One Week. One Entrepreneurial Community. October 19-23, 2026
BDC Small Business Week™ is Canada’s largest annual celebration of entrepreneurship, created by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) to recognize the contributions of entrepreneurs and small business owners across the country.
This year’s theme is especially relevant for today’s business environment. Entrepreneurs are navigating rapid change, adopting new technologies, and finding innovative ways to grow. To help Durham Region businesses stay ahead, we have curated a selection of Small Business Week events from the Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) and local Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade.
Whether you’re starting a business, growing an established company, or looking for your next opportunity, Small Business Week 2026 offers actionable insights you can put to work immediately.
At BACD (Business Advisory Centre Durham), we’ve been proud to support thousands of entrepreneurs across Durham Region for over 25 years. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, we’re here with free advisory services, over 130 workshops a year, and programs that help you build a business that lasts.
BDC Small Business Week 2026 Themes
The New Speed of Business – Moving beyond resilience means adapting quickly, making decisions faster, and creating systems that help your business gain momentum.
Technology & AI – Artificial intelligence and technology continue to reshape how businesses operate. Entrepreneurs who embrace these tools can improve productivity, streamline operations, and create more time to focus on growth.
Growth & Expansion – Growth can take many forms. From acquiring a business and pursuing new markets to improving financial management and preparing for larger opportunities, this year’s theme encourages entrepreneurs to think strategically about their next phase of growth.
Small Business Week Events
Monday Oct 19
Buying a Business – What to Look For, the Red Flags & How to Get It Financed | 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Register
Tuesday Oct 20
Building Your Business Platform | 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Register here
BACD Start Up Session | 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Register here
Wednesday Oct 21
4th Annual BDC Economic Outlook Breakfast | 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Register here
Reignite Business Conference from Heart of Networking | 9:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Learn more and Register
Hands-On: Start Your SOPs & Process Mapping: | 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Register here
Ajax Pickering Board of Trade Business Excellence Awards 2026 | 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Register here
Thursday Oct 22
Whitby Chamber Business Summit: 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Register here
Cash Flow Management in an Unpredictable Environment| 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Register
What’s Brewing, Oshawa Chamber of Commerce | 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Register
Friday Oct 23
Coffee & Convos North Durham Chamber of Commerce | 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Register
Whitby Chamber Java Jolt | 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Register
We Mean Business Networking Breakfast | 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Register
Why Attend Small Business Week?
Small Business Week is more than a series of workshops. It is an opportunity to:
- Learn from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts
- Discover practical tools and strategies you can implement immediately
- Connect with other business owners facing similar opportunities and challenges
- Explore new ways to grow, improve efficiency, and strengthen your business
- Access the support, programs, and resources available throughout Durham Region.
