SMALL BUSINESS WEEK 2026

THRIVING THROUGH CHANGE

Join us as we celebrate Small Business Week 2026. Hear from business and industry leaders as they discuss the topic; Thriving Through Change - Empowering Black Entrepreneurs to Adapt, Compete, and Grow in Canada's Evolving Economy.

CoBSMEs Business Masterclass

Learn from Business Leaders

Gain practical insights and perspectives from experienced business and industry leaders on navigating change and identifying new opportunities.

Connect & Network

Build meaningful connections with entrepreneurs, professionals, industry leaders, potential partners and members of Canada’s Black business community.

Discover Growth Opportunities

Explore strategies, resources and opportunities designed to help Black-owned businesses adapt, compete and grow in Canada’s evolving economy.

About The Event

Take Your Business To The Next Level

Small Business Week 2026 is a celebration of Canadian entrepreneurship, innovation and the resilience of small businesses. This year’s theme, “Thriving Through Change – Empowering Black Entrepreneurs to Adapt, Compete, and Grow in Canada’s Evolving Economy,” brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, professionals and industry stakeholders for meaningful conversations about the future of business.

Meet Our Speakers

Meet the leaders, entrepreneurs and community builders sharing their knowledge, experience and perspectives at Small Business Week 2026.

Tony Playter - Owner of Outlaw Communications SPEAKER

Tony Playter

Owner, Outlaw Communications

Tony is a strategic leader and accredited business communicator of Métis descent with more than 35 years of experience in leadership, communications, media relations, stakeholder engagement, marketing, and organizational strategy.

As former CEO of the Regina & District Chamber of Commerce and owner of Outlaw Communications, he has worked with organizations including the RCMP Heritage Centre, Regina Airport Authority, SGI, Saskatchewan Roughriders, City of Regina – Mayor’s Office, Canadian Blood Services, and REAL, bringing a proven ability to navigate complex challenges, build strong relationships, and deliver meaningful results.

Beyond his professional expertise, Tony is a passionate storyteller, mentor, and community builder who believes in authentic leadership, collaboration, and giving back. His extensive volunteer and board service with organizations such as Tourism Saskatchewan, the Clarence Campeau Development Fund, Reconciliation Regina, the Canadian Red Cross, SMEDCO, Crime Stoppers, and Regina Thunder reflects his personal commitment to strengthening communities and creating opportunities for others to succeed.

Talitha McCloskey - Co-Founder of RaiseHER SPEAKER

Talitha McCloskey

Co-Founder, RaiseHER

Talitha (she/her) is a relationship builder, advocate, and community enthusiast who channels her passion for connection into meaningful impact.

As Co-Founder of RaiseHER Community and Senior Manager of Impact Partnerships & Government Relations at Growclass, she empowers others to dream big and succeed. A proud board and committee member with organizations like the YWCA and Venture for Canada, Talitha also juggles roles as a freelance writer, partner to Mitch, and devoted mama to her sons.

Rooted in a deep love for community and advocacy, Talitha is dedicated to creating spaces where everyone can thrive. She believes in the power of standing up and showing up for others, building a network of women united in mutual support and strength.

Tim Otitoju - President of Realty Hub Brokerage SPEAKER

Tim Otitoju

President, Realty Hub Brokerage

Tim Otitoju, MBA, LLM, is an entrepreneur, REALTOR®, and President of Realty Hub Brokerage. Originally from Nigeria and proud to call Saskatchewan home for the last 32 years, Tim has built his career and businesses through resilience, adaptability, continuous learning, and a strong belief in creating opportunities for others.

As a business leader, Tim is passionate about building an organizational culture where people can grow, succeed, and pursue their ambitions. His leadership extends beyond real estate through board service, governance and business coaching, and mentorship, where he draws on his own entrepreneurial experiences to help others navigate challenges, recognize opportunities, and grow.

Tim also created a podcast focused on conversations about business, leadership, and personal development. His experience building a life and career in Canada gives him a personal perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing immigrant and Black entrepreneurs as they adapt, compete, and build for the future.

Arla Cameron - Director at PrairiesCan SPEAKER

Arla Cameron

Director, PrairiesCan

Arla Cameron joined PrairiesCan as Director, SK Place Based Economic Development for the Saskatchewan region in 2022.

Arla has close to 20 years of provincial and federal public service experience focused on strengthening Saskatchewan’s economy. Prior to joining PrairiesCan she was Director of Policy, Trade and Export Development with the Government of Saskatchewan.

Through various roles, Arla helped expand the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program, improve credential recognition for foreign and Canadian trained workers, negotiated several Canadian trade agreements and led successful dispute resolutions to resolve trade barriers in several industry sectors.

Arla is a graduate of the University of Regina (BA International Studies) and the University of London, England (MSc in Agricultural Economics).

Why you should attend?

What You Can Expect

Come ready to learn, connect and discover new possibilities for your business.

01

Learn

Get practical knowledge, fresh perspectives and strategies that can help you respond confidently to changes in the business environment.

02

Connect

Meet entrepreneurs, professionals, business leaders and potential collaborators. Expand your network and build relationships that can create new possibilities.

03

Grow

Discover ideas, resources and opportunities that can help you strengthen your business, reach new markets and position yourself for sustainable growth.

04

Be Inspired

Hear from people with real-world business experience and gain the motivation to take your next big step.

05

Stay Competitive

Understand how changing economic conditions, consumer expectations and emerging opportunities can affect your business—and learn how to stay ahead.

Ready to Thrive Through Change?

Join Small Business Week 2026 and connect with the people, ideas and opportunities that can help take your business to the next level.

Register for the Event →