Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
Peace River and District Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Fiesta Mixer later this month, welcoming all entrepreneurs to celebrate Small Business Week Oct. 20-26.
“We wanted to provide a networking opportunity for our business community but do it in a way that might be a bit different than your typical networking event or at least different to how we have hosted them in the past,” explains Chamber executive director Reilly Bassendowski.
“Our intention is that the fiesta theme will create a more casual laid-back vibe to help make networking a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for the attendees.”
The networking event will be held on Oct. 23 at Peace River Brewing from 5-7 p.m. The event will feature a Mexican inspired buffet and door prizes.
“As the chamber of commerce, we love celebrating our members and business community by providing events that spotlight small businesses and facilitate connections among entrepreneurs, encouraging collaboration and mentorship,” she says.
“Celebrations like these can enhance the visibility of local businesses, helping them stand out and build their brand within the community,” she adds.
“Supporting businesses and helping them grow is who we are at our core so we will always take the opportunity to celebrate our network.”
The event is free to attend but registration will be required before Oct. 16 at 3 p.m. To register, contact the chamber office at (780) 624-4166 or email info@peaceriver chamber.com
“It’s a vibrant networking event designed to bring together like-minded business owners in a lively, engaging atmosphere,” Bassendowski says of the event.
“We want to provide the opportunity for local business owners to connect and share ideas with fellow entrepreneurs, fostering new relationships and potential collaborations while also expanding their professional network.”
She adds Small Business Week is celebrated to recognize and promote the vital role they play in the economy and communities.
“(It’s estimated) 98 per cent of businesses in Canada are small businesses,” she says.
“It’s important to recognize these business owners not only for their economic impact in our region but also for the hard work and perseverance it takes to be a business owner.”
The Fiesta Mixer has been planned in partnership with ATB Financial, the Business Development Bank of Canada, and Community Futures Peace Country.