Womens Day is no longer limited to a single day on the calendar in Canada Every day, female entrepreneurs are changing the definition of leadership, driving economic growth, and demonstrating that gender equality is both a sound business decision and a moral imperative The new Canadian perspective views March 8 as a potent symbol but believes that the real effort and influence occur every day of the year
Evident Rise in Women’s Leadership
The numbers reflect this change Women-owned enterprises accounted for 195% of all private sector businesses in Canada in the first quarter of 2025, up 19 percentage points from the same period in 2024 This translates to more women leading businesses that produce income, create jobs, and influence their sectors on a daily basis
The majority-owned SMEs in 2020 employed about a million people and generated over 90 billion dollars in annual revenue, so these companies are not side ventures Every data point is supported by leaders who are making the decision to establish, develop, and persevere, despite their path being more difficult than that of their male colleagues
Government’s Support For Structural Change Rather Than One-Day Celebration
This everyday leadership was not accidental It reflects years of legislation, activism, and ecosystem development aimed at bringing women from the periphery to the forefront of Canada's entrepreneurial story The Government of Canada's Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES), announced in 2018 and expanded in successive budgets, is a multibillion-dollar investment in women ' s economic empowerment WES prioritizes structural change over one-day celebrations by enhancing access to financing, supporting the ecosystem, and investing in data and research through the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH)
This strategy has affected how Canada is viewed internationally and the expansion of women-owned businesses The quality of supporting conditions, such as government regulations, funding availability, and the strength of business support organizations, as well as entrepreneurial activity, is measured by women ' s entrepreneurship indices, and Canada routinely ranks among the top nations in this regard Although females still participate at lower rates than Canadian men, Canadian women are more active in early-stage entrepreneurship than the global average The mix of global leadership and room for growth embodies the "everyday" approach: proud of accomplishments, realistic about gaps, and driven to keep going
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Imminent Change And International Women's Day
March 8, International Women's Day, falls squarely in the center of this changing environment IWD has evolved into a celebration and a benchmark for many Canadian women entrepreneurs It's an opportunity to take a break from the rigours of running a business, celebrate successes, and reestablish connections with mentors, role models, and networks who understand the particular difficulties they face
More significantly, though, it's an opportunity to pose challenging questions: Do women actually have more access to capital? Are boards and leadership teams really diverse? Are policies merely branding around gaps, or are they actually closing them?
The Mindset IS Powerful
This mindset is effective because it recognizes women entrepreneurs as both social change agents and economic drivers In Canada, many women-led firms incorporate principles such as sustainability, community investment, and inclusion into their core objectives rather than treating them as afterthoughts This is evident in their office design, supplier selection, team engagement, and community presence By supporting these leaders, we can build a more robust, equitable economy that prioritizes diverse leadership philosophies over GDP growth
The phrase "Women's Day, Every Day" means more to female entrepreneurs than just a catchphrase It can involve taking one specific action every day in March, such as finding a new mentor, applying to a funding program, reviewing a growth plan, or promoting the work of another woman, to build long-term momentum for their firm. Instead of treating gender equality as an annual campaign issue, politicians and ecosystem partners must make it a permanent design element in their decisions and initiatives Additionally, it means that the general public views womenled enterprises as a normal, everyday aspect of the Canadian economy and supports them.
As We Look Forward
Progress Is Real But Slow
According to the most recent State of Women's Entrepreneurship in Canada studies, progress has been inconsistent. The number of women-owned enterprises is rising, and women are entering historically underrepresented industries, including resource-related and construction However, women continue to face obstacles, including limited access to growth-oriented finance, skewed risk perceptions, and the constant stress of caregiving and unpaid labour, which make entrepreneurship even more difficult
These realities are not disregarded by the new Canadian worldview, which instead presents them as issues that must be resolved together through innovation, legislation, and cultural transformation
Looking beyond the calendars and hashtags may be the most meaningful way for Canada to commemorate International Women's Day as it approaches March 2026 Every day, the important story is being told: more women are launching and expanding businesses, stronger ecosystems are supporting them, and the nation is increasingly recognizing that the entire economy benefits when female entrepreneurs take the lead In this Canadian environment, Women's Day is not only observed on March 8; it is celebrated every day that a female entrepreneur takes the risk to lead, inspire, and accomplish
Subscribe to She & Success Business Magazine and follow us on she&success.ca to stay updated on funding opportunities, entrepreneurial insights, and inspiring stories of women making a difference across Canada
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence.
How Sarah Segal Transforms Real Estate
insights into Market intelligence
The CEO and co-founder of simplydbs, Sarah Segal, is a commercial real estate entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience at the nexus of strategy, data, and transactions Sarah and the simplydbs team are changing how the industry pays attention to the people who live, work, and shop in buildings Her experience from advising on billions of dollars in hotel and commercial real estate deals to co-creating one of Canada's top demand-data platforms for investors, developers and managers provides a rare combination of transactional expertise and forward-looking market intelligence
Sarah Segal Business Woman of the Month
Two Decades in Global Commercial Real Estate
Sarah started her career in traditional brokerage and advisory, where she gained extensive knowledge in the Caribbean, the United States, and Canada She has over 20 years of both transaction experience and intelligence analytics The start of her career focused on sourcing, executing, closing and consulting on dynamic property transactions with her more recent experience creating intelligence platforms and divisions and now cofounding simplydbs
At the start of her career, she co-founded CBRE Hotels Canada and helped build a nationwide platform for capital markets, advisory services, and hotel investment sales Later, she held top positions at Informa and RealNet (acquired by Altus Group), where she integrated transactional experience with business development, research, market intelligence, and product development.
