Working across sectors – from tourism to manufacturing - and in every region, Canada’s women entrepreneurs are making an enormous impact on our economy and in our communities. Yet many face barriers, both in accessing meaningful business advice and support, and securing the necessary funding.
The WEOC National Loan Program is working to address these barriers. In Manitoba our partners at WeMB guide women entrepreneurs on their business journey, providing them with relevant and timely supports available through the life of the business. WeMB provides loans up to $150,000 and when combined with WEOC’s $50,000 in funding, an entrepreneur may be able to access up to $200,000 for her business.
“We recognize that support means different things to different people, so we look to be as flexible as possible in meeting the entrepreneur’s unique needs,” explains Alison Kirkland, CEO of Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada.
This could mean securing financing to start a dream food brand or expand a healthcare clinic. With a robust list of eligible uses, the WEOC National Loan Program is a transparent, low-barrier option that has already supported more than 300 women in 160-plus communities.
“The program is different than other lending options,” offers Kirkland. “We haven’t set a minimum credit score – rather we look at the business and entrepreneur as a whole. And we are mindful of the information we are asking entrepreneurs to provide and the forms they need to complete.”
The program also helps entrepreneurs access resources and training to build their business plans, increase their financial literacy, and access guidance and mentorship.
“It can be a game changer for women entrepreneurs,” says Kirkland.
Ready to get started? Book a meeting with the expert advisors at WeMB, who can walk you through all stages of the WEOC loan application process, providing business guidance and support along the way.
Email an advisor at info@wemb.ca. Looking for more information before you get started? Visit weoc.ca/loan-program