Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission

Young Professional Coffee Social
2025-12-10 08:00 - 09:30 (America/Vancouver) | Fairfield Inn by Marriot, 3460 Carrington Rd,, West Kelowna, BC, V4T 3C1, Canada
We are excited to collaborate with The Greater Westside Board of Trade to host a coffee social at Fairfield Inn by Marriot on December 10th from 8:00 to 9:30 am for a morning of networking and socializing.
Enjoy fresh coffee, light networking, and great company surrounded by the beauty of Paynter’s orchard. Whether you’re a young professional, a community connector, or just love a good morning vibe—this event is for you!
Here’s What You Need to Know:
No Entrance Fee: Joining us is free! Coffee and snacks will be provided.
Come When You Can: Drop by anytime between 8:00 – 9:30 am. Stay for a quick chat or linger longer over your coffee — the pace is yours to set.
Event Details:

Date: December 10th, 2025
Time: Drop in anytime from 8:00 – 9 :30 am
Location: Fairfield Inn by Marriot, 3460 Carrington Rd, West Kelowna, BC V4T 3C1

Register on Eventbrite – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/young-professional-coffee-social-tickets-1968809585469?aff=oddtdtcreator
Who’s welcome?

Just moved to town? Perfect, meet your first friends here!
Grew up in the Okanagan? Be the guide for newcomers.
New to the business world or a seasoned professional? Share stories and insights.
Whether you’re under forty, over forty (and yes, we don’t check IDs), or anywhere in-between, you’re welcome.
Need that morning caffeine fix to kickstart your day? We get it, and we’ve got you covered.
Looking to make new friends, find your community footing again, or broaden your professional network? You’re in the right place
No membership, no sales pitches, just genuine connections. We’re here to celebrate what makes living in the Okanagan great.
The OYP Collective, part of the COEDC, is your gateway to connecting with other dynamic young professionals in our community.

To learn more about The Greater Westside Board of Trade, visit https://www.gwboardoftrade.com/
The Okanagan Young Professionals (OYP) Collective is a program of the COEDC, and a hub of resources to help attract and retain talent in the region. There’s no membership and we don’t sell anything (other than why it’s so great to live here). All are welcome to come out and join to connect with other awesome young professionals in our community!

GWBOT December Business After Hours
2025-12-11 17:00 - 19:00 | Strawn & Co
Join the Greater Westside Board of Trade for their business after hours on December 11th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Get your tickets: https://www.gwboardoftrade.com/event-calendar/#!event/2025/12/11/decemberbusiness-after-hours

Tech The Halls 2025
2025-12-11 17:00 - 20:00 | 460 Doyle Avenue, Kelowna, Canada
Tech the Halls is back! BEEM Credit Union and Accelerate Okanagan at the Kelowna Innovation Centre for an unforgettable evening filled with festive vibes, meaningful connections, and holiday cheer. Don’t forget to wear your favorite festive attire; holiday sweaters are highly encouraged!

Register on Eventbrite – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/tech-the-halls-2025-tickets-1770869170359?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Young Professional Coffee Social
2026-01-13 08:00 - 09:30 | Accelerate Okanagan, 201-460 Doyle Ave,, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 0C1, Canada
Kick off 2026 with coffee, networking, and fresh connections! Join the Okanagan Young Professionals Collective at Accelerate Okanagan’s vibrant lounge in the Innovation Centre on Tuesday, January 13th from 8:00 to 9:30 am.
Here’s What You Need to Know:
No Entrance Fee: Joining us is free! Coffee and snacks will be on us.
Come When You Can: Drop by anytime between 8:00 – 9:30 a.m. Stay for a quick chat or linger longer over your coffee — the pace is yours to set.
Event Details:
Date: January 13th, 2026
Time: Drop in anytime from 8:00 – 9 :30 a.m.
Location: Accelerate Okanagan’s lounge, Innovation Centre
Who’s welcome?
Just moved to town? Perfect, meet your first friends here!
Grew up in the Okanagan? Be the guide for newcomers.
New to the business world or a seasoned professional? Share stories and insights.
Whether you’re under forty, over forty (and yes, we don’t check IDs), or anywhere in-between, you’re welcome.
Need that morning caffeine fix to kickstart your day? We get it, and we’ve got you covered.
Looking to make new friends, find your community footing again, or broaden your professional network? You’re in the right place
No membership, no sales pitches, just genuine connections. We’re here to celebrate what makes living in the Okanagan great.
The OYP Collective, part of the COEDC, is your gateway to connecting with other dynamic young professionals in our community.
The Okanagan Young Professionals (OYP) Collective is a program of the COEDC, and a hub of resources to help attract and retain talent in the region. There’s no membership and we don’t sell anything (other than why it’s so great to live here). All are welcome to come out and join to connect with other awesome young professionals in our community!

