Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission

SKY's the LIMIT - Cocktail style networking event
2024-06-22 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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, 2024-08-22 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.

Labour Market Information for Newcomers to Canada
2024-08-13 18:30 - 19:30 | zoom event, Canada
Join KCR for this informative session to learn about the Labour Market in Canada and how to tap into your target market. Find out how to do the research specific to the job you are looking for, and what techniques are used by Employment Specialists who work with Newcomers to Canada.
This workshop is for you if you are:
Permanent Residents (in the last 10 years)
Minimum 1- 2 years of prearrival experience in the desired occupation
Minimum CLB 5 for English Proficiency
Register Today on Eventbrite!
The Workshop is offered on Zoom. Please register to receive the Zoom link.
This event is hosted by the Career Paths for Skilled Immigrant Program at KCR Community Resources.

Financial Wake Up Call: Confidence Through Clarity
2024-08-21 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Is your business fulfilling your financial needs? Join Taunya Woods Richardson for a free, interactive session to help you understand your needs and numbers, including: how much the business needs to pay you monthly; how much money you’ll need for retirement; and the current return you’re making on your business investment.
Register for FREE!

Young Professional Coffee Social
2024-09-04 08:00 - 09:30 | Tourism Kelowna Visitor Centre, 238 Queensway, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 6S4, Canada
Are you ready to brew up some new connections this Fall? Okanagan Young Professionals Collective is back with another Coffee Social! Join us at Kelowna Visitor Centre on Sept 4th from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m.
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: Wednesday, Sept 4th, 2024
Time: Drop in anytime from 8:00 – 9 :30 a.m.
Location: Kelowna Visitor Centre, 238 Queensway, Kelowna BC, V1Y 6S
REGISTER on Eventbrite

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!

After Hours: Valleyview Funeral Home – BBQ
2024-09-04 17:00 - 19:00 | Valleyview Funeral Home, 165 Valleyview Rd, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1X 3M5, Canada
Join Uptown Rutland Business Association for after hours at Valleyview Funeral Home,
To learn more, click here!

After Hours: Norman’s Diner (URBA)
2024-09-04 17:00 - 19:00 | Norman’s Diner, #110-235 Hollywood Rd N, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1X 6A8, Canada
Join Uptown Rutland Business Association for after hours at Norman’s Diner.
To learn more, click here!

Smart Connect Coffee - Rooftop edition
2024-09-10 08:00 - 10:00 | The Innovation Centre
Join SMAC and community partners on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 from 8:00 am to 10:00 am for a morning of innovation, networking, and inspiration at Smart Connect Coffee! This event is designed for innovative professionals across all industries to come together, share ideas, and forge meaningful connections in a relaxed and inspiring setting with the beautiful rooftop views of the Innovation Centre.
Register on Eventbrite.

Okanagan Business Women Social Meet
2024-09-12 15:00 - 17:00 | Michaelbrook Golf, 1085 Lexington Drive, Kelowna, BC, V1W 4M9, Canada
Okanagan Business Women getting together to connect, network and have fun. Casual get togethers with no commitment or cost.
2nd Thursday Monthly 3:00pm-5:00pm
JUNE 13TH AT MICHAELBROOK GOLF COURSE (Outside in the putters patio – if it’s rainy we will be inside) 1085 Lexington Drive, Kelowna, British Columbia
Please register on Eventbrite so we know how many people are coming.
Locations will be updated on their FB Group and Eventbrite.

Landmark After Hours by HUB Office Furniture and Midtown Station
2024-09-12 16:30 - 18:30
Join Landmark district in the Landmark 6 courtyard for yet another exciting Landmark After Hours, co-presented by HUB Office Furniture and Midtown Station. Join them on a crisp fall evening in Kelowna, surrounded by the vibrant colours of the season, for a night of networking and community engagement within the bustling Landmark District.
For more information and tickets, visit Eventbrite.

Connect + Collab Business Mixer [Future of Marketing]
2024-09-12 17:30 - 19:30 | Okanagan Lifestyle Apparel Inc., 1295 Cannery Lane ##115, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1Y 9V8, Canada
Join the Chic Experience at Okanagan Lifestyle, downtown Kelowna for an evening of connections, collaborations, and insights into the future of marketing. Whether you’re new to town, a seasoned professional or just starting out, this event is perfect for you.
Topic: The Future of Marketing.
This event will feature engaging discussions on the importance of Brand Identity, the latest advancements in SEO, and the transformative potential of AI.
Speakers: Nikki Csek (Founder, ceo, KelownaNow and Csek Media) + Casey Evans (Founder + Innovator, SlyFox Web design) and More to come.
Your ticket includes a Drink, Snacks + a Raffle ticket for a ($500+ chic package) giveaway!
Attendees will have the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals, share insights, and collaborate on strategies to stay ahead in the rapidly changing marketing landscape.
Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and elevate your busines, and gain valuable knowledge with our panelists. ** 20% OFF any shopping @ Okanagan Lifestyle Apparel **
Register on Eventbrite.

Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Speaker Series
2024-09-18 11:30 - 13:30 | Delta Grand Hotel, 1310 Water Street, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 9P3, Canada
This panel discussion of Top 40 cohort Honourees examines the changing attitudes towards women and underrepresented groups in leadership positions, and their increased influence in today’s culture, mainstream media, and boardrooms.
Join them on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm as they explore how today’s emerging leaders shape their leadership approach to align with these shifts, identify experienced disparities in networking, investment, and venture capital access, and hear how successful leaders have navigated these issues.
Register today!
