WBE Canada’s Post

🌟 What a day of action, learning, and inspiration at the Regional Forum on Women’s Entrepreneurship, supported by ESCAP and the Government of Canada Global Affairs Canada | Affaires mondiales Canada ! 🚀 The forum highlighted the following key factors that drive women's entrepreneurship: 💛 Prioritizing women’s entrepreneurship in economic agendas 💛 Innovative finance mechanisms 💛 Digital skills 💛 Partnerships and collaboration among diverse stakeholders 💛 Tailored solutions for each context Let's champion #womenentrepreneurs and create inclusive environments for their success! Read more here:https://buff.ly/3URhelW 💼💪 #GenderEquality #SDG5

Did you know that the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce is recognised in the NSW Aboriginal Procurement Policy as a certifying body of Indigenous businesses? 'Identifying an Aboriginal business For the purpose of this policy, an Aboriginal business is one that has at least 50 per cent Aboriginal ownership and that is recognised through an appropriate organisation, such as Supply Nation or the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (NSWICC).’ If you have a business that is majority Indigenous owned and controlled based in NSW or doing work in NSW that is not already part of the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, then October is the perfect opportunity to explore what the NSWICC can offer you and your business. The NSWICC is the Peak body for Indigenous Business in NSW and a powerful voice for the needs of Indigenous Entrepreneurs, Business owners and Enterprising Communities. Over the last two decades, the NSWICC has created a ‘One Stop Shop’ model where Indigenous Business Owners, Government and Industry come together to build, develop and grow the NSW Indigenous business sector. The NWICC offers a range of services and support to Indigenous Entrepreneurs and Business Owners and during October you can explore this offering with a 𝟏𝟐 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩!* *Conditions apply Check out the details on how to apply below 👇🏼 #IndigenousBusinessMonth #supportindigenousbusiness #NSWICC #IndigenousLeadership #BusinessDevelopment #BusinessGrowth #MakingOurMark

🌍 Collaboration for Progress: Supporting Women in International Trade 🌍 This afternoon, I had the pleasure of attending a meeting between Global Affairs Canada | Affaires mondiales Canada, represented by Catalina Cañas Yañez, Joanne Bertrand and Lee-Anne Hermann, and OWIT Ottawa, represented by my fellow OWIT Ottawa Board member and Chapter President, Nathalie Bradbury, and myself. We discussed Nathalie’s recent testimony to the Standing Committee on International Trade (CIIT), which highlighted the challenges women entrepreneurs face in scaling their businesses and participating in global trade. From funding gaps to access to markets, these barriers are significant—but not insurmountable. A key takeaway from our conversation was the importance of collaboration. By working together, organizations like TCS/BWIT, OWIT, EDC, and others can foster impactful solutions. As part of the growing info exchange, the GAC team shared details about an upcoming Export Development Canada | Exportation et développement Canada webinar, "Grow your global business with Canada's trade team," which will explore ways to connect women entrepreneurs with the resources and networks they need to succeed internationally. When networks, organizations, and leaders unite, we can: ✔️ Increase awareness of trade opportunities for women entrepreneurs. ✔️ Advocate for inclusive trade policies and funding programs. ✔️ Build platforms that connect women-led businesses with global markets and partners. This meeting was a testament to the power of dialogue and partnership in creating meaningful progress. Together, we can drive change, empower women entrepreneurs, and build a more inclusive global trade ecosystem. 🌟 #WomenInTrade #InclusiveTrade #Collaboration #OWITOttawa #BWIT #WomenEntrepreneurs #GlobalBusiness #Networking #TradeOpportunities

Economic reconciliation is crucial for fostering #inclusive #economic #growth, and ensuring that Indigenous Peoples hold leadership positions is a key part of that. According to our #Scorecard report (https://bit.ly/3vEuTCX), representation of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis in management positions ⬇ decreased to 2.4% in 2023 from 2.7% the previous year. Tabatha Bull, President and CEO of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business emphasizes the importance of understanding why these numbers declined and suggests three ways for corporate Canada to transform their approach to #recruiting and #retaining Indigenous leadership: 💡 1) Change the decision-making process at the board level. Consider embracing consensus decision-making and recognize that Indigenous Peoples may take time to assess the long-term impact of decisions on future generations. 💡 2) Focus on recruiting for potential, not just experience. Relying solely on a candidate's years of experience will restrict the pool of Indigenous talent. 💡 3) Prioritize intentional training and development. Ensure Indigenous hires receive the necessary training to prepare them for leadership roles. 📺 View Tabatha's full comments starting at 2:23:00 https://bit.ly/3Wv8AZI ✍ Join the conversation. What does economic growth mean to you? #GrowthforAllCdns #BetterFutureforCanada First Nations Finance Authority, First Nations Major Projects Coalition Jesse McCormick, BlackNorth Initiative, Dahabo Ahmed-Omer, Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation, Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC), FCC / FAC, Justine Hendricks, ACCES Employment, Heather Scoffield Patty Hajdu, Jamie Schmale Blake Desjarlais,