Casual Tuesdays - Jan 13 @ Red Bird Brewing
2026-01-13 16:00 - 18:00 | Red Bird Brewing
Future of Productivity’s Casual Tuesdays returns Jan 13. Casually connect with other founders and builders to spark fresh conversations for the New Year.

GWBOT January Business After Hours
2026-01-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Pearl and Fern
Join the Greater Westside Board of Trade for their January Business After Hours.

Connect + Collab Mixer - Strategic Marketing for Business Growth
2026-01-21 17:30 - 20:00 | Sandhill Wines
Hosted by Chic Creative Community. Network, exchange ideas, and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs. Expand your circle, spark collaborations & be inspired.

Kelowna Chamber Commerce ConneX
2026-01-22 17:00 - 19:00 | Kelowna Ramada Hotel & Conference Centre, 2170 Harvey Avenue, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 6G8, Canada
Join the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce for another Commerce ConneX at Ramada by Wyndham, Thursday January 22nd, 2026!
THIS IS A 19+ EVENT.

Momentum Makers: Building Growth Through Community
2026-01-27 10:00 - 12:00 | Rustic Reel Brewing Company
WeBC invites you to join a gathering designed for genuine conversation, new introductions, and the kind of peer support that helps you move forward, whether you’re just getting started or scaling up.

Employers Advisory Group Meeting
2026-01-28 12:30 - 14:00 | KCR Community Resources
The meeting will focus on Inclusive Hiring and Challenges. This your chance to connect with KCR Community resources and share your perspectives, challenges, and needs.

Career Exploration Series: Marketing, Human Resources & Management
2026-01-29 15:30 - 17:00 | UBC Okanagan EME Foyer
Meet 30+ Employers. One Afternoon. Real Career Insight.

OKMN Kick-off Mixer: Kelowna
2026-01-29 17:00 - 19:00 | Vitalis, 3488 Velocity Ave, Kelowna
Join Okanagan Manufacturing Network at Vitalis to celebrate its launch!

Meet new faces, connect with industry peers, and get a glimpse into the innovative work happening across the region – hosted by the fantastic team at Vitalis, a standout local manufacturer known for their forward-thinking approach and commitment to quality.

Young Professional Coffee Social
2026-02-04 08:00 - 09:30 | Sncewips Heritage Museum and Gift Store, 525 British Columbia 97 #Unit 260, Westbank, British Columbia, V1Z 4C9, Canada
The OYP Collective is excited to collaborate with Sncewips Heritage Museum and Gift Store again, combining networking, community connection, and exploring the syilx culture and heritage! Join us on Feb 4 from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. to expand your professional and social network. From 9:00 to 9:30 a.m., you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the museum to learn about the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the syilx people. As an Indigenous-owned and operated business, the museum amplifies syilx voices, connects our community, and provides a safe space for open, honest conversation.
Here’s What You Need to Know:
Joining us is free! Coffee and snacks will be provided
Drop by anytime between 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. From 9:00 a.m onwards, enjoy a guided tour of the Sncewips Heritage Museum
Who’s Welcome?
• Just moved to town? Perfect, meet your first friends here!
• Grew up in the Okanagan? Be the guide for newcomers.
• New to the business world or a seasoned professional? Share stories and insights.
• Whether you’re under forty, over forty (and yes, we don’t check IDs), or anywhere in-between, you’re welcome.
• Need that morning caffeine fix to kickstart your day? We get it, and we’ve got you covered.
• Looking to make new friends, find your community footing again, or broaden your professional network? You’re in the right place.
The Okanagan Young Professionals (OYP) Collective is a program of the COEDC, and a hub of resources to help attract and retain talent in the region. There’s no membership and we don’t sell anything (other than why it’s so great to live here). All are welcome to come out and join to connect with other awesome young professionals in our community!

Intro to AI: Fundamental Concepts
2026-02-04 08:00 - 17:00 | Online
Curious about Artificial Intelligence but not sure how it fits into your business? This free one-hour workshop that’s in partnership with WeBC introduces AI in clear, non-technical language and shows how it can be used to save time, reduce costs, and stay competitive.

