellness resources—both physical and mental—can empower you to thrive. Prioritize self-care by dedicating time to recharge and discover practices that nurture your mind and body. Remember, investing in yourself isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential for sustainable growth. Make time for you and watch how it transforms your business! |
| TUESDAY, October 22 | Focus: The Fundamentals of Business | 7-9 a.m. 5-7 p.m. 5- 7 p.m. 7-7:45 p.m. 8-8:30 p.m. 8:30-9 p.m. 7-9 p.m. | Do you know your business inside and out but feel like you’re missing some core management or operational skills? Join other local business owners as we dig into essential business topics including finance and marketing to help sharpen your skills as a business owner and equip you with the tools and a new network that you need to grow your business. |
| WEDNESDAY, October 23 | Focus: Innovation | 12-1:30 p.m. 4:30-5:45 p.m. 6-7:30 p.m.
7- 8 p.m. | Innovation isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a vital force that can propel your business forward. Join us for interactive workshops, a special TEDx Talks style lunch session, and innovation panels designed to spark new ideas and strategies. Discover practical approaches to embrace change and drive growth in your organization. Let’s transform your vision into reality together! |
| THURSDAY, October 24 | Focus: Technology | 6-7 p.m. 7-7:45 p.m. 8- 8:45 p.m. | Curious how AI could help your business? Considering how to improve your online presence? Join us for an evening of inspiration as we peek at the future of business and explore practical tools to get started. The evening kicks off with an Incubator Open House where you’ll meet the founders of local startups currently in the Incubator and SMARTstart! |
| FRIDAY, October 25 | Focus: Future Forward | 12-1:30 p.m. 2-2:30 p.m. 2:45- 4:15 p.m. 4:30-6 p.m. | Cochrane is poised for a vibrant future, actively supporting economic development and growth through strategic initiatives. Join us for a key session focused on future-proofing your business and crafting effective exit strategies, designed to empower local entrepreneurs while meeting key leaders from the Town of Cochrane and hear more about the vision. Take advantage of this opportunity to network with fellow business owners and community leaders, and discover how Cochrane is fostering an environment for innovation and sustainable success. Together, we can shape a thriving future for our town! |
| Details | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| Dates | Monday October 21-Friday October 25, 2024 | |
| Theme | Sustainability & Business | “Small Business. Big Impact. Celebrating and supporting entrepreneurs, leaders and small business owners in Cochrane.” |
Event Hosts (Alpha Order) | Cochrane Community Innovation Team Organizations:
| Small Business Week 2024 is brought to the community through a new, collaborative team who are individually and collectively focused on entrepreneurs, business leadership, growth and sustainability in Cochrane. The Cochrane Community Innovation Team (list adjacent) is focused on supporting entrepreneurs, startup companies, business owners and innovators from ideas for business to growth or scaling of a business. |
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