Following last year’s success, the Women International Network (WIN) Programme is back for 2025. The Women’s International Network (WIN) Programme brings together a closed network of trailblazing female entrepreneurs, building lasting connections that fuel success and helping them to access new markets overseas. The Programme activity covers the factors we know women need support with around: self-assurance and bridging the confidence gap; understanding the export process while building an export plan for their own business; and an in-depth funding and investment masterclass. They can then take their learning to explore a market in Europe on an insight trade mission. The magic is in the network itself as they connect with women taking the same steps for their businesses overseas.   Registration link: https://lnkd.in/duW_C2tw     Why should female-led businesses join? Because they will gain:  Increased clarity in terms of business exporting direction  Strategic tips to achieve personal and business goals  Greater confidence in skills and abilities  Enhanced pitching and communication skills  Invaluable contacts and connection via an ongoing and supportive network of female peers engaged in exporting Support from a pool of dedicated DBT Trade Advisers and Export Champions    Now open to businesses based across the UK, the programme will include three in-person events that will be held locally between January and May 2025 and the optional trade mission to Europe. Closing date is 30th November.

The recent formation of the South African cabinet marks a historic moment for our nation, showcasing an unprecedented level of diversity where smaller parties are included in critical roles in the Government of National Unity (GNU). As we celebrate this milestone, it's a powerful reminder of the strength that unity through diversity brings to every sector, including business. At U-Vita, we believe that diversity is not only a reflection of society but also a critical driver of success. Here’s why the composition of our new government cabinet is a beacon for businesses: 1. Representation Matters A government that reflects the diversity of the wishes of the citizens ensures that all voices are heard and considered. This principle is equally important in business, where diverse representation leads to more inclusive decision-making. 2. Innovation Through Inclusion Imagine the discussion for the new government over the last month. The wide range of perspectives, philosophies and values must have challenged the final decision. Businesses thrive when they embrace diverse viewpoints. Inclusion enables creativity and innovation, essential for staying competitive in a dynamic market. 3. Building Trust The new Government of National Unity with deputy ministers from opposing parties will require high levels of trust. This diverse government needs to build trust in itself and mirror that trust and confidence among its citizens. Similarly, businesses that prioritise diversity and inclusion build stronger relationships with their customers, employees, and partners. 4. Economic Growth Economic growth is never guaranteed however with greater accountability due to the diversity of parties in leadership economic growth could follow. With different ideology's, a broad spectrum of ideas and experiences can be leveraged to solve complex challenges and seize new opportunities. 5. A Model for the Future Our new government cabinet sets a powerful example for the next generation of leaders, demonstrating that party diversity in one portfolio creates a mandate which is a key component of effective leadership and governance going forward. I am inspired by the progress made at the national level over the last month and are personally committed in my own journey toward ensuring greater diversity and inclusion. When businesses, like all people in South Africa decide that "diverse people unite", we create a brighter, more prosperous future for all. Celebrate this new era of leadership in your own organisation and community. Foster a culture of unity through diversity and prepare yourself for an exciting and prosperous future. #DiversityAndInclusion #Leadership #BusinessSuccess #Government #Unity Image created by Allexxanda from Freepik (www.freepik.com)

