Running a small business in Niagara? BDC's Small Business Week, from October 19th to 25th, 2026, is for you. Held every year since 1979, Small Business Week is a week of free events, in person and online, open to every entrepreneur, not just BDC clients. This year's theme is about adapting to a fast-changing economy, from artificial intelligence to buying a business.
Something local
The South Niagara Chambers of Commerce, which bring together the Greater Fort Erie, Niagara Falls, Port Colborne-Wainfleet and Welland/Pelham chambers, are hosting a free online webinar on business financing on Tuesday, October 20th, 11 a.m. to noon, as part of Small Business Month. Details and registration are on the South Niagara Chambers of Commerce events page.
Free help, all year
Small Business Week is a good reminder that Niagara has free, practical support for people starting or growing a business:
- St. Catharines Enterprise Centre, 14 Ontario Street, St. Catharines
- Niagara Falls Small Business Enterprise Centre, at City Hall, 4310 Queen Street, Niagara Falls
Both can help with business plans, registration, programs and advice.
And for the rest of us
Small Business Week is also a good week to shop local. Buy your coffee from the independent café, book the local trades business, and leave a kind review for a business you love. It all adds up.