AI Startup Pivot: Two founders raised $3.2M for OmniAI, then scrapped it after realizing the “big vision” wasn’t there—now they’re pitching a new banking AI agent startup, Monumint, to investors. Small Business Funding & Hiring: The federal government opened applications for the 2026 Women’s Economic and Leadership Opportunities Fund, with $100M aimed at removing barriers for women in leadership and high-growth fields like AI and skilled trades. Local Business Growth Programs: Kumon is bringing 500+ franchise owners to its Calgary instructors conference, focused on student outcomes and Kumon Connect tools. Procurement for Canadian Firms: An op-ed argues hospitals should use “buy-Canadian” procurement to keep more public spending in Canadian private companies. Tech Infrastructure Tensions: Residents in Olds, Alta. are challenging a proposed major AI data centre campus, echoing broader concerns over land, water, noise and emissions. Payments Reliability Lesson: Australia’s Telstra outage disrupted services like EFTPOS for small merchants, underscoring the need for resilient digital infrastructure. SME-Friendly Payroll Tools: Wagepoint and Xero announced a connected payroll/accounting experience for Canadian small businesses. Community Entrepreneurship: Cornwall’s Summer Company program showcased young entrepreneurs making real sales and building business plans. Women’s Entrepreneurship in Alberta: Canada Invests $5.6M to expand support for Black entrepreneurs in Alberta.