We are thrilled to introduce the 13th edition of the International Forum for Enterprising and Dynamic Women(FIED), taking place in Conakry, Guinea, from October 26-30, 2024. This year’s theme, “The Role of Women in the Transformation of the African Economy: Need to Implement Infrastructure,” is a call to action for empowering women and strengthening Africa’s economic fabric. Here’s what to look forward to: 1. Panels and workshops: High-level speakers will discuss sub-themes on women’s roles in economic transformation, focusing on infrastructure, technology, and entrepreneurship. These sessions will generate actionable recommendations to drive economic policies. 2. Sales exhibitions: Over 200 exhibitors will showcase products and innovations, offering a platform for women entrepreneurs to gain visibility, attract new clients, and explore partnership opportunities. 3. Networking Opportunities: With over 3,000 attendees expected, the event will foster connections between women leaders, entrepreneurs, NGOs, government officials, and international organizations to facilitate collaborations. 4. The Night of Merit Gala: This prestigious gala will honor outstanding African companies and individuals for their resilience, innovation, and contributions to economic development. The "Prix du Mérite, du Travail et du Courage" award will celebrate those who have made a significant impact in their sectors. 5. Access to Funding and Partnership Opportunities: The forum will encourage partnerships between local entrepreneurs and international investors, providing resources for business expansion and growth, especially for small and medium enterprises. 6. Masterclass Sessions: A series of masterclasses will offer specialized training for entrepreneurs on topics like business strategy, financial management, and digital marketing to equip them with skills for sustainable growth. 7. Youth and rural women empowerment: Special sessions will focus on rural and young women entrepreneurs, encouraging their participation in business and creating a supportive environment for their growth. 8. A platform for policy advocacy: Recommendations from the event will be compiled into a report to be shared with governments and international organizations, shaping future policies to support women-led businesses and economic reforms in Africa. FIED 2024 is more than just a conference—it’s a movement empowering African women and catalyzing meaningful change across the continent. We can’t wait to see the impact of this edition in Guinea and beyond! Winnie Gor Communications Africa #FIED2024 #WomenInLeadership #EconomicTransformation #AfricanWomenEmpowerment #GuineaEvent

𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 Eda has launched the implementation of the project “Enhancing Women’s Participation and Gender-Sensitive Policies in Public Procurement at the Local Level in Bosnia and Herzegovina”. The project will last six months and is funded by the Government of Canada through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (#CFLI) for the period 2024-2025. The goal of the project is to promote the advancement of women’s entrepreneurship in Bosnia and Herzegovina by increasing the participation of women entrepreneurs in public procurement processes. In collaboration with women’s business associations, Eda will organize training and mentorship to empower women entrepreneurs and enable them to have equal access to business opportunities in the public sector. Additionally, gender-sensitive public procurement guidelines will be developed, and an advocacy campaign will be conducted to integrate these guidelines into the policies of local communities. The project innovatively contributes to enhancing competition in public procurement by increasing the participation of women entrepreneurs in this process. Through the implementation of gender-sensitive policies and greater inclusion of women in procurement, the project has the potential to reduce corruption in public procurement. #CFLI #CanadaFundBiH #PublicProcurement #WomenEntrepreneurship

For the She's Next Empowered by Visa in partnership with Emerging Europe initiative, we surveyed 2,000 female entrepreneurs and held in-depth interviews with over 75 female business leaders across 11 different markets. KEY FINDING #4 — OPTIMISM AND CONFIDENCE PREVAIL The vast majority of female entrepreneurs have a positive outlook for the near future or at least maintain current operations. They actively seek to enhance their skills and are interested in exploring new opportunities and new international markets. Just how optimistic are they in the short term? 🟢 65% expect their business to grow 🟡 27% expect to remain where they are 🔴 6.7% expect operations and sales to shrink Here are the countries with the most optimistic female entrepreneurs in terms of business growth expectations: #Uzbekistan: 85% #Azerbaijan: 78.9% #Tajikistan: 70% And the countries with the less optimistic ones: #Belarus: 54.4% #Ukraine: 55% #Georgia: 56% 👉🏼 Get your copy of the Female Entrepreneurship in Eastern and Southeastern Europe, Central Asia and the Caucasus report here https://hubs.la/Q02tC3-s0 #ShesNext #Visa #EmergingEurope #femaleentrepreneurship #womeninbusiness Cristina Doros Olena Gavinska

Happy Women's Entrepreneurship Day to all of the remarkable women out there who are doing the courageous work of starting, growing and scaling their businesses!! Canada is home to more than one million self-employed women and over the last 20 years, the proportion of women entrepreneurs in Canada has risen to one of the highest in the world. Majority women owned businesses contribute approximately $150 billion to the Canadian Economy and employ more than 1.5 million Canadians. In addition to these impressive statistics, women entrepreneurs focus more on innovation and environmental sustainability than men owned businesses. In my own personal experience, I find that women owned businesses most often have a social purpose behind the “why”, which creates real advancement for ALL Canadians. “This is not just how we create a more inclusive society—it’s also how we create good jobs and build a strong economy that works for everyone.” – The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business