24 Hour PitchLab
2026-02-06 16:00 - 2026-02-07 17:00 | Accelerate Okanagan, 201-460 Doyle Ave,, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 0C1, Canada
Event Title: 24 Hour PitchLab
Hosted by: Accelerate Okanagan
Date & Time:
• Friday, February 6, 2026 — 4:00 PM
• Saturday, February 7, 2026 — 5:00 PM (end)
Location: Accelerate Okanagan, 201-460 Doyle Ave, Kelowna, BC V1Y 0C1, Canada
Description
24 Hour PitchLab is an immersive, founder-focused workshop where early-stage startup teams bring a draft pitch deck and leave with a polished, investor-ready presentation. Over the course of 24 hours, participants will refine storytelling, strengthen pitch strategy, and receive direct feedback from experienced entrepreneurs and investors. The event culminates in a private showcase for community leaders and investor members, providing valuable exposure and networking opportunities for founders.
Who Should Attend:
• Pre-seed and early-stage startup founders
• Founders preparing for fundraising conversations
• Teams with a working pitch deck in need of refinement
What’s Included:
• Expert-led training sessions on pitching and storytelling
• Real-time feedback from investors & seasoned founders
• Polished, investor-ready pitch deck
• All meals (Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast, lunch and event happy hour)
Why Attend:
This hands-on experience is designed to build confidence, sharpen messaging, and prepare founders for meaningful investor conversations in a collaborative, high-impact environment.

Talent Gateway 2026: Multi-Employer Networking Event (Virtual)
2026-02-12 12:00 - 14:30 | Virtual
This free virtual event, organized by the Canadian Employment Connections (CEC) program, connects employers with job-ready, internationally trained professionals, including pre-arrival, pre-approved Permanent Residents and recently landed Permanent Resident candidates from across Canada.

Kelowna Women In Business Bootcamp
2026-02-21 08:30 - 16:30 | UBC Okanagan
This dynamic event is designed to educate, empower and inspire. It offers nine powerful sessions covering topics ranging from business and social media strategies to staying resilient through constant change. There will also be a full-house panel on AI – the hottest topic in town.

Okanagan Business Women Coffee Meet
2026-02-24 09:00 - 10:30 | Cascade Lounge Waterscapes
Join us for a morning of connection, networking, and fun with other inspiring business women in the Okanagan.

UBC Okanagan Career Fair
2026-02-25 11:00 - 15:00, 2026-02-26 11:00 - 15:00 | UBCO EME Foyer
The UBC Okanagan Career Fair is a signature annual event that connects over 80 leading organizations with more than 2,000 motivated students and alumni. As one of the Okanagan’s largest employer recruitment events, it’s an opportunity to build your talent pipeline, grow your on-campus presence, and engage directly with future professionals from a wide range of disciplines.

OFFSITE | Finding Clarity in Complexity
2026-02-26 08:00 - 16:00 | Summerhill Pyramid Winery, 4870 Chute Lake Road, Kelowna, BC, V1W 4M3, Canada
Join Accelerate Okanagan at Summerhill Pyramid Winery for a full-day retreat designed to elevate your leadership performance.

This edition of OFFSITE is a one-day, immersive experience designed for founders and senior leaders who want to turn complexity, distraction, and constant change into a strategic advantage. Helping you cut through noise, sharpen decision-making, and build the clarity required to lead in exponential times.

Women in STEM: Turning Ideas into Impact Through Entrepreneurship
2026-02-26 17:30 - 19:00 | The student Union Theatre
What does it look like to build a career at the intersection of STEM and entrepreneurship? On February 26, from 5:30 to 7:00 pm, UBC Okanagan’s School of Engineering, WeBC, and ETSI-BC will host a Women in STEM Entrepreneurship panel featuring women founders who are turning technical expertise into real-world impact. For women in STEM, entrepreneurship and business can be powerful pathways for transforming ideas into real-world impact. This upcoming panel brings together women entrepreneurs leading STEM-driven businesses to share their experiences at the intersection of science, technology, innovation, and enterprise.

Connect + Collab: Business Mixer [Profit w/Intention & Clarity]
2026-02-26 17:30 - 20:00 | Downtown Kelowna
where entrepreneurs and professionals network, share insights, and spark powerful collaborations for growth and success!

Business Connect Expo
2026-02-28 10:00 - 17:00 | Kelowna Events Centre
Business Connect Expo is the ultimate in-person networking hub to spark new deals and partnerships!

