Kitchener celebrates Small Business Week with free events for business owners

The City of Kitchener is celebrating Small Business Week with free workshops and networking events for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners. Interested residents are invited to register online through the Waterloo Region Small Business Centre.

From family-run shops to innovative startups, small businesses help shape the character and vitality of our city. This week is an opportunity to celebrate the entrepreneurs who make Kitchener unique and to encourage residents to support local businesses that contribute so much to our community every day by creating jobs, strengthening our community, and making Kitchener’s economy more competitive.

Small Business Exchange – Open Mic edition

October 23, 2026

4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

More than traditional networking, this event brings together entrepreneurs and small business owners to exchange ideas, build partnerships, discover local services, and promote their businesses through networking, exhibitor displays, and an open mic business showcase. Register in advance.

Business Plan 101 (virtual)

October 27, 2026

1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Learn why a business plan is important for your business success and the steps to complete your own. Register in advance.

Newcomers Building Businesses in Waterloo Region

October 27, 2026

6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Kitchener has engaged with the Kitchener Public Library for a series called: New Ways to Work. This session will explore the experiences of women entrepreneurs who are building businesses, creating solutions and contributing to the local economy. Hear real stories about supports that made a difference.  Register in advance.

The Waterloo Region Small Business Centre is part of the Ontario Small Business Advisory Centres (OSBACs) network, making it easier for entrepreneurs in our community to identify and access one-on-one consultations, training, provincial programs and grants at more than 50 locations across Ontario. 

For more information, visit the Waterloo Region Small Business Centre website.

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About Support Local. Build Kitchener.

Kitchener has always been a community of makers, builders, innovators and entrepreneurs. Every time we choose to support local, we contribute to the success of the businesses and people who help shape our city. 

Every purchase helps build local businesses, create local jobs and build a more resilient Kitchener. When you choose to shop, dine, or do business locally, you're doing more than making a purchase. You're helping build a stronger Kitchener. 

Learn more at Kitchener.ca/Support-Local.

About WRSBC

The Waterloo Region Small Business Centre is part of the Ontario Small Business Advisory Centres (OSBAC) network, which delivers provincially funded programs and services to help entrepreneurs and small businesses start, grow, and succeed. With more than 50 centres across Ontario, the OSBAC network supports local business growth and strengthens communities throughout the province.

Whether you have an idea, are looking to start your own business or want to grow your existing business, WRSBC advisors provide one-on-one consultations, inspiring people to start and grow sustainable businesses, here in Waterloo Region.

Learn more at WaterlooRegionSmallBusiness.com.