| NEWS RELEASE
October 13, 2026 |
| Winnipeg, Manitoba – Building the strongest economy in the G7 requires the full and equal participation of women. Through the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES), the federal government is helping more women entrepreneurs access the financing, training and networks they need to succeed as we build a stronger, more competitive Canada.
Today, the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), announced $30 million in renewed funding for the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund. Through the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, four not-for-profit organizations are providing microloans of up to $50,000 to help women entrepreneurs start or grow their businesses. The organizations also provide robust wrap-around services that help women entrepreneurs navigate challenges and build sustainable businesses. The organizations delivering these services are:
Since launching in 2022, the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund has delivered nearly 1,600 loans totalling over $50 million to help women entrepreneurs reach their business goals. To continue removing barriers facing women entrepreneurs, including those in under-represented sectors, the Government of Canada announced in June 2026 funding for WES with $173.7 million over five years. Since its launch in 2018, WES has supported more than 600,000 women entrepreneurs across Canada. Women entrepreneurs are also benefiting from the federal government’s broader efforts to strengthen small businesses, including tariff relief measures, funding for AI adoption, red tape reduction and support for exporting to new markets. |
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ContactsErin Quevillon Media Relations |
CANADA NEWS RELEASE: Minister Valdez announces access to capital for women entrepreneurs
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