Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission

Okanagan Angel Summit
2024-05-23 | Accelerate Okanagan Technology Association, 201-460 Doyle Avenue, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 0C2, Canada
The 6th annual Okanagan Angel Summit is an elevated pitch program for entrepreneurs and accredited investors. Powered by Accelerate Okanagan, this 8-week program is not just about choosing who will receive the big investment, it’s about training entrepreneurs and investors in the capital-raising process, making it easier to invest and get investment. It’s all happening April 2 to May 23, 2024.
Through a guided process, participating companies will learn about the capital raising process and how to effectively build relationships with prospective investors.

Investors will receive training around the investment and due-diligence process, providing new investors with a chance to actively learn how to vet companies, provide feedback, and help support early-stage companies.
At the end of the program, 6 finalists will pitch to an audience of community members. During this finale, the investors will decide which company receives an investment of up to $200,000.
Learn more

Wildfire Tech Call for Innovation Q&A Session (CICE)
2024-05-30 10:00 (America/Vancouver) | zoom event, Canada
On May 30th 2024, CICE is launching a province-wide call for wildfire technology innovation in response to the surges in forest fires that are fueling record global emissions and threatening the prosperity and well-being of our communities. Up to $3 million in non-dilutive investment will be awarded to innovators across B.C. that are commercializing solutions related to wildfire prevention, mitigation, and adaptation. Together, we can leverage B.C.’s strengths in sustainable forestry, wildfire research, traditional land management practices, and a thriving cleantech hub to accelerate wildfire management for ’21st century’ fire advancements. Applications for the wildfire technology innovation call will be accepted May 30th – August 7th, 2024.
Date and Time: May 30th, 2024 at 10:00 am
Learn more in their announcement.
Click here to register!

Young Professional Coffee Social
2024-06-05 08:00 - 09:30 | Spaces, 460 Doyle Ave #106,, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1Y 0C2, Canada
Kickstart your day by making connections with other young professionals in the community at the Coffee Social on Wednesday, June 5th from 8:00 am to 9:30 am and stay for a productive coworking day at SPACES. This Coffee Social, we have partnered with SPACES at the Innovation Centre to offer you the chance to try a free day of coworking till 5:00 pm!
Only limited spots available for the coworking day. Choose between a morning, afternoon or a full day session. Email us at oyp@investkelowna.com to secure your spot for coworking.
Here’s What You Need to Know:
No Entrance Fee: Coffee Social and the Coworking day are FREE! Coffee and snacks will be on us.
Come When You Can: For the Coffee Social, 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. For the coworking day, pick a morning (10:00 am to 1:00 pm), afternoon (1:00 pm to 5:00 pm) or stay for an entire day till 5:00 pm.
Coffee Social Event Details:

Date: June 5th, 2024
Time: Drop in anytime from 8:00 – 9 :30 a.m.
Location: SPACES, Innovation Centre – #106, 460 Doyle Avenue, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 0C2

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.

Why Coworking?
Coworking is a shared but independent working environment.One of the greatest benefits of coworking is that it provides a wider range of networking opportunities. Other benefits of coworking include:

Increased productivity
Boosts creativity
Provides collaboration opportunities
Offers greater flexibility
Provides a sense of belonging and purpose

Register on Eventbrite today!

WeCAFE- Getting Started with Email Marketing
2024-06-12 10:00 - 11:00 | webc, Suite 201, 1726 Dolphin Avenue, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1Y 9R9, Canada
The marketing landscape is constantly changing – new tools, platforms and regulations happen every day. When so many marketing channels are outside of your control, your email list is gold because you own it! So how do you maximize your email marketing?
Join WeBC on June 12 to hear from digital marketing expert and WeBC Mentor, Glynis Tao, who will share best practices to help you build, manage, and optimize your email marketing campaigns.
To learn more about their event and to register, visit their website.

