Minister Announces $1.4 Million to Support Women Entrepreneurs in British Columbia

In a critical move to ensure the economic success of women entrepreneurs in British Columbia, the Honourable Joyce Murray, Minister of Digital Government, has announced $1.4 million in additional funding to support the adaptation and growth of women-owned businesses. This investment represents a top-up to the $6.3 million in Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES) funding previously provided to organizations in British Columbia.

As Canada marks the one year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more crucial than ever to support women entrepreneurs who have faced unique challenges during this time. The funding will be invested in an ecosystem of organizations that provide coaching, mentorship, and networking opportunities to women entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the crisis and access new markets.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Honourable Joyce Murray announced $1.4 million in additional funding to support women entrepreneurs in British Columbia.
  • This investment represents a top-up to the $6.3 million in Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES) funding previously provided to these organizations.
  • The funding will be invested in an ecosystem of organizations that provide coaching, mentorship, and networking opportunities to women entrepreneurs.
  • The Women's Enterprise Centre, a non-profit organization, hosted the event and will provide direct support to women entrepreneurs across the province.
  • The funding will help women entrepreneurs adapt and position their businesses for success, especially in rural communities and among immigrant and indigenous women entrepreneurs.
  • The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, stated that investing in women entrepreneurs is critical for economic recovery.

Statistics:

  • $1.4 million in additional funding has been announced to support women entrepreneurs in British Columbia.
  • $6.3 million in Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES) funding has been previously provided to organizations in British Columbia.
  • The Women's Enterprise Centre has placed a strong emphasis on providing support to women entrepreneurs in rural communities, immigrants, and indigenous women entrepreneurs.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on women business owners, with this funding aiming to provide critical support to this group.

Sources:

  • The Honourable Joyce Murray, Minister of Digital Government. (2021). Minister Murray announces $1.4 million to support women entrepreneurs in British Columbia.
  • The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade. (2021). Quotes from Minister Ng, SyndiGate Media Inc.
  • Women's Enterprise Centre. (2021). Supporting women entrepreneurs through a collaborative ecosystem, 2021.
  • CBC News. (2021). Feds announce $1.4M to help B.C. women entrepreneurs adapt to pandemic.