COMMUNITY EVENTS
GIVE FIRST
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 FOR EDMONTON STARTUP WEEK 2026
YOUR 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!
THE OPPORTUNITY
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.
THEME
Step In, Step Up, Step Forward continues to shape how we support founders, strengthen connections, and create opportunities across Edmonton’s innovation ecosystem.
VENUES
Explore your options around the city. Want to partner with us and host your event in our space? View our sponsorship page for more infromation.
Here's How it Works
HOST YOUR EDMONTON STARTUP WEEK 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 which includes graphical assets & various social media copy.
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 a kit that includes branded graphic templates & assets 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?
Yes, and we encourage it! Tag us on the Edmonton Startup Week LinkedIn and Instagram. When you post, use Startup Week hashtags provided in the kit!
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?
Every community-led event will be featured on the Edmonton Startup Week 2026 Luma Calendar. We encourage you to promote the event on social media and tag us so we can help amplify it where appropriate.
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. That said, If there are any changes to your event, please update your Luma event accordingly. When you cancel an event in Luma, it automatically notifies attendees and gives you the option to send a custom email.
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, as the host you are responsible for organizing and paying for any catering, permits, or insurance required.
Should I bring my own tech or AV gear?
Yes, if your venue doesn’t provide it. 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 events are expected to provide their own volunteers and or staff.
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.
After the event is complete, the community host will receive a survey to fill out about your event, attendance, registration and overall experience working with Edmonton Unlimited.
Questions? Email [email protected] to connect with our planning committee.