OUR EVENTS
We Innovate Together.
Innovate Cochrane’s events focus on opportunities to learn and connect within the community. Often, events include the telling of stories (the good, the bad and the ugly) from our local leaders and entrepreneurs. Events always provide an opportunity to meet new people.
GROWTH AND CONNECTION
Innovate
Cochrane Events.
Regular events include the Community Innovation Speaker Series, Start-up Cochrane and Founders Coffee. In 2024, Innovate Cochrane was also involved in Cochrane’s Small Business Week.
EMPOWER BUSINESS LEADERS
Partner Events.
Innovate Cochrane partners with many organizations to provide Cochrane and area business leaders and entrepreneurs with information and access to a variety of events to support learning, networking and making community connections. Follow us on social media for the most up to date information on partner events.
Founders Coffee - NOVEMBER 2026
Join us for Founders Coffee, a casual gathering where aspiring entrepreneurs can network, share ideas, and enjoy a cup of coffee together!
What is Founders Coffee?
Join us for a cozy morning of networking and caffeine at SUNNY SIDE UP! Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and maybe even find your next business partner.
This event is open to all Founders within, surrounding, and visiting Cochrane! Don't miss out on this chance to sip some coffee, make new friends, and kickstart your day with inspiration.
See you there!
Curiosity & Conversation
We are welcoming curious, respectful and open minded Cochranites from all walks of life (18+) to an intentional evening of conversation.
Join us as we explore what it means to create immersive experiences for fostering unplugged, in-person connections.
Dress up if the invitation moves you to, or come as you are comfortable.
Tickets are free - capacity is limited - its encouraged to buy a drink and settle in.
Curiosity Catalysts for the evening:
Juli Rohl - Innovate Cochrane
Britt Kozloski - The Loft
Register:
Free + BYOB (buy your own beverage)
Location:
The Loft at Half-Hitch Brewing, Second Floor - Unit 1, 10 Griffin Industrial Point
Time: Doors open at 6:45pm, with the conversation catalyzing at 7pm.
Password for entry: LEGENDS OF THE FALL
START UP COCHRANE - NOVEMBER 2026
Startup Cochrane: An exciting gathering of local entrepreneurs and innovators coming together to network, collaborate & learn!
Welcome to Startup Cochrane - the ultimate event for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovative minds in Cochrane! Join us at The Corner Coworking and Co-Warehousing for an evening of networking and inspiration.
Whether you're looking to kickstart your own business or connect with like-minded individuals, this event is perfect for you. Come connect and take your ideas to the next level.
See you there!
START UP COCHRANE - OCTOBER 2026
Startup Cochrane: An exciting gathering of local entrepreneurs and innovators coming together to network, collaborate & learn!
Welcome to Startup Cochrane - the ultimate event for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovative minds in Cochrane! Join us at The Corner Coworking and Co-Warehousing for an evening of networking and inspiration.
Whether you're looking to kickstart your own business or connect with like-minded individuals, this event is perfect for you. Come connect and take your ideas to the next level.
See you there!
Analog Innovation for the 21st Century - Speaker: Juli Rohl (Revivis) - SMALL BUSINESS WEEK 2026
Speaker: Juli Rohl (Revivis)
You can spend a lot of money, time, and AI processing on solving the wrong problem. Put down the laptop and pick up the pencil! Let's learn how to fall in love with finding the problem that actually needs to be solved.
Founders Coffee - SMALL BUSINESS WEEK EDITION
Join us for Founders Coffee, a casual gathering where aspiring entrepreneurs can network, share ideas, and enjoy a cup of coffee together!
What is Founders Coffee?
Join us for a cozy morning of networking and caffeine at SUNNY SIDE UP! Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and maybe even find your next business partner.
This event is open to all Founders within, surrounding, and visiting Cochrane! Don't miss out on this chance to sip some coffee, make new friends, and kickstart your day with inspiration.
See you there!
