The City of Birmingham announced a series of events for Small Business Week 2026, scheduled for May 3 through May 9, to connect local entrepreneurs with resources to grow their businesses.
“At a time when entrepreneurs are navigating rising costs, limited access to capital, and increasing competition, the City of Birmingham is taking bold action,” city officials said in a recent announcement. “From May 3 through May 9, the City will host Small Business Week 2026, an initiative designed to connect entrepreneurs directly to the resources, relationships, and opportunities needed to grow and scale.”
The week’s theme is “Build Big: Elevate Your Vision. Empower Your Journey.” City officials said the event is intended to bring together entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, lenders, corporate partners and ecosystem builders in a coordinated effort to strengthen Birmingham’s small-business ecosystem.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Birmingham’s economy,” said Coreata’ R. Houser, director of innovation and economic opportunity. “This week is about more than celebration. It’s about creating real pathways for growth, ensuring our entrepreneurs have the resources, relationships and support they need to succeed.”
Featured events include wellness experiences, conversations with the Birmingham Business Alliance, a nonprofit conference and networking opportunities. The week also will include events focused on young entrepreneurs, women in business and Black homeowners.
“This is where vision meets execution,” said Monique Shorts, senior program manager for the Office of Business Diversity and Opportunity. “We are creating intentional spaces where entrepreneurs can connect, access opportunities, and take meaningful steps to grow their businesses.”
People interested in participating in Small Business Week 2026 can register through the Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity.
