Written by Abigail Caballero, Marketing and Communications Specialist
After months of snow, rain and unpredictable weather, summer in Alberta is something we look forward to all year. It’s a season for Saturday morning farmers’ markets, evening festivals and major events like the Calgary Stampede. But these gatherings are more than just places to shop or spend the day. They are important spaces where entrepreneurs can connect with customers, showcase their products, test new ideas and build their presence.
Our small business landscape is much bigger than many people realize. According to the Government of Canada’s 2025 Key Small Business Statistics report, Alberta had 137,182 small employer businesses as of December 2024, representing 98.3 per cent of employer businesses in the province. These entrepreneurs bring new products, services and ideas to towns, cities and neighbourhoods across Alberta, reflecting the creativity and determination behind our province’s small business sector.
This summer, we’re getting out into the community to celebrate and connect with entrepreneurs. Our team will be attending select markets and events across the province to meet small businesses where they are, learn more about what they’re building and share information about the free support available through Business Link Alberta.
Connecting With the Right Resources
Entrepreneurship can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. When you’re managing products, sales, marketing, operations and everything in between, it can be hard to find time to look for support, know where to start or decide which resources are right for your business.
Finding the right support can make a meaningful difference. After months of planning, these markets, festivals and local events offer small business owners a chance to connect with customers, answer questions, gather feedback and see people experience their products or services in real time.
For new entrepreneurs, these events may be one of the first opportunities to introduce their business to the public. For established businesses, they can help increase visibility, build local recognition and stay connected to the communities they serve.
Meeting Entrepreneurs Where They Are
Our services are designed to help people at different stages of their business, whether they are exploring an idea, preparing to launch, growing their customer base or looking for ways to strengthen their operations.
For entrepreneurs selling at markets and events, support can look different depending on where they are on their journey. Some may need help understanding their target market. Others may be thinking about pricing, permits, marketing, customer experience, bookkeeping, digital presence or how to turn seasonal momentum into long-term growth.
Business Link Alberta’s role is to help small business owners think through their next steps and connect them with relevant resources. When we attend community events, we are not just there to promote our services. We are there to listen, learn and understand the needs of entrepreneurs across Alberta.
Our Team in the Community
At Business Link Alberta, we connect with entrepreneurs and small business owners every day, whether they’re meeting with us for the first time, completing a program or joining a webinar. We see the many steps that go into building a business, from developing an idea and researching the market, to preparing a booth for a first market or event.
If you see our team at an event, come say hello. We would be happy to hear about your business, learn what you are working on, and help connect you with support. Whether you have a specific question or simply want to learn more about what Business Link Alberta offers, our team is here to help.
As our summer plans continue to come together, we will keep looking for opportunities to connect with entrepreneurs in different communities.
Where to Support Local This Summer
Across Alberta, there are many farmers’ markets, summer markets, craft fairs, artisan events, festivals and community gatherings worth checking out. These events offer a chance to support local businesses, discover new products and connect with the entrepreneurs behind them.
Calgary and Area
Calgary Farmers’ Market West
Date: Open year-round, Wednesday to Saturday
Location: 25 Greenbriar Dr NW, Calgary, AB T3B 5X4
What to expect: A modern year-round market with local vendors, fresh food, artisan goods, home décor, gifts and dining options.
403Market
Date: Saturday, August 2
Location: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland, 750 9 Ave. SE, Calgary, AB
What to expect: A vibrant outdoor market featuring local artisans and vendors, handmade pottery, woodwork, textiles, family-friendly activities, bouncy castles and interactive play areas.
Crossroads Market
Date: Open year-round, Friday to Sunday
Location: 1235 26 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 1R7
What to expect: Calgary based Market for food, locally grown fresh produce, artisan crafts and unique pieces and antiques.
Fresh & Local Market & Kitchens at Avenida
Date: Open year-round, Thursday to Sunday
Location: 12445 Lake Fraser Dr SE, Calgary, AB T2J 7A4
What to expect: A Calgary market and diverse food hall featuring food, locally grown produce, artisan crafts, antiques and unique finds.
Edmonton and Area
Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market
Date: Open year-round, Saturdays and Sundays
Location: 10310 83 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 5C3
What to expect: A classic brick warehouse featuring local vendors, fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, handmade products, crafts and more.
Queen Mary’s Market
Date: Open year-round, Saturdays and Sundays
Location: 12011 111 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5G 0E7
What to expect: Edmonton’s largest indoor market, featuring local vendors, vintage finds, artisan goods, collectibles, food options and family-friendly shopping.
Edmonton Heritage Festival
Date: Saturday, August 1 to Monday, August 3
Location: Hawrelak Park, 9330 Groat Rd NW, Edmonton, AB
What to expect: A three-day multicultural festival with cultural pavilions, global food, live performances, crafts and family-friendly activities.
K-Days
Date: Friday, July 17 to Sunday, July 26
Location: Edmonton EXPO Centre and Exhibition Grounds, 7515 118 Ave. NW, Edmonton, AB
What to expect: A 10-day summer festival featuring midway rides and games, live music, food, shopping at the K-Days Market, exhibits and family-friendly entertainment.
How Business Link Alberta Can Help
If you’re getting ready for a farmers’ market, festival, or community event, a little preparation can help you make the most of it. Clear signage, simple pricing, product information and an easy way for customers to follow up can help people remember your business after the event.
It can also help to track what you learn, from which products sell, to the questions customers ask, and the feedback they share. These insights can support future decisions around marketing, product development and your next event.
Business Link Alberta offers free one-on-one support, resources and programs for Alberta entrepreneurs. Our team can help you better understand your market, explore ways to reach customers, and find resources that support your business goals.
Book a free meeting today to get started.