SMALL BUSINESS WEEK IN COCHRANE 2026
Join us for Small Business Week 2026, from October 19 to 23.
Five days of connection, learning, and inspiration in Cochrane.
Take part in workshops, hear from engaging panels and speakers, and connect with local business owners, organizational leaders, entrepreneurs, board members, non-profit champions, and community builders. Each day offers a new focus to help us grow and thrive together.
Browse the events below or visit the Full Events Calendar to see details and register. Where pricing applies, fees are clearly noted. Space fills up fast, so register early to secure a spot.
START UP COCHRANE - SEPTEMBER 2026
Startup Cochrane: An exciting gathering of local entrepreneurs and innovators coming together to network, collaborate & learn!
Welcome to Startup Cochrane - the ultimate event for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovative minds in Cochrane! Join us at The Corner Coworking and Co-Warehousing for an evening of networking and inspiration.
Whether you're looking to kickstart your own business or connect with like-minded individuals, this event is perfect for you. Come connect and take your ideas to the next level.
See you there!
Community Innovators - September 2026 - building a skate park together
Our Spotlight Series -
Join us for a special evening of stories, insights, and perspectives on what community growth, connection, and innovation means in Cochrane!
Every month, join host Nathan Klassen with new guests as they discuss and explore unique ways they are driving community growth and innovation.
You don't want to miss their unique perspectives on community collaboration.
Wednesday, SEPTEMBER 16, 2026.
September Topic: Building A Skate Park Together: A Blueprint for Community Impact
Featuring:
Sam Stuart - Owner, Shredz Skateboard Shop
Laura Button - Managing Director, Calbridge Developments
Register:
Tickets are $5 per person and they are limited!
Location:
Found Books & Shop - 206, 1st Street W
Time: Doors open at 6:30pm, with the discussion starting at 7pm.
Founders Coffee - SEPTEMBER 1, 2026
Join us for Founders Coffee, a casual gathering where aspiring entrepreneurs can network, share ideas, and enjoy a cup of coffee together!
What is Founders Coffee?
Join us for a cozy morning of networking and caffeine at SUNNY SIDE UP! Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and maybe even find your next business partner.
This event is open to all Founders within, surrounding, and visiting Cochrane! Don't miss out on this chance to sip some coffee, make new friends, and kickstart your day with inspiration.
See you there!
Info Session #11 - CIE Program Cohort 4
The next cohort of the Community Innovation Ecosystem (CIE) Program launches in September. Come learn more about what Cohort 4 has to offer!
Hosted by Nathan Klassen, these information sessions offer deeper insight and conversation into what the program offers.
Is your organization ready to embrace its next stage of innovation and possibility?
We are now accepting applications for Cohort 4 of the CIE Program!
How to apply: https://www.innovatecochrane.com/programs
Can't attend an info session?
Reach out to us at connect@innovatecochrane.com to meet and discuss the program more intimately. This session will not be recorded.
Info Session #10 - CIE Program Cohort 4
The next cohort of the Community Innovation Ecosystem (CIE) Program launches in September. Come learn more about what Cohort 4 has to offer!
Hosted by Nathan Klassen, these information sessions offer deeper insight and conversation into what the program offers.
Is your organization ready to embrace its next stage of innovation and possibility?
We are now accepting applications for Cohort 4 of the CIE Program!
How to apply: https://www.innovatecochrane.com/programs
Can't attend an info session?
Reach out to us at connect@innovatecochrane.com to meet and discuss the program more intimately. This session will not be recorded.
Info Session #9 - CIE Program Cohort 4
The next cohort of the Community Innovation Ecosystem (CIE) Program launches in September. Come learn more about what Cohort 4 has to offer!
Hosted by Nathan Klassen, these information sessions offer deeper insight and conversation into what the program offers.
Is your organization ready to embrace its next stage of innovation and possibility?
We are now accepting applications for Cohort 4 of the CIE Program!
How to apply: https://www.innovatecochrane.com/programs
Can't attend an info session?
