Invest Kelowna

08/31/2026

A great event for Central Okanagan fleet operators to check out, hosted by the Community Energy Association! Learn about medium and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles and speak with peers and experts about opportunities and challenges. Not only will you get up close with in-service vehicles, but you will also speak directly with peers and experts about the opportunities and challenges of integrating new technologies into existing fleets.

And it is all free!

- See vehicles from Rizon Trucks, Blue Force Energy, Mack Trucks and others.
- Hear from local low-carbon fuel producers, early adopters, and fleet managers.
- Ask questions and share insights that can help with your own planning and decision making.

Reserve your spot on Eventbrite - https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/fleet-forward-in-the-okanagan-showcasing-zero-emission-fleet-vehicles-tickets-1994643252663

Learn about medium and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles and speak with peers and experts about opportunities and challenges

08/26/2026

With ongoing changes to Canada-U.S. trade relations and new tariff measures, businesses are facing increased uncertainty. Explore our tariff resources page for the latest trade updates, economic analysis, government programs, funding opportunities, risk assessment tools, and export resources to help your business navigate changing trade conditions.

https://www.investkelowna.com/tariffs

08/26/2026

Calling all Central Okanagan businesses attending Grocery Innovation Canada (GIC) 2026!

Make the most of your GIC experience. Join us and Export Navigator BC for a virtual pre-trade show preparation workshop featuring a 1-hour information session and 30-minute Q&A. Learn key strategies to help you prepare, connect, and get the best return on your trade show investment.

💻 Virtual Readiness Workshop
📅 Sept 10, 2026
🕘 9:00 am to 10:30 am

Interested in attending? Email [email protected] to reserve your spot.

08/25/2026

Missed the online panel discussion hosted by the BC Wine Grape Council R&D and Health & Safety Committees last week? Watch their recording to learn more about important information related to production insurance, smoke taint mitigation strategies, and resources for employers navigating these challenging times.

https://bcwgc.org/2026/08/20/resources-for-navigating-wildfire-impacts-to-your-farm-and-wine-production-operation/

Hosted by the BC Wine Grape Council R&D and Health & Safety Committees August 20 @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Smoke taint in BC what we know Presenters: – L ...

08/24/2026

Help grow opportunities for women entrepreneurs in your community!

Applications for the WeBC Pollinator Program intake are now open. Across BC, over 330 WeBC Pollinators are creating meaningful connections, sharing resources, and helping entrepreneurs feel supported every step of the way.

If you like connecting with fellow business owners, supporting women in business, and making a difference where you live, we invite you to join us!

As a WeBC Pollinator, you'll become part of a province-wide network of community champions dedicated to helping women entrepreneurs access valuable programs, mentorship, and opportunities.

Along the way, you'll gain access to exclusive training, networking opportunities, events from our sponsor, Scotiabank Women Initiative, a complimentary 1-year membership with Athena Collective, and more.

Applications are open until September 4.

Learn more and apply today 👇🏼
go.we-bc.ca/PollinatorProgram

08/21/2026

Registrations Open for UBCO's Micro Credential Program! This two-part micro-credential helps professionals apply leading sustainability tools and frameworks, culminating in a comprehensive industry report aligned with ISO 14044 standards and integrated into business strategic planning. Limited seats available - Eligible BC residents may have course fees fully covered through the StrongerBC Future Skills Grants (FSG). The program runs from October 6 to November 28.

Learn more and register now - https://cpe.ok.ubc.ca/programs/applied-life-cycle-assessment-and-esg-reporting-for-circular-economy/

08/21/2026

Access our easy-to-read Economic Indicators PDF on our website under Reports and Studies. Stay up to date on the latest Central Okanagan economic trends, statistics, and insights in an accessible format (https://www.investkelowna.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Economic-Indicators_Q2-2026.pdf). In addition to the PDF, explore our latest Q2 Economic Indicators blog for deeper insights and economic analysis from across the region.

The Central Okanagan economy continued to show signs of growth in the second quarter of 2026, with a larger workforce, more people employed, and higher airport passenger volumes. However, construction activity slowed, and the unemployment rate increased as the labour force grew faster than employment. Together, these indicators reflect an economy that remains active while adjusting to changing market conditions. Read our blog to learn more - https://www.investkelowna.com/blog/economic-indicators-q2-2026/

The Economic Indicators provide a quarterly summary. For the most up-to-date statistics and information, visit our Data Portal - https://data.investkelowna.com/

08/20/2026

We are excited to announce that we have received a 2026 Excellence in Economic Development Silver Award in the Business Retention and Expansion category from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for our Okanagan Manufacturing Database. This recognition highlights our commitment to innovative economic development strategies that benefit our community of over 200,000 residents. Thank you to IEDC, for celebrating our efforts in promoting economic growth and prosperity in the Central Okanagan.

Covering businesses from Salmon Arm to Osoyoos, the database supports and strengthens the region's manufacturing sector. This initiative highlights the diversity and strengths of manufacturers across the Okanagan while increasing visibility of the region’s industrial capabilities. By fostering local supply chain connections and encouraging collaboration across communities and sectors, it supports regional economic development and helps reduce reliance on external sources.

Visit our Manufacturing Database to learn more - https://www.investkelowna.com/manufacturing-database/

08/19/2026

Throwback to our participation in the Team Canada Trade Mission to Japan earlier this summer.

Led by Global Affairs Canada, this initiative focused on expanding international opportunities for Canadian businesses while strengthening key trade relationships. Alongside regional partners including Invest Lake Country, Westbank First Nation, and Ntityix Development Corporation, we engaged in meaningful conversations, built new connections, and gained valuable insights into Japan's market.

Throughout the mission, Canadian companies showcased their expertise across priority sectors, valuable market insights were gained, and strong connections were established. The Team Canada Trade Mission highlighted the expertise Canadian companies bring to global markets and the potential for continued collaboration between Canada and Japan.

The Central Okanagan is home to a diverse and growing mix of industries that drive innovation, exports, and economic growth. For more information about the region visit, www.investkelowna.com

08/14/2026