Small Business Week in the Pikes Peak region will fete the entrepreneurs, innovators and leaders powering the local economy and offer opportunities to help grow their businesses.

This year’s theme, “Navigate the Small Business Safari,” will guide local innovators and trailblazers through the ever-changing landscape of enterprise. Entrepreneurs will explore new ideas, connect with others in the community, and gain insights to navigate their professional paths ahead.

Small Business Week runs May 4-8, presented by U.S. Bank and hosted by the Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado, the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC, the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy — fueling innovation, creating jobs and shaping the character of our community,” the event registration website states.

Weeklong festivities include workshops, networking events, educational opportunities and the recognition and celebration of entrepreneurial leaders who are strengthening the regional economy.

Small Business Week begins May 4, with a kickoff celebration and awards presentation from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

Opening night honors the finalists and announces the winners of the 2026 Small Business Awards. The award categories are small business person of the year, small business champion of the year, young entrepreneur of the year, family-owned small business of the year, micro business of the year and veteran-owned small business of the year.

“The strength of our economy starts with our small businesses who are the driving force behind our community’s growth and vibrancy. This year’s finalists reflect the innovation, determination and leadership that make the Pikes Peak region such a dynamic place to do business. We’re proud to celebrate their impact and the role they play in shaping our region’s future,” Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC President and CEO Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer said in a news release from her organization.

The networking event features a cash bar and appetizers. Tours will also be offered of the zoo’s new animal enclosure and event space.

A discussion on artificial intelligence and how it is transforming work habits is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. May 5 at Tava House in Woodland Park.

According to a report from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, released in August, 58% of small businesses say they use generative AI, up from 40% in 2024 and more than double the adoption rate in 2023. The report also found that 96% of small business owners plan to adopt emerging technologies, including AI and cryptocurrencies.

On May 6, a small business listening tour will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Catalyst Campus. The collaborative session will connect businessowners with policymakers to discuss entrepreneurial challenges and opportunities.

Entrepreneurs will give live pitches and compete for a $50,000 prize package of AWS AI services during a pitch competition from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. May 7 at Mentally STRONG. The competition is in partnership with Predictive AI, highlighting small businesses and startups leveraging AI to solve real-world challenges.

Spots are limited. Interested businesses can submit an application for the pitch competition online at luma.com/73pr747j.

May 8 is the closing celebration from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Trainwreck. This networking celebration includes a cash bar, light refreshments and door prizes.

Tickets are $25 for each event or $100 for a weeklong pass. For more information, visit pikespeaksbw.com.