Local Business Growth: Prince Albert’s downtown upgrades helped land La Pizza 365, with owner Junaid Mohammed citing Central Avenue’s shift to two-way traffic and nearby office demand as key reasons for opening his first Canadian shop. Community Fundraising: Weyburn Communithon’s online auction is live ahead of the Oct. 23–24 telethon, with 29 packages from local creators and small businesses supporting eight charities. Small-Business Awards: Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade named 24 finalists for the 2026 Business Excellence Awards, spanning categories from 1–10 employees to large employers and including new business nominees. Entrepreneurship & Innovation: UVic’s Startup Showcase drew nearly 200 people to see student and alumni ventures, with booths and panels focused on commercialization and IP. Policy & Support for Entrepreneurs: Ottawa is inviting proposals for a Women Entrepreneurship Strategy Ecosystem Fund, aiming to back women-led non-profit and entrepreneurship projects. Trade & Tech Pressure: A new study from the University of Ottawa links affective generative AI use with mental health challenges in youth, raising questions for digital literacy and youth support. Business Finance: Purpose Investments set final September 2026 distribution rates for multiple cash and savings funds, with ex-distribution dated Sept. 25.