Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission

UBC Okanagan Career Fair
2026-02-25 11:00 - 15:00 (America/Vancouver) | 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

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

Young Professional Coffee Social
2025-12-10 08:00 - 09:30 | 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!

IP Masterclass: Advanced IP Agreements – Partnership and Manufacturing
2025-11-27 13:30 - 15:00 | Online
​This session dives into the strategies, risks, and negotiation tips for partnership agreements and manufacturing agreements.
​Explore practical examples, uncover common pitfalls, and learn how to safeguard your business relationships for long-term success.
Register here: https://luma.com/vy3kd6qp

Future of Funding: How AI is Changing the Game
2025-11-27 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
​AI is reshaping how funding decisions are made, but is it helping or hindering women founders? This is not a technical workshop or demo. Instead, it’s a community dialogue where founders and ecosystem builders explore the real impact of AI on funding pathways.

Job Club
2025-11-26 13:30 - 15:30, 2025-11-12 13:30 - 15:30, 2025-11-05 13:30 - 15:30 | KCR Office
KCR’s Job Club is a networking activity for newcomers who are seeking employment, brushing up on their job search skills, researching on local job market trends, and needing job support from KCR’s best employment specialists.
Where: KCR Office – 618 Bernard Avenue

2025 JCI Kelowna Mayor's Luncheon
2025-11-26 11:00 - 13:00 | The Ramada, 2170 Harvey Ave, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1Y 6G8, Canada
Join JCI Kelowna for their annual JCI Kelowna Mayor’s Luncheon, a must-attend event that brings together the local business leaders, community members and of course, our esteemed Mayor Tom Dyas. The event will be hosted at the The Ramada located in Kelowna. This in-person luncheon is a great opportunity to connect, engage, and grow within your community.
Register on Eventbrite – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/2025-jci-kelowna-mayors-luncheon-tickets-1808293708159?aff=ebdshpsearchautocomplete

Young Professional Coffee Social
2025-11-26 08:30 - 10:00 | Lake Country Radio Cafe, 10356 Bottom Wood Lake Road, Lake Country, V4V 1T9, Canada
Are you ready to brew up some new connections? We are excited to collaborate with The Lake Country Chamber of Commerce to host a coffee social at Lake Country Radio Cafe on Wednesday, November 26th from 8:30 am to 10:00 am for a morning of networking and socializing.
Enjoy fresh coffee, light networking, and great company to kickstart your day. 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! You set your budget – beverages and snacks can be purchased from Lake Country Radio Cafe, allowing you to enjoy their delicious offerings while you network.
Come When You Can: Drop by anytime between 8:30 – 10:00 am. Stay for a quick chat or linger longer over your coffee — the pace is yours to set.
Event Details:

Date: November 26th, 2025
Time: Drop in anytime from 8:30 – 10:00 am
Location: Lake Country Radio Cafe, 10356 Bottom Wood Lake Rd, Lake Country, BC V4V 1T9

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 Lake Country Chamber of Commerce, visit https://www.lakecountrychamber.com/
To learn more about Lake Country Radio Cafe visit https://www.instagram.com/lakecountryradiocafe?igsh=dXpqaGJrNHRhNTM5&utm_source=qr
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!

November Business After Hours
2025-11-20 17:00 - 19:00 | Kelly O’bryans
Join Greater Westside Board of Trade for their business after hours on November 20th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Get your tickets today – https://www.gwboardoftrade.com/event-calendar/#!event/register/2025/11/20/november-business-after-hours

Commerce ConneX
2025-11-19 17:00 - 19:00 | Sandhill Wines
Kelowna Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce their November Commerce ConneX 2025, brought to you by Rogers Business.
Join them at Sandhill Winery with co-host YMCA.

Okanagan Business Women Social Meet
2025-11-13 15:00 - 17:00 | Kelly O’Bryans, Canada
Okanagan Business Women getting together to connect, network and have fun.

Register on Eventbrite – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/okanagan-business-women-social-meet-tickets-1412746535919?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Startup Drinks at FH&P
2025-10-29 16:00 - 18:00 | FH&P Lawyers
Join Accelerate Okanagan and FH&P Lawyers at the Landmark Building for Startup Drinks on Wednesday, October 29. This happy hour is all about making new connections and catching up with familiar faces in a relaxed setting. No pitches, no pressure, just good conversation with great people.
Register on Eventbrite!
