Invest Kelowna

10/15/2026

A huge thank you to Reidco Metal Industries Ltd., Trueleaf Petcare Inc., Rise Tape, The Bees Knees Design, PRE Labs Inc., Jupiter Avionics Corporation, Brenda Renewables Ltd., Gambrinus Malting Corporation and Penticton Powder Coat for completing the manufacturing database updated intake form.

We are expanding and enhancing the database to create a more comprehensive resource for manufacturers across the region. The enhanced database supports business-to-business matching by comparing what manufacturers buy against what others make, while also supporting investment attraction and early warning by identifying supply chain risks before disruptions occur.

If you haven't already, be sure to complete the form by the end of October. To complete the form, visit : https://www.investkelowna.com/okanagan-manufacturing-database-intake-form/

10/13/2026

Help shape the future of the Central Okanagan economy!

The COEDC is seeking business and industry leaders to join its 2027 Advisory Committee. Members play an important role in identifying opportunities, sharing sector insights and helping ensure economic development initiatives reflect the needs of businesses across the region. We are particularly interested in hearing from leaders in aerospace and manufacturing, construction and development, health, and hospitality and tourism sectors.

Applications are open until 4:00 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2026. Interested individuals can submit their resume or a summary of their business background, along with contact information, to [email protected]

For more information, including the committee's Terms of Reference, visit investkelowna.com/about-the-coedc/committee/.

10/09/2026

Join Thewebc in Kelowna on November 26 for an evening of connection, conversation, and community to explore the many paths to entrepreneurship!

At “Build, Buy, Belong,” you’ll hear honest stories from local entrepreneurs about building and buying businesses, navigating challenges, embracing opportunities, and finding support along the way.

You'll also have the opportunity to connect with local organizations dedicated to helping entrepreneurs succeed.

This event is open to growth-minded entrepreneurs, aspiring business owners, and those looking to find their next step in building their own business.

Early bird pricing of just $25 until October 26! Space is limited, secure your seat: go.we-bc.ca/KelownaEvent

10/07/2026

B.C.'s Agri-Business Planning Program (ABPP) provides funding to help primary agricultural producers and food and beverage processors access business planning services and specialized business training. The program helps businesses build knowledge, strengthen planning, and support future growth and resilience. Funding is available through two streams. Deadline to apply is Oct 20.

Learn more - https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/programs/agri-business-planning-program

The B.C. Agri- Business Planning Program supports specialized business planning to enable producers and processors to make more informed decisions and strengthen their business.

10/02/2026

A strong network can make all the difference when settling into a new community. We are happy to see the impact of the COEDC Connector Program through stories like this one. Thank you to our connectee for sharing their experience and highlighting the value of local connections.

Visit our website to learn more about the connector program - https://www.investkelowna.com/connector/

10/01/2026

Join GreenStep for their free Climate Action Training to discover how small, low-cost actions can lead to real savings. From lighting upgrades to smarter procurement, they will help you uncover cost-effective ways to cut energy, waste, and water bills without big investments. Backed by the City of Kelowna and delivered by the experts at GreenStep.

There are only a few spots remaining for Cohort 2, which starts on October 29 from 10:00 to 11:00 am.

Learn more and register today - https://greenstep.ca/climate-action-training-kelowna/

09/29/2026

Tomorrow, the RDCO will join communities across Canada in solemn recognition for the sixth annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, alongside Orange Shirt Day. This day honours the survivors of residential schools, their families, and the children who never returned home. It is a time to reflect, to learn, and to act.

We encourage all residents of the Central Okanagan to actively participate in reconciliation. We invite you to:
🔸 Attend local events and ceremonies that honour survivors and Indigenous communities.
🔸 Learn about the history and legacy of residential schools, including those that impacted families in the Interior region.
🔸 Read and reflect on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action.
🔸 Engage with Indigenous-led initiatives, voices, and teachings.
🔸 Consider how reconciliation can be advanced in your own workplace, neighbourhood, and daily life.

Let this day be more than remembrance, it is a call to build a future rooted in truth, justice, and respectful relationships. 🕊️

Our offices on KLO Road will be closed on Wednesday, September 30. Curbside collection and transfer station hours are not impacted. For emergencies in RDCO water systems or Regional Parks call 250-868-5299.

09/29/2026

UBC Okanagan is inviting businesses, investors, industry associations, chambers of commerce, accelerators, and economic development organizations to help shape the future of its Innovation Precinct. Your feedback will help them better understand which resources, partnerships, and programs would be most helpful to you. Responses will inform the business plan and recommendations for the Innovation Precinct.

Whether you are already operating in the region or considering opening a business here in the future, your perspective is valuable.

Complete the survey by October 20 : https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GVB3K2P

09/25/2026

The latest COEDC Advisory Committee meeting discussed key issues shaping the Central Okanagan's economy, including regional economic development updates, health innovation, physician recruitment and retention, and trade and supply chain challenges.

Members heard from Betty Brown, Innovation Liaison: Government and Community, and Dr. Dee Taylor, CEO of the JP Centre for Health Systems Learning + Innovation, who shared how the organization is connecting innovators, businesses, researchers, governments, and communities to projects that improve health outcomes and access to care. The discussion highlighted opportunities for local governments and business leaders to help connect communities and innovators to projects, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare services can be more limited.

Beth Whalley, Executive Director, and Amanda Oakes, Recruitment Lead with the Central Okanagan Division of Family Practice, provided an update on physician recruitment and retention efforts across the region. Presenters highlighted improvements to recruitment pathways, a 95% retention rate among relocating physicians, supported by relocation services, spousal employment assistance, and community integration initiatives such as the COEDC Connector Program. To date, the program has connected with 11 trailing spouses, most of whom are planning to relocate in early 2027. The Division of Family Practice is seeking community partners to support future initiatives and help advance access to primary care in the region.

Read our blog for a recap of our advisory committee meeting this month - https://www.investkelowna.com/blog/september-coedc-advisory-committee-meeting-focuses-on-health-innovation-physician-recruitment-and-trade-challenges/