Interested in Hosting a Community Event?
The original Startup Week was formed by a Give First mantra which meant it was about helping other founders wade through challenges that seasoned entrepreneurs had experienced. We want to invite you to step up to this occasion to host an event that embodies the Give First mantra.
Hosting a Community Event
Your event could be a panel, workshop, discussion, social or even a podcast episode. Get creative, this is an opportunity to step up, share knowledge, and inspire the tech and innovation ecosystem in Edmonton!
Startup Week is about giving back to the community, not directly selling your services or talent. Have fun, meet awesome folks, and find new ways to connect.
This year’s theme is Step In. Step Up. Step Forward.
Need a venue? Explore your options here!
Step Up to the Occassion
Accepted events will receive a community kit for hosting an awesome in-person or virtual event.
Your event will be reviewed within 48 business hours of submission.
COMMUNITY EVENT FAQS
GENERAL EVENT QUESTIONS
What happens when my event is approved?
You will receive a Community Events Kit which will walk you through how to setup, promote, and build excitement for your event.
Do I have to pay to host my community event?
Depending on the type of event, activations, venue; there might be costs associated with those aspects.
If you have the option to activate your office/space consider hosting a session there!
Do I have to attend the whole Edmonton Startup Week?
Nope! Although, we strongly encourage you to participate in Edmonton Startup Week.
BRANDING AND PROMOTION
What marketing materials will be provided?
You will be provided the Community Events Kit: graphical templates, various social media copy, hashtags, and more!
Edmonton Unlimited’s logo and branding is not directly associated with Edmonton Startup Week.
Am I allowed to create my own event graphics?
Approved community-led events, will receive branded graphic templates to be used across different channels.
Will my event be listed on the main event calendar or website?
All approved community-led events happening during Edmonton Startup Week will be live on the Edmonton Startup Week Calendar.
Can I have my company’s logo on materials or slides?
Absolutely! Since it’s your event, you’re welcome to include your company logo. We provide Edmonton Startup Week templates for approved events, and you’re encouraged to incorporate your branding within those templates.
Can I take photos or videos during my event?
Can I host my event on a different platform other than Luma?
All of the Edmonton Startup Week Events are housed in the dedicated Edmonton Startup Week Luma Calendar.
Will Edmonton Unlimited help promote my event?
Community-led events will be amplified across Edmonton Startup Week channels.
LOGISTICS
Can I host my event at my office or co-working space?
Yes! Any venue that’s accessible and appropriate will work.
Do I have to book my own venue?
Yes. Unfortunately, we are unable to host every community event in the Edmonton Unlimited space, therefore we have compiled a diverse list of venues across central Edmonton.
What if I want to host my event over multiple days during the week?
Yes, you can add multiple dates to your event form. Please identify all dates and times.
Is there a minimum or maximum number of attendees required?
Nope! This will be venue/event dependent. Our suggested venue list includes venues with varying capacity.
Can I charge attendees a fee to attend my event?
Startup Week was built off of a give first mentality.
Edmonton Startup Week events are free to attend as it removes financial barriers and encourages broader participation.
What happens if I need to cancel or change my event?
You are responsible for managing your event on luma.
How long should the event be?
60 minutes is ideal for workshops and panels, allowing some buffer time at the start and end for Q&A or networking after the formal portion is important.
Can I offer food or drinks at my event?
Yes – but you, as the host, are responsible for organizing and paying for any catering, permits, or insurance required.
Should I bring my own tech or AV gear?
If your venue doesn’t provide it, yes. Always confirm what’s included—screens, microphones, adapters, etc.—before the event.
What if no one shows up?
Edmonton Startup Week is a known event that occurs around the same time every year. To ensure a strong attendance, promote your event widely, send reminders, and be ready to run with whoever shows up.
SUPPORT
What support will Edmonton Unlimited provide before or during my event?
Upon approval of your event, the Edmonton Startup Week Committee will provide you a Community Events Kit.
Will Edmonton Unlimited provide volunteers or staff?
No, approved community-led event are expected to manage their own event.
POST-EVENT
Do I need to submit feedback or an event recap?
Yes. Please ensure the “post-event feedback” toggle is selected when setting up your event in Luma.
At the end of Edmonton Startup Week you will receive a survey to fill out about your event, attendance vs registration and overall experience working with Edmonton Unlimited. This survey will be given to you immediately after Startup Week concludes.
Questions? Email [email protected] to connect with our planning committee.