Leading with AI: Risk, Responsibility, and Real-World Decisions
2026-03-11 17:30 - 20:00 | Sandhill Wines
AI isn’t coming — it’s already reshaping how leaders make decisions, manage risk, and move their organizations forward.
Come have a glass of wine at Sandhill and join Csek Creative for an evening of candid conversation and practical insight as we welcome Optiv, our Presenting Sponsor and leaders in secure, responsible AI adoption.
Level Up: Out of Office series — a monthly gathering designed for leaders navigating real-world challenges beyond the boardroom.

Okanagan Business Women Social Meet
2026-03-12 15:00 - 17:00 | Kelly O’Bryan’s Neighbourhood Restaurant, 262 Bernard Ave, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1Y 6N4, Canada
Okanagan Business Women getting together to connect, network and have fun.

Startup Sprint Weekend
2026-03-13 17:00 - 2026-03-15 15:00 | UBC Okanagan
Startup Sprint is an immersive, high-energy weekend experience of learning-by-doing!
The program teaches in an exciting, hands-on environment, teaching you how to go from identifying a problem to building a solution fit to form a new business.
The program is free, open to everyone in the community and meals are provided.
Spots are limited. This is an in-person experience delivered on the UBCO Campus. A waitlist will be created should we reach our maximum capacity.

Greater Westside Board of Trade - March Coffee Social
2026-03-17 08:00 - 09:00 | Bliss Bakery & Bistro, 320-1405 Stevens Road, West Kelowna, BC, Canada

Young Professional Coffee Social
2026-03-19 09:00 - 10:30 | UBC Okanagan Campus
Kickstart your day by making connections with young professionals, alumni and postsecondary students at the Coffee Social on Wednesday, March 19th, from 9:00 am to 10:30 am at UBC Okanagan Engineering, Management, and Education (EME) Building – 1137 Alumni Avenue, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7. This is your chance to network with talented students, alumni, and professionals from different industries! Join us to connect with various community members in a casual and friendly setting.
Here’s What You Need to Know:
No Entrance Fee: Coffee and snacks will be on us.
Come When You Can: Drop by anytime between 9:00 am to 10:30 am. Stay for a quick chat or linger longer over your coffee — the pace is yours to set.
Date: March 19th, 2025
Location: UBC Okanagan Engineering, Management, and Education (EME) Building -1137 Alumni Avenue, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7. Building located behind the bus loop.
Who’s welcome?

Just moved to town? Perfect, meet your first friends here!
Grew up in the Okanagan? Be the guide for newcomers.
New to the business world or a seasoned professional? Share stories and insights.
Whether you’re under forty, over forty (and yes, we don’t check IDs), or anywhere in-between, you’re welcome.
Need that morning caffeine fix to kickstart your day? We get it, and we’ve got you covered.
Looking to make new friends, find your community footing again, or broaden your professional network? You’re in the right place
No membership, no sales pitches, just genuine connections. We’re here to celebrate what makes living in the Okanagan great.
The OYP Collective, part of the COEDC, is your gateway to connecting with other dynamic young professionals in our community.

About OYP Collective
The Okanagan Young Professionals (OYP) Collective is a program of the COEDC, and a hub of resources to help attract and retain talent in the region. There’s no membership and we don’t sell anything (other than why it’s so great to live here). All are welcome to come out and join to connect with other awesome young professionals in our community!

Navigate Shipping and Logistics for Your Agrifood Business
2026-03-19 10:00 - 11:00 | Virtual
Shipping agrifood products to new markets involves more than choosing a carrier. From packaging and labeling requirements to export documentation, duties, and insurance, logistics decisions can have major impacts on cost, compliance, and delivery timelines. Join Export Navigator and guest experts for a 60-minute session on shipping and transportation considerations for agrifood exporters. This webinar will provide an overview of common shipping options, packaging and labeling requirements, and the documentation needed to move products across borders, including export declarations and permits. Whether you’re preparing your first shipment or preparing to scale, this session will help you understand your options and make informed shipping decisions. By the end of this session, participants will be able to: 1. Understand key shipping and transportation options for agrifood exports, including perishable products. 2. Recognize when duties, taxes, and insurance may apply to export shipments. 3. Understand the role of customs brokers and freight forwarders in the agrifood exporting ecosystem. 4. Identify packaging, labeling, and documentation requirements for exporting agrifood products. This session is the last webinar of a five-part series for B.C.’s agrifood businesses looking to grow as they seek new markets.
