March 11th, 2020 | Startup Canada, Canada’s leading entrepreneurship organization, announced today its the launch of its Women Entrepreneurs Program in partnership with The Coca-Cola Foundation – an initiative aimed at supporting 10,000 women, particularly from marginalized backgrounds, to start and scale thriving businesses through education, training mentorship, support, and resources.
Presented during the celebrations of International Women’s Month, the Women Entrepreneurs Program is a natural extension of Startup Canada’s existing support for women entrepreneurs from coast to coast to coast, and is designed to empower women through entrepreneurship.
“While it’s true business is a tool for change, this only applies to those who have the tools to make change.” said Kayla Isabelle, Startup Canada’s Executive Director. “The Women Entrepreneurs Program will give women entrepreneurs access to the support, networks, advice, and education they need to grow their businesses in Canada and beyond.”
The sentiment is also shared among public officials: “Women-owned businesses contribute so much to our national economy, but still face unique barriers to success,” said The Hon. Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade.
“Startup Canada and the Coca-Cola Foundation’s 10,000 Women Entrepreneurs Program will help bridge the divide and advance gender equality in the Canadian economy. Our Women Entrepreneurship Strategy also works to advance these goals — to empower women business leaders and make Canada more competitive in the global marketplace. I look forward to hearing about the future successes of these incredible women entrepreneurs.”
Startup Canada is ready to support the current generation of women entrepreneurs in forging the path forward for women-led businesses in this country, and make crystal-clear next generation’s vision to see, believe, and be the leaders of tomorrow.
Women Entrepreneurs Program Elements
The program includes the following support resources:
- Be inspired by Startup Canada’s Women Entrepreneur Icons.
- Find support for your business through the THRIVE Podcast for Women Entrepreneurs and our guide; Resources for Women Entrepreneurs.
- Grow your knowledge, skills and network through online and in-person events.
- Get recognized by applying for the CANIE Awards.
- Celebrate with us during International Women’s Month.
- Explore research and insights from our latest reports.
- Connect with us for support from our Help Desk.
Visit startupCan.ca/womensday to learn more and sign up. Join the conversation using #StartupWomen and #EachForEqual.
For more information and for media inquiries, please contact:
Micah Rakoff Bellman
Marketing and Communications Manager
1-613-627-0787 ext. 103
micah.rakoff.bellman@startupcan.ca
About Startup Canada
Startup Canada is Canada’s entrepreneurship organization. Startup Canada promotes and supports the success and growth of Canada’s 3.5 million entrepreneurs, with a mandate to foster economic growth, competitiveness, and prosperity through entrepreneurship. Since launching, Startup Canada’s programming has directly supported more than 250,000 entrepreneurs and 50 grassroots Startup Community organizations. Working with over 750 ecosystem partners, including accelerators, incubators, research parks, educational institutions, economic development agencies, associations, and government programs, Startup Canada serves entrepreneurs from all backgrounds, industries, and stages of development, with a network reflective of Canada’s diverse population.