Commerce ConneX at Pushor Mitchell
2024-06-12 17:00 - 19:00 | Pushor Mitchell, #301 - 1665 Ellis Street, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1Y 2B3, Canada
The next Commerce ConneX is Wed June 12 at Pushor Mitchell. Make new connections and catch up with our community. These events are open to everyone looking to grow their network. First event? Get in touch and the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce will connect you with a buddy.
For more information and to register, click here!

Unpacking Artificial Intelligence: Tips for Using AI in Your Business
2024-06-13 10:00 - 11:00 | zoom event, Canada
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has made its way into all aspects of business, and marketing is no different. When used correctly, it can help you save valuable time and energy. When used incorrectly, you can end up sounding like a robot, perpetuating biases, or putting your sensitive customer data at risk.
If you’d like to harness the power of AI for your business (without losing that human touch), join WeBC and Jennifer Kolbuc on June 13 for a realistic look at the Dos and Don’ts of using AI for marketing.
Jennifer is an experienced digital marketer and social media strategist who has created this informative workshop to cover:

How AI is leveling the playing field for small businesses
What tools are available, how to find them, and what they cost
How to integrate AI tools into your daily workflow to save time
AI pitfalls, shortcomings, and blind spots
How to use AI for SEO and social media

Join us to gain a better understanding of how you can harness AI for your business and ask your questions of an experienced marketer!
Cost: $25, free for WeBC Loan Clients
Thursday, June 13 | 10am to 11am PT | Webinar

Facilitator: Cathy Burrell, Client Services Coordinator
Panelist: Jennifer Kolbuc, Founder, Mountain Top Consulting

To register, click here!

WeCAFE - Growing on Social Media: Myths and Tips from Mint Cleaning
2024-06-19 10:00 - 11:00 | webc, Suite 201, 1726 Dolphin Avenue, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1Y 9R9, Canada
Mint Cleaning is an eco-friendly cleaning company owned by two Ucluelet Moms, Robyn and Monika. They started Mint in 2016 as a cleaning company and, after suffering from the harmful effects of harsh cleaning chemicals, developed their own products that are safe for both families and the environment.
On social media, Robyn and Monika are known for their trusted cleaning tutorials, aligned collaborations and hilarious content. They currently have over 55k followers on Instagram and won the 2023 E-Commerce Experience Award from Small Business BC.
Join us on June 19 in our virtual WeCafé for a chat with Robyn and Monika. They’ll answer your questions and share:

How they make social media trends work for their brand
Tips for finding the right collaborations
What they do offline to make the most of their social media efforts

Free and open to everyone!
Wednesday, June 19 | 10am to 11am PT | Free Virtual WeCafé
Facilitator: Cathy Burrell, Client Services Coordinator
Panelists:

Robyn Mair and Monika Scott, Co-Founders, Mint Cleaning

To learn more and to register, visit their website!

Social Media Webinar
2024-06-19 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
If you’re tired of following trends and trying to stay on top of it all, join us to learn about unique marketing strategies for your specific needs within your business marketing goals. We will also discuss how to be able to use social media marketing to help you, work with you, and enhance your business without losing your mind and feeling overwhelmed.
Where?
The comfort of your own Home, or Office
When?
June 19th, From 11am – 12pm
This event is FREE and $10 for non-members. Sign Up here.

How AI is Changing Access to Talent
2024-06-20 09:00 - 22:30 | Accelerate Okanagan Technology Association, 201-460 Doyle Avenue, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 0C2, Canada
join Emily Phair, President of TMG Search Canada, at the Kelowna Innovation Centre on June 20th for a workshop on how employers can leverage AI to access talent.
This event will be hosted in-person at Accelerate Okanagan’s Kelowna Office in the HQ Boardroom. Please make sure to go a few minutes early to check in and get settled.
Register on Eventbrite.

