About this Event
The second workshop of the Alberta Future Economy Accelerator (AFEA), titled “Business Innovation & Technology Adoption for SMEs,” will take place on November 14, 2026, at Scotia Place in Edmonton, Alberta.
The workshop will help entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and economic development stakeholders identify business innovation opportunities, strengthen business models, and explore practical technologies to improve productivity, competitiveness, and growth. Through expert presentations, case studies, group discussions, and hands-on exercises, participants will learn how to leverage Alberta’s innovation ecosystem, access business support resources, evaluate technology adoption opportunities, and develop actionable strategies for business transformation and economic diversification.
AFEA is a one-year initiative designed to support Alberta's youth, women entrepreneurs, SMEs, and economic development organizations through practical training, mentorship, business advisory services, innovation and digital transformation, investment readiness, and market access opportunities. The program brings together partners from industry, economic development, innovation, and international organizations to help Alberta businesses strengthen their capacity and participate in the province's future economy.
We are hiring the 2nd cohort, to know more about AFEA, please visit: https://gedcouncil.ca/afea/
Agenda
🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:15 AM
Welcome & Introduction
🕑: 09:15 AM - 09:45 AM
The Role of Economic Development Organizations
🕑: 09:45 AM - 10:00 AM
Break
🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:50 AM
Alberta’s Innovation Ecosystem
🕑: 10:50 AM - 11:20 AM
Group Discussion: Identifying Business Support & Innovation Opportunities
🕑: 11:20 AM - 12:00 PM
Lunch & Networking
🕑: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Innovation & Business Model Development
🕑: 01:00 PM - 01:30 PM
Group Discussion: Business Innovation Canvas- Identify Your Opportunity
🕑: 01:30 PM - 01:45 PM
Break
🕑: 01:45 PM - 02:30 PM
Technology Adoption for SMEs: From Innovation to Business Value
🕑: 02:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Group Discussion: From Challenge to Opportunity- Business Innovation Action Pl
🕑: 03:00 PM - 03:15 PM
Wrap-up & Next Steps
Event venue & nearby stays
10072 Jasper Ave, 10072 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, Canada