October is Small Business Month, the time to recognize and celebrate the vital role small enterprises play in driving our local economy and shaping our community! Thank you to our small businesses!

In Okotoks, small businesses make up nearly 99% of all employers, contributing to job creation, innovation and the unique character that defines our town. From the heart of downtown along Elizabeth and Elma Streets to thriving commercial hubs like Westmount, D’Arcy Crossing and Southbank, local businesses help our community grow and thrive.

In recognition, the Okotoks & District Chamber of Commerce and Servus Credit Union are hosting the Small Business Week one-day conference on October 23 to inspire, connect and support the local business community. The Town and Community Futures Highwood are proud to partner in celebrating and empowering our local entrepreneurs. 

If you’re a small business owner, solo entrepreneur, or community partner looking to grow, learn and network, this event is a must-attend!

Learn more & purchase tickets

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers has recently opened its doors at #100, 201 Southridge Drive. Welcome to Okotoks!

Known for its cooked-to-order steakburgers, shoestring fries and freshly churned frozen custard, Freddy’s is excited to serve the local community. Stop by and help us welcome them to town!

This year marks 40 years of Pizza 73, and we’re excited to celebrate the Okotoks location as part of this milestone! Since opening, Pizza 73 has been serving up its signature pizzas, wings and sides while being a proud supporter of communities across Alberta. Congratulations to Pizza 73 on four decades of success!

Check out the Okotoks location at #14, 34 Southridge Drive!

We would like to welcome the following business to town - thank you for doing business in Okotoks and becoming part of our wonderful business community!

Inspired Fitness & Health
JR Enterprise
Balance Everywear - Shawna Kotyk
Breanna Forry Registered Acupuncturist
The Styled Wildflower Hair Spa
Logan Northcott Chiropractor
Simply Renovations Ltd

Whether you’re starting a home-based business or moving into a commercial space, the Town’s Doing Business in Okotoks Guidehas everything you need to know to get started from licences and permits to local supports.

Learn more

We’re following up on outstanding 2024/2025 Town business licence payments. If you’ve already submitted your fee, thank you. If not, please do so by October 30 to keep your licence active. We understand that delays can happen and are happy to work with you if you’re experiencing any challenges.

Without payment, your licence is not valid, which means your business is not currently permitted to operate within/partially within the Town.

Learn more

The 2025 Okotoks municipal election determines who will serve our community on Town Council for the next four-years. Skip the lines - vote early at the Viking Rentals Centre (# 4, 204 Community Way) on Oct. 11, 13 or 15. Or vote on Election Day, Monday, Oct. 20 at one of our three voting locations. Find out who’s running, where to vote, what ID you'll need and how to request a special ballot if you can't vote in person by clicking the button below.

Learn more

Why It Matters for Businesses

• Shape Your Business Environment Council decisions directly affect bylaws, taxes & policies that impact businesses.
• Build Community Trust Show customers you care about Okotoks' future.
• Expand Your Network Meet residents, candidates & decision-makers who can become partners or customers.

Travel Alberta is accepting applications until October 20, 2025 for projects that expand or create unique tourism experiences from culinary and cultural offerings to outdoor adventures and accommodations. Projects must be shovel-ready with 25% matching funds.

If you’re considering applying and would like help brainstorming your project idea, connect with the Town’s Economic Development team.

Learn more

There’s always something happening in Okotoks! Check out the details for these upcoming events:

October 20: Municipal Election

October 23: Small Business Week Conference

Click the link below to find out about more community events! 

Learn more

A circular economy is a system which challenges the traditional linear economy by reusing, sharing, recycling and repairing existing materials to extend their lifespan and reduce waste. By transitioning to a circular economy, we not only can benefit the planet but also the economy!

Moving toward a more circular economy for plastics could reduce carbon emissions by 1.8 megatonnes annually, generate billions of dollars in revenue, and create approximately 42,000 jobs by 2030¹.

Exploring circular business practices can help reduce waste, lower costs and strengthen local sustainability efforts. For more information click the button below.

Lean more 

¹ Source: Government of Canada 

We’ve refreshed Why Okotoks with new interactive data tools powered by Local Intel. Explore key insights about our community, workforce and business advantages in a clear, user-friendly format.

Business Learning Toolkit
This toolkit is your go-to resource for planning, launching, or growing a business.

Have a Business Question?
Check out the Doing Business in Okotoks Guide. If you need extra support, reach out to our team, we’re here to help!

Funding Resource: Canada Business App
Looking for grants, funding and support for your business? Download this Government of Canada app to access tailored funding resources and get notified about new opportunities and deadlines.

Business webinars can help businesses thrive. They often focus on specific skills or topics relevant to your industry. Check out what's coming up!

Business Webinars & More

Interested in learning more about, or bidding on, procurement opportunities? Find out more below!

Procurement Opportunities

📱Stay connected & informed! Check out/ sign up for all Town newsletters!

📅 Have a business event you would like to include? Submit your event

💡 Do you have ideas to make this newsletter more exciting or business-related topics you'd like to see? Connect with us!