June Business After Hours - Greater Westside Board of Trade
2024-06-20 17:00 - 19:00 | Greater Westside Board Of Trade, 2372 Dobbin Rd, West Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
Join The Greater Westside Board of Trade on Thursday, June 20 from 5-7pm at Fairfield Inn & Suites for a great evening of networking, local food and drink and some great prizes.
Advance registration is recommended. Register today!

JCI Be Better Business Conference
2024-06-21 08:00 - 15:00 | Best western plus Kelowna Hotel & Suites
The JCI Be Better Business Conference is a one-day opportunity on June 21, 2024 from 8am to 3pm to embark on a journey towards personal and professional excellence for individuals in the community that are looking to level up in work, life and play.

The keynote speakers will address topics around behavioral intelligence and interpersonal communication skills for both work and family, how to face and overcome adversity and things that are “never part of the plan” and how to mitigate burn-out culture and find the right integration of work, life and play.

If you’re keen to secure your spot before it’s gone, you can find more information and tickets on Eventbrite or by CLICKING HERE!

JCI Kelowna is beyond excited to share these amazing keynotes/trainers with the community and hope that you’ll be among the exclusive crowd that will get to participate in this epic day!
To learn more about their event download their media kit.

SKY's the LIMIT - Cocktail style networking event
2024-06-22 18:00 - 21:00 | KF Aerospace
Boss Babe VIP is thrilled to announce our partnership with KF Centre for Excellence for an extraordinary event: SKY’s the LIMIT. Join us for an uplifting cocktail-style networking event full of empowerment, as we connect with women of all identities who share our vision of cheerleading each other to the top!
Hosted in the spectacular Hangar of KF Centre for Excellence, you will hear the inspiring and motivating words from our KeynoteSpeaker, Nadine Spencer, CEO & President of BrandEQ Group Inc, who will speak to all you Boss Babes about imposter syndrome and how to break through that glass ceiling. You’ll also hear from our Supporting Speaker, Kierra Smith, 2x Olympian.
You will also get to browse the vender tables, enjoy wine from 50th Parallel Estate Winery and delicious appetizers provided by Kelowna’s newest hot spot, Pretty Not Bad. This event promises to be unforgettable as DJ Shado sets the vibes for all you Boss Babes.
There are TWO ticket options available, so please visit Eventbrite to learn more and get your tickets.

International Gateway Summer 2024 Career Fair
2024-06-25 10:00 - 14:00 | International Gateway Language and Career College Kelowna, 300-1674 Bertram Street, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1Y 9G4
Join International Gateway Language Academy and College Kelowna at the International Gateway Summer 2024 Career Fair!
Explore a wide range of job opportunities in Kelowna, with companies from the Business Administration, Hospitality, Tourism, Wine and IT Industries.
Meet with our career college advisors to hear about our guaranteed co-op options.
Register here.

Downtown Kelowna After 5
2024-06-26 17:00 - 19:00 | Tourism Kelowna Visitor Centre, 238 Queensway, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 6S4, Canada
The next Kelowna Downtown After 5 will be held at Tourism Kelowna’s Visitor Centre on June 26th, 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
This is Kelowna’s best business casual mixer that turns traditional networking into a chance to unwind and get to know your neighbours.
Get your tickets today!

WorkBC Centre Kelowna Presents: BCLC Virtual Hiring Event
2024-06-27 11:00 - 12:00 | Virtual
Thursday June 27th, 2024
11 AM – 12 PM
The company is hiring GameSense Advisors in Kelowna and remote positions within BC. They are looking for candidates with a background in sociology/psychology and with a passion for customer service.
Registration is required, please register with the link below:
BCLC Virtual Hiring Event Tickets, Thu, Jun 27, 2024 at 11:00 AM | Eventbrite

Info, Idea, Concept Session for Entrepreneurs on the Rise
2024-06-28 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
Calling all aspiring Woman entrepreneurs! Join Entrepreneurs on the Rise for an online Info, Idea, and Concept Session.