Reach out to us at connect@innovatecochrane.com to meet and discuss the program more intimately. This session will not be recorded.
Info Session #8 - CIE Program Cohort 4
The next cohort of the Community Innovation Ecosystem (CIE) Program launches in September. Come learn more about what Cohort 4 has to offer!
Hosted by Nathan Klassen, these information sessions offer deeper insight and conversation into what the program offers.
Is your organization ready to embrace its next stage of innovation and possibility?
We are now accepting applications for Cohort 4 of the CIE Program!
How to apply: https://www.innovatecochrane.com/programs
Can't attend an info session?
Reach out to us at connect@innovatecochrane.com to meet and discuss the program more intimately. This session will not be recorded.
Info Session #7 - CIE Program Cohort 4
The next cohort of the Community Innovation Ecosystem (CIE) Program launches in September. Come learn more about what Cohort 4 has to offer!
Hosted by Nathan Klassen, these information sessions offer deeper insight and conversation into what the program offers.
Is your organization ready to embrace its next stage of innovation and possibility?
We are now accepting applications for Cohort 4 of the CIE Program!
How to apply: https://www.innovatecochrane.com/programs
Can't attend an info session?
Reach out to us at connect@innovatecochrane.com to meet and discuss the program more intimately. This session will not be recorded.
Info Session #6 - CIE Program Cohort 4
The next cohort of the Community Innovation Ecosystem (CIE) Program launches in September. Come learn more about what Cohort 4 has to offer!
Hosted by Nathan Klassen, these information sessions offer deeper insight and conversation into what the program offers.
Is your organization ready to embrace its next stage of innovation and possibility?
We are now accepting applications for Cohort 4 of the CIE Program!
How to apply: https://www.innovatecochrane.com/programs
Can't attend an info session?
Reach out to us at connect@innovatecochrane.com to meet and discuss the program more intimately. This session will not be recorded.
Info Session #5 - CIE Program Cohort 4
The next cohort of the Community Innovation Ecosystem (CIE) Program launches in September. Come learn more about what Cohort 4 has to offer!
Hosted by Nathan Klassen, these information sessions offer deeper insight and conversation into what the program offers.
Is your organization ready to embrace its next stage of innovation and possibility?
We are now accepting applications for Cohort 4 of the CIE Program!
How to apply: https://www.innovatecochrane.com/programs
Can't attend an info session?
Reach out to us at connect@innovatecochrane.com to meet and discuss the program more intimately. This session will not be recorded.
Info Session #4 - CIE Program Cohort 4
The next cohort of the Community Innovation Ecosystem (CIE) Program launches in September. Come learn more about what Cohort 4 has to offer!
Hosted by Nathan Klassen, these information sessions offer deeper insight and conversation into what the program offers.
Is your organization ready to embrace its next stage of innovation and possibility?
We are now accepting applications for Cohort 4 of the CIE Program!
How to apply: https://www.innovatecochrane.com/programs
Can't attend an info session?
Reach out to us at connect@innovatecochrane.com to meet and discuss the program more intimately. This session will not be recorded.
Info Session #3 - CIE Program Cohort 4
The next cohort of the Community Innovation Ecosystem (CIE) Program launches in September. Come learn more about what Cohort 4 has to offer!
Hosted by Nathan Klassen, these information sessions offer deeper insight and conversation into what the program offers.
Is your organization ready to embrace its next stage of innovation and possibility?
We are now accepting applications for Cohort 4 of the CIE Program!
How to apply: https://www.innovatecochrane.com/programs
Can't attend an info session?
Reach out to us at connect@innovatecochrane.com to meet and discuss the program more intimately. This session will not be recorded.
START UP COCHRANE - JUNE 2026
WHEN: Join us on the FOURTH Tuesday night of each month, 7 PM – 9 PM at The Corner Coworking on Railway Street E in Cochrane, AB.
NOTE: EACH MONTH WE WILL UPDATE IF THERE WILL BE A TOPIC OR PRESENTER.
