Celebrating Entrepreneurs with the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce
Small Business Week 2019
October 21 - 24
This year’s Small Business Week (October 21 - 24) is going to be full of excitement as the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce has partnered up with a number of local organizations to host a series of events aimed at supporting the business community.
Every year the Chamber celebrates Small Business Week as a way of supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs. “This year, the National theme is about shining the spotlight on entrepreneurship,” says Will Collins, Manager, Marketing and Communications at Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce. “We’re focusing on the Fort McMurray area and those entrepreneurs with grand ideas and huge hearts.”
Here are some of the other events happening as part of Small Business Week in Fort McMurray…
Monday, October 21 – Performing Under Pressure: Breakfast with Majit Mihnas
Hosted by Wood Buffalo Economic Development and Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce, Small Business Week is being kicked off with with the opportunity to spend the morning listening to one of Canada’s entrepreneurs, television personalities, and venture capitalists, Manjit Minhas of CBC’s Dragons’ Den.
The event will feature breakfast and inspirational conversation as Manjit dives into topics of performing under pressure and share tips on taking the right risks towards success.
Thursday, October 24 – Luncheon Reception with the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
Learn from a woman entrepreneur who has been there! Staci Millard, Chartered Professional Accountant and Treasurer for the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce, will be sharing her entrepreneurial story as part of Small Business Week. Staci is passionate about teaching business owners how understanding their finances is a crucial part of their success. Staci has given her time to assisting small businesses through the Ask and Expert program through Wood Buffalo Economic Development Corporation and also with training for non-profit organizations.
Thursday, October 24 - 2019 Business Awards Gala
The Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce 2019 Business Awards Gala is your opportunity to celebrate the dynamic and diverse businesses that give our city its character. Join in the celebration while honouring the best of Fort McMurray’s businesses and entrepreneurs. Enjoy local entertainment, signature cocktails and delicious food, and an after-party that can’t be beat! This year, the Business Awards Gala is going to be quite different than in previous celebrations.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday – Business Visitation
During Small Business Week, the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce will be joining their Business Support Network colleagues as they visit local businesses.
“This year we’re trying a new idea and will be conducting a Business Visitation Program,” says the Chamber’s Executive Director, Sheri Pidhirney.
“As part of the Business Support Network, we’ll be going out to meet with local businesses to talk about and identify shared challenges and opportunities in the business community. Businesses can expect a potential visit from us and our partner organizations.” Along with the Chamber of Commerce, the Business Support Network (BSN) includes Community Futures Wood Buffalo, Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (NAABA), the Government of Alberta’s Ministry of Labour & Immigration, and the Wood Buffalo Economic Development Corporation.
While the BSN won’t be able to visit all businesses in the community, local businesses will have an opportunity to provide feedback through an online survey open from October 21 - November 4 at www.choosewoodbuffalo.ca.
Although Small Business Week only happens once a year, Fort McMurray is full of amazing entrepreneurs and businesses. We encourage you to show your support so that Fort McMurray’s business scene can continue to grow, and thrive.
Celebrate small business in a big way. Learn more about the events at facebook.com/ymmchamber or fortmcmurraychamber.ca.