This session is a valuable way to learn more about their program, take your ideas and brainstorm for your concept, and answer questions about your concept form submission.
During this event, you’ll have the opportunity to ask our experienced coaches and team members, who will share their insights and help you with the application process.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow your existing business, this session will provide you with the knowledge and guidance you need to complete the application process. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with their team and have your questions answered.

Register on Eventbrite.

Young Professional Coffee Social
2024-07-02 08:00 - 09:30 | Sprout Bread, 1295 Cannery Lane #125, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 0C2, Canada
Whether you’re eager to start your day with a dose of caffeine, hungry for some delectable snacks, or looking to grow your social and professional circles, let’s brew up some new connections at Sprout Bread on Tuesday, July 2nd from 8:00 to 9:30 am.
Mingle with new friends and fellow young professionals in a casual and friendly setting – this isn’t your traditional networking event.
Here’s What You Need to Know:
No Entrance Fee: Joining us is free! You set your budget. Beverages and snacks can be purchased from Sprout Bread, allowing you to enjoy their delicious offerings while you network.
Come When You Can: Drop by anytime between 8 – 9:30 am. Stay for a quick chat or linger longer over your coffee — the pace is yours to set.
Coffee Social Event Details:

Date: July 2nd, 2024
Time: Drop in anytime from 8:00 – 9:30 am
Location: Sprout Bread – 1295 Cannery Ln #125, Kelowna, BC V1Y 9V8

Register on Eventbrite!

FREE Co-working Day!
2024-07-04 08:30 - 17:00 | Produckidvity, 540 Leon Ave, Kelowna, V1Y 6J6, Canada
Enjoy a day of focused work with complimentary access to their coworking facilities, including high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable workstations, and meeting rooms. Take a break and indulge in their delicious free meals, crafted with locally sourced ingredients to keep you energized throughout the day.
Unwind at their happy hour and connect with like-minded professionals. Plus, treat yourself to an on-site massage to rejuvenate your mind and body with Be Still Massage Therapy.
Explore their office specials and discover office + childcare opportunities available at their newest facility at The Block on Bernard, offering offices in Kelowna’s newest, most tech-forward space.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the ProducKIDvity coworking community. RSVP now to secure your spot!

GreenStep Certified Program Launch
2024-07-09 10:00 - 11:00
Join us on July 9th at 10am PST as we launch GreenStep Certified, our newest membership program to help businesses measure, monitor, and improve their environmental performance.

Register for their FREE information webinar being held on July 9th at 10:00 am.

Free WeBC Business Loan Info Session
2024-07-09 12:00 - 13:00
Learn about the financing options available through WeBC!
WeBC has a Business Loan Program, and we are the BC Loan Fund Partner of the WEOC National Loan Program for women and non-binary entrepreneurs.
If you would like to access these programs to start, expand or purchase a business you will need to participate in one of our free phone-in info sessions about the loan programs.
During this session, the facilitator will:

Review our lending criteria for each program
Answer your questions
Advise you on how to apply
Provide you with a resource package

An Advisor will work with you to determine if you are eligible for a loan.
This spring, these FREE phone-in sessions are held every Tuesday from 12pm to 1pm PT.
Register on their website.

Fireside Chat: The Funding Puzzle: Piecing Together a Growth Plan
2024-07-11 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
WeBC is hosting a fireside chat with women founders who will share their experiences accessing various sources of capital to drive the growth of their businesses. Join them to hear how these women are completing their funding puzzles by accessing other people’s money, and taking risks to secure the funds they need to execute their growth strategy. This session will feature:

Erin Alexander, Entrepreneur-in-Residence and Certified Investor Q&A© Trainer
Samantha Matsuda, Owner of Evolution Equestrian Co.
Alice Couderc, Co-Founder of Atome Bakery
Aki Kaltenbach, Founder and CEO of Save Da Sea Foods

This session will be offered in English with simultaneous French interpretation.
Register for free!