COST: Free
What can I do? How do I get involved?
For these events to be a success, and to grow the local #startup community, we need entrepreneurs at all stages of the startup & launch phases.
-Got a new idea?
-Have a concept you are curious about?
-Ready to pitch for funding?
-Looking to grow an existing business?
PLUS
-Have you launched a new business already?
-Are you an investor?
-Been involved in startups before? (Successful & less successful)
-Just plain curious?
Info Session #2 - CIE Program Cohort 4
The next cohort of the Community Innovation Ecosystem (CIE) Program launches in September. Come learn more about what Cohort 4 has to offer!
Hosted by Nathan Klassen, these information sessions offer deeper insight and conversation into what the program offers.
Is your organization ready to embrace its next stage of innovation and possibility?
We are now accepting applications for Cohort 4 of the CIE Program!
How to apply: https://www.innovatecochrane.com/programs
Can't attend an info session?
Reach out to us at connect@innovatecochrane.com to meet and discuss the program more intimately. This session will not be recorded.
Info Session #1 - CIE Program Cohort 4
The next cohort of the Community Innovation Ecosystem (CIE) Program launches in September. Come learn more about what Cohort 4 has to offer!
Hosted by Nathan Klassen, these information sessions offer deeper insight and conversation into what the program offers.
Is your organization ready to embrace its next stage of innovation and possibility?
We are now accepting applications for Cohort 4 of the CIE Program!
How to apply: https://www.innovatecochrane.com/programs
Can't attend an info session?
Reach out to us at connect@innovatecochrane.com to meet and discuss the program more intimately. This session will not be recorded.
Community Innovators - JUNE 2026
Our Community Innovators Spotlight Series is -
Join us for a special evening of stories, insights, and perspectives on what community growth, connection, and innovation means in Cochrane!
Every month, join host Nathan Klassen with new guests as they discuss and explore unique ways they are driving community growth and innovation.
You don't want to miss their unique perspectives on community collaboration.
Wednesday, JUNE 17, 2026.
June Topic: Culinary Innovation
Featuring:
Adam Heard - Chef & Owner, Chef H
Chris Hartman - Chef & Owner, Fence & Post
Callandra Caufield - Executive Director, Explore Cochrane
Register:
Tickets are $5 per person and they are limited!
Location:
Found Books & Shop - 206, 1st Street W
Time: Doors open at 6:30pm, with the discussion starting at 7pm.
Graduation and celebration - CIE COHORT III
Celebrating Our Community’s Innovators & Ecosystem!
As you know, we are celebrating the Cohort III Graduates of the CIE Program this Thursday, June 4th at The Common Works — and we would love to see you there!
This celebration is a chance to hear from our graduates on their experiences in the program and what they have their sights set on for their next innovative leap.
The event also includes a Spotlight Panel from members of the Cochrane Community Innovation Team (CCIT), speaking to the opportunities that exist across this thriving innovation ecosystem. You’ll hear from: Community Futures Centre West (Lauren Pearson), Explore Cochrane (Callandra Caufield), and The Town of Cochrane’s Engine Room (Shane Pegg).
A special thanks to Chef H for innovative & intentional hors d’oeuvres, Rocky View Brewing for the wine & beer selection (one drink ticket included with registration!), and The Common Works for sharing their community-centred space.
Founders Coffee - JUNE 2, 2026
Join us for a morning of networking at our FOUNDERS COFFEE event on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at SUNNY SIDE UP in Cochrane, at 7am. This event is free, but you buy your own breakfast or coffee.
Dates: The 1st Tuesday of each month
Time: 7am to 9am
Where: SUNNY SIDE UP COCHRANE, 205 1st Street W. in Cochrane, AB
START UP COCHRANE - MAY 2026
WHEN: Join us on the FOURTH Tuesday night of each month, 7 PM – 9 PM at The Corner Coworking on Railway Street E in Cochrane, AB.
NOTE: EACH MONTH WE WILL UPDATE IF THERE WILL BE A TOPIC OR PRESENTER.
