(Cochrane, AB) – Cochrane Small Business Week returns October 19–23, 2026, bringing together entrepreneurs, business owners, community leaders and partners for five days of learning, connection and inspiration. This year's theme, Rooted in Resilience, celebrates the adaptability, innovation and determination that continue to drive Cochrane's business community forward.
Small Business Week 2026 features more than 20 workshops, panel discussions, networking opportunities and speaker sessions focused on financial planning, marketing, artificial intelligence, innovation, leadership and long-term business growth. Events will be hosted primarily at The Station at Cochrane Crossing (360 Railway St. W.), with select sessions taking place at locations throughout Cochrane.
The week kicks off on Monday, October 19, with opening remarks from Mayor Morgan Nagel and community leader Reid Kimmet. Attendees will also hear from the Town of Cochrane's Economic Development team, who will share highlights from its upcoming 10-year Economic Development Strategy and provide an update on initiatives that support local businesses.
New for 2026, Small Business Week will feature its first-ever Fall Job Fair on Monday, October 19, from 3 to 6 p.m. at The Station. The event will connect local employers with job seekers from across the community. Delivered with support from Cochrane Immigrant Services, the Government of Alberta and the Alberta Chambers of Commerce, the Job Fair offers an opportunity for businesses looking to hire and residents seeking new career opportunities to connect, build relationships and explore what's next.
As part of the week's programming, the Town of Cochrane will host The Engine Room Showcase on Thursday, October 22, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at The Station. The free event provides an opportunity to meet local entrepreneurs, connect with mentors and alumni, and learn more about The Engine Room business incubator program, which supports businesses through mentorship, expert workshops, peer collaboration and dedicated workspace.
All events are open to the community. Whether you're launching a new venture, growing an established business or simply interested in supporting local entrepreneurship, Small Business Week offers valuable opportunities to learn, connect and celebrate the people who help make Cochrane's business community vibrant and resilient.
For a full schedule of events and registration details, visit the Cochrane & District Chamber of Commerce website at: https://www.cochranechamber.ca/2026-small-business-week/.
About Small Business Week
Small Business Week 2026 is organized by the Cochrane Community Innovation Team — a collaborative network of local organizations including the Cochrane & District Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures Centre-West, Cochrane Tourism Association, Innovate Cochrane, with the support of the Town of Cochrane.
Schedule of events | Oct. 19–23
| Date | Theme | Events |
| Monday, Oct. 19 | Rooted in community | • Open for Business! Cochrane Small Business Week Launch with Reid Kimmet and Mayor Morgan Nagel • Town of Cochrane Economic Development Update • Bringing Community to Your Business • Fall Job Fair |
| Tuesday, Oct. 20 | Foundations | • Founders Coffee (hosted at Sunny Side Up) • Know Your Numbers • What Banks Really Want: Small Business Financing Unpacked Panel Discussion • What's Your Next Step? Meet Pathfinder |
| Wednesday, Oct. 21 | Growth | • Steal This Idea: Marketing That's Working Right Here in Cochrane • Walk, Talk & Connect: Enjoy a Wellness Break • Choosing the Right Marketing Channels for Your Business • Finding Your Next Customers |
| Thursday, Oct. 22 | Adaptability | • Beyond the Prompt: Build Your AI Email Assistant • Analog Innovation for the 21st Century • The Engine Room Showcase • Creative Entrepreneurs: Ideas, Inspiration & Opportunities for Business and Tourism (hosted at The Common Works) |
| Friday, Oct. 23 | Resilience | • Coffee and Manifesting Your Future • Unlocking Your Superpower: Neurodivergence and Entrepreneurship • From Busy to Built, It's More Than a Job. It's Your Legacy • Building Without Breaking & Closing Mixer (hosted at Found Books & Shop) |
*All events hosted at The Station at Cochrane Crossing (360 Railway St. W.), unless another venue is listed.
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