Info Session for Agricultural Industry Regarding Plastic Waste
2024-07-16 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy is leading a information session on July 16th from 11:00 a.m to 12 p.m, to identify policy approaches for improved management of non-residential packaging, plastic, and paper waste. This work is part of the CleanBC Plastics Action Plan and Extended Producer Responsibility Five-Year Action Plan. Agricultural producers and industry associations are encouraged to review the discussion paper and provide feedback through the engagement website.
Register for their information session.

Youth Employment Boot Camp 2024
2024-07-17 13:30 - 2024-07-19 16:00 | KCR Meeting Space, 1609 Bertram St, Kelowna
Join KCR for an intensive training designed to enhance your career skills and knowledge! The Youth Employment Boot Camp will take place on July 17th, 18th and 19th from 1:30pm – 4:00pm at KCR Bertram Meeting Space, 1609 Bertram St.
Register for free! Refreshments will be provided.

ConneXpo 2024
2024-07-18 15:30 - 19:00 | Sandhill Wines
The Kelowna Chamber is thrilled to present ConneXpo 2024, a one-of-a-kind trade show, expo, and networking event all in one.
Meet with unique organizations in the Okanagan and engage in a very special post-tradeshow CommerceConneX networking event at Sandhill Wines. Reconnect with friends and make new connections in our community.
3:30pm – 5:00pm Tradeshow (complimentary glass of wine)
5:00pm – 7:00pm Commerce ConneX (complimentary glass of wine and light hors d’oeuvres)
*cash bar available
Attendee Ticket price is only $15! You will receive a complementary glass of wine from our venue sponsor, Sandhill Wines.
This event is open to members and non-members. All membership networking vouchers must be redeemed online.
*Pre-registration is encouraged.
For more details and to register, click here.

Intro to foundations Webinar - How to create a successful food & beverage brand
2024-07-24 18:00 - 19:00 | zoom event, Canada
Taught by Good to Grow Founder and CEO, Andrea Gray-Grant, this 1 hour webinar explores the key elements needed for a successful food and beverage business.
You will get to experience firsthand what our new Foundations educational program, starting September 11, 2024, covers and leave with a better understanding of what you need to grow!
They will finish the webinar with open Q&A.
Register on Eventbrite.

A Guide to Government Contracts: How to Sell, Prepare and Deliver!
2024-07-25 10:00 - 11:00, 2024-08-08 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Join WeBC to hear from Procurement Assistance Canada (PAC) as they help you explore the possibility of selling to a major client—The Government of Canada! Discover the wide variety of products and services that the government purchases and learn about the step-by-step process involved.
Whether you’re a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation, with 1 employee or 500 employees, selling a product or service – this series is for you!
Register for FREE!

WorkBC Centre Kelowna Hiring Event
2024-07-25 10:00 - 12:30 | WorkBC Kelowna Centre, 107-1835 Gordon Drive, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 3H4, Canada
WorkBC Centre Kelowna is hosting a Hiring Event! Join them to connect with local employers from different sectors looking to hire new talent. If you’re looking for your first job, a career, change, or just interested in exploring new opportunities, this event is for you.
Thursday, July 25th 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: #107 – 1835 Gordon Drive
Register on Eventbrite:
Employers Include:

Interior Health
Decisive Dividend Corporation
Papason Trucking
Renewal By Anderson

Fall Programs Info Session
2024-08-08 11:30 - 12:30 | Online
In this virtual presentation, the AO Programs Team will introduce you to our accelerator programs that are designed to empower and support startup founders on their journey. Discover how our cohort-based and 1:1 programs can provide the resources to fuel your startup’s growth and give you a solid foundation to build upon.
To register and to learn more visit Eventbrite.

Young Professional Ice Cream Social
2024-08-08 17:00 - 19:00 | The Sails (Abott St & Bernard)
The OYP Collective is skipping the coffee and socializing over ice cream on August 8th from 5:00 pm to 7:00pm! Join them Downtown Kelowna to connect with new friends and other young professionals at a casual and friendly social.
Register on Eventbrite.