COST: Free
What can I do? How do I get involved?
For these events to be a success, and to grow the local #startup community, we need entrepreneurs at all stages of the startup & launch phases.
-Got a new idea?
-Have a concept you are curious about?
-Ready to pitch for funding?
-Looking to grow an existing business?
PLUS
-Have you launched a new business already?
-Are you an investor?
-Been involved in startups before? (Successful & less successful)
-Just plain curious?
Founders Coffee - MAY 19, 2026
Join us for a morning of networking at our FOUNDERS COFFEE event on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at SUNNY SIDE UP in Cochrane, at 7am. This event is free, but you buy your own breakfast or coffee.
Dates: The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month
Time: 7am to 9am
Where: SUNNY SIDE UP COCHRANE, 205 1st Street W. in Cochrane, AB
Founders Coffee - MAY 5, 2026
Join us for a morning of networking at our FOUNDERS COFFEE event on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at SUNNY SIDE UP in Cochrane, at 7am. This event is free, but you buy your own breakfast or coffee.
Dates: The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month
Time: 7am to 9am
Where: SUNNY SIDE UP COCHRANE, 205 1st Street W. in Cochrane, AB
Cochrane & District Chamber of Commerce 2026 Trade Show
Join us on May 2nd & 3rd at the Cochrane & District Chamber of Commerce 2026 Trade Show from 10am to 4pm at the SLC Centre.
With over 100+ vendors, a Kids Fun Zone, fashion show, live entertainment, and daily prizes, there’s something for everyone!
Admission
Kids 12 & Under: FREE 13 & Up: $3/day
Bring the whole family and enjoy the best Cochrane has to offer.
START UP COCHRANE - APRIL 2026
WHEN: Join us on the FOURTH Tuesday night of each month, 7 PM – 9 PM at The Corner Coworking on Railway Street E in Cochrane, AB.
NOTE: EACH MONTH WE WILL UPDATE IF THERE WILL BE A TOPIC OR PRESENTER.
COST: Free
What can I do? How do I get involved?
For these events to be a success, and to grow the local #startup community, we need entrepreneurs at all stages of the startup & launch phases.
-Got a new idea?
-Have a concept you are curious about?
-Ready to pitch for funding?
-Looking to grow an existing business?
PLUS
-Have you launched a new business already?
-Are you an investor?
-Been involved in startups before? (Successful & less successful)
-Just plain curious?
Founders Coffee - APRIL 21, 2026
Join us for a morning of networking at our FOUNDERS COFFEE event on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at SUNNY SIDE UP in Cochrane, at 7am. This event is free, but you buy your own breakfast or coffee.
Dates: The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month
Time: 7am to 9am
Where: SUNNY SIDE UP COCHRANE, 205 1st Street W. in Cochrane, AB
Community Innovators - APRIL 2026
Our Community Innovators Spotlight Series is -
Join us for a special evening of stories, insights, and perspectives on what community growth, connection, and innovation means in Cochrane!
Every month, join host Nathan Klassen with new guests as they discuss and explore unique ways they are driving community growth and innovation.
You don't want to miss their unique perspectives on community collaboration.
Wednesday, APRIL 15, 2026.
Topic:
Neurodivergent Innovation:
Creating Space for Every Mind
Featuring:
Joanne McGilvray - Board President, Take A Bow Community Theatre
Register:
Tickets are $5 per person and they are limited!
Location:
Found Books & Shop - 206, 1st Street W.
Time: Doors open at 6:30pm, with the discussion starting at 7pm.
Founders Coffee - APRIL 7, 2026
Join us for a morning of networking at our FOUNDERS COFFEE event on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at SUNNY SIDE UP in Cochrane, at 7am. This event is free, but you buy your own breakfast or coffee.
Dates: The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month
Time: 7am to 9am
Where: SUNNY SIDE UP COCHRANE, 205 1st Street W. in Cochrane, AB
Connect with us
We’d love to hear from you!