🎉 Exciting news for #SmallBusiness owners in #Olds & #Alberta! The Chamber just launched Biz Bite videos to help you grow 📈💡 Get the details from the Small Business Week kickoff 👇👇
Olds & District Chamber of Commerce Kicks Off Small Business Week
The Olds & District Chamber of Commerce celebrated the launch of its second annual Small Business Week on Monday, Oct. 21, bringing together entrepreneurs and local business leaders for a breakfast at the Cacio e Pepe Italian Bistro. This event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of fostering local businesses and building community, and it showcased the region’s ongoing commitment to supporting growth and innovation.
A Fresh Approach to Business Support
One of the key highlights of the kickoff event was the announcement by business development advisor Michelle McFadden. She introduced a valuable new tool for local entrepreneurs—online Biz Bite learning videos. Beginning Tuesday, Oct. 22, the Regional Business Support Network will release these 20-minute live sessions aimed at providing bite-sized yet essential knowledge for business owners. This new series is a game changer, not only because of its convenience but also due to the practical, real-world topics being covered.
The first session, titled Show me the Money, focuses on one of the most critical aspects of any business: financing. With participation from five financial institutions, the video promises to delve into the “5 Cs of Credit”—character, capacity, capital, collateral, and conditions—which are crucial criteria for securing business loans. Given that all spots for this session were filled, with a waiting list already forming, it’s clear that there’s a significant demand for knowledge about accessing capital.
McFadden’s enthusiasm about the program is palpable. By offering these sessions live and giving free access to the recordings, the Chamber of Commerce is empowering business owners in Olds to access vital information at their own convenience.
The Broader Impact of Small Business Week
The Small Business Week kickoff in Olds is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of resilience, adaptability, and community spirit. The turnout of about 35 attendees at the breakfast, hosted at a local restaurant, reflects the strength of the town’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Small businesses are the backbone of towns like Olds, playing a crucial role in local employment and contributing to the unique character of the community.
It’s particularly fitting that McFadden’s announcement comes during Small Business Week, a time dedicated to highlighting the critical role that small enterprises play in the Canadian economy. Events like these, supported by the Chamber of Commerce and other regional networks, help foster an environment where businesses can thrive. They provide access to resources, networking opportunities, and expert advice, which are essential for growth.
For the businesses of Olds, this is more than just a routine event on the calendar. It’s a statement of support and a signal that the local business community is a priority for the town. The breakfast event also serves as a reminder of the importance of community-driven efforts to support entrepreneurship, from innovative learning opportunities like the Biz Bite videos to the simple act of gathering to share insights over breakfast.
A Look Ahead: What's Next for Olds' Entrepreneurs?
The Biz Bite series doesn’t end with Show me the Money. On Nov. 19, the next session will cover grants for businesses, another essential topic for entrepreneurs looking to expand or improve their operations. Grants, often overlooked, can provide much-needed financial support without the burden of debt, making this session a must-attend for any business in Olds looking to grow sustainably.
In a world where small businesses often face numerous challenges—from navigating financial systems to understanding government regulations—access to practical, focused education is more important than ever. By addressing specific, high-priority topics, these sessions can provide business owners with the confidence and knowledge they need to tackle challenges head-on.
The Chamber’s approach here is both forward-thinking and community-oriented. Not only are they addressing the immediate concerns of local businesses, but they’re also providing a sustainable support system that will continue to benefit the region in the long term.
Building Community Through Collaboration
Small Business Week in Olds is about more than just learning opportunities. It’s about community. By creating spaces for dialogue and collaboration, the Olds & District Chamber of Commerce is reinforcing the idea that no business exists in isolation. Whether through events like the kickoff breakfast or the upcoming Biz Bite sessions, local entrepreneurs are being given the tools and connections they need to succeed.
This sense of community and collaboration is key to the long-term vitality of Olds. As businesses support one another, share knowledge, and work together, the entire town benefits. Events like these foster a spirit of cooperation and shared success that can have a ripple effect throughout the local economy.
Final Thoughts
The Small Business Week kickoff in Olds represents the best of what local business ecosystems can achieve when there is a concerted effort to support and nurture small enterprises. The Biz Bite series, with its focus on practical knowledge and accessibility, demonstrates a clear understanding of what local businesses need. As Olds continues to grow and evolve, it’s initiatives like these that will help ensure the long-term success of its entrepreneurs.
If you attended the kickoff or are planning to tune in to the Biz Bite sessions, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Join the conversation on our Facebook or Twitter page and share your opinions on the future of small business in Olds. Together, we can help shape a thriving community for years to come.