Underwriting, financial analysis, due diligence, portfolio planning, team setup and supervision, client and deal generation, and longterm client relationship management are all examples of her extensive and practical transactional experience She leaned into that experience and gained recognition at each subsequent destination for developing data-driven products and new revenue divisions that connected execution to market information, which formed the basis for her current entrepreneurial emphasis
Founding simplydbs and Closing the Demand Data Gap
Sarah observed a recurring hole throughout her career: developers, investors and managers had strong supply-side data (rents, cap rates, sales comps), but they lacked nearly any organized, real-time demand-side knowledge of what building occupants (customers, tenants, residents, employees etc ) truly want and need out of the spaces they use Further, the industry lacked the tools to validate recommendations and assumptions and equally look to real time data and predictive analytics to round out strategy and decision matrix’s. Along with these pain points, feedback solutions were fragmented and did not provide intelligence for the entire lifecycle of an asset from development through to occupancy and beyond As such, she co-founded simplydbs, alongside her co-founder Katherine Radziszewski simplydbs is a Canadian-owned third-party feedback and analytics platform that powers occupant data and subsequent intelligence to inform commercial real estate decisions, in order to bridge this gap
simplydbs not only works alongside their clients from the due diligence phase but they also embed through developments and into the operating lifecycle of a property They equally conduct nationwide initiatives such as the Shape Your Space® Rental Housing Study (Formerly the Canadian MultiResidential Satisfaction Study) which collects tens of thousands of renter responses to drive an intelligence platform that customers use for market awareness, benchmarking and predictive trends Additionally, the team surveys all property types from office to industrial to retail to multi-residential to hotel and more
Among its main offerings are:
Shape Your Space® diligence product line built for discovery, development, capital expenditure and more.
Annual and portfolio surveys for benchmarking, strategy and performance intelligence.
Circular feedback solutions providing a pathway for real-time intelligence collection while driving community engagement
In her role as CEO, Sarah drives company strategy, product innovation and business development She uses analytics, intelligence solutions and CRE knowledge to provide practical insights that guides among other areas, asset management, leasing, real estate operations, and investor relations
An Industry Voice and Known Innovator
In the multifamily and larger CRE industries, Sarah is well known for being an innovator In recognition of her drive for innovation and industry changemaking, Connect CRE recognized her as the ApartmentBuildings.com Innovator of the Year. She also received the NAIOP Developing Leader Award and is a WLI (Women's Leadership Initiative) Champion through the Urban Land Institute among others accolades
Her expertise is widely recognized across the industry, and her insights are frequently sought after on leading forums She regularly speaks at conferences across Canada and appears on podcasts to discuss demand-driven intelligence, occupant experience, and innovation She also contributes thought leadership to publications such as RENX, writing about how improved occupant intelligence can reduce risk and enhance returns for owners and investors
At Toronto Metropolitan University's Ted Rogers School of Management, Sarah is also a member of the Real Estate Management Advisory Council, where she helps the upcoming generation of Canadian CRE executives
Giving Back and Building Community
Sarah has volunteered throughout her entire career and served on numerous boards and worked with many associations United Way, JDRF, Canadian Lodging News, UJA, Forest Hill Jewish Centre and NAIOP (Toronto and Corporate) are among the groups she has backed
These positions demonstrate a conviction that people and communities, not simply structures and spreadsheets, are at the heart of real estate She urges owners to "create for the community you ' re trying to achieve," not just a demographic profile, and highlights curiosity about cities and human behaviour as a key component of a successful CRE strategy in interviews
Lessons for Women Entrepreneurs in Data
and Real Estate
There are several lessons to be learned from Sarah's experience for female CEOs and entrepreneurs:
Convert problems into platforms: As an advisor, she co-founded and turned a data gap into simplydbs, a scalable analytics company
Bridge disciplines: She created a unique profile that can view both the deal and the dataset by fusing research, capital markets, and brokerage
Lead with evidence and inquiry: simplydbs’ research demonstrates how constant listening to tenants, occupants and residents can lead to improved design, more robust communities, and better financial results.
Conclusion
Sarah Segal has dedicated her professional life to putting ideas into practice, from co-founding CBRE Hotels Canada to co-creating simplydbs She & Success Business Magazine is pleased to highlight her demand-driven approach to commercial real estate as an example of data-driven, people-centred leadership
Subscribeto She & Success Business Magazine and follow us on she&successca to stay updated on funding opportunities, entrepreneurial insights, and inspiring stories of women making a difference across Canada
Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned. Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence
A31‐Day ActionCalendar
forWomenEntrepreneurs ToLead,InspireandAchieve
March is the perfect month to turn inspiration into action With International Women's Day at its center, it provides 31 days to take tiny, calculated actions that improve your company, leadership, and relationships in the community This action calendar aligns daily activities with actual Canadian programs, events, and opportunities for Canadian women entrepreneurs who wish to utilize March as a springboard for the remainder of the year
Week 1 (March
1–7):
Set Intentions and Plug In
Day 1-2: Make your March focus clear This month, spend an hour writing down three specific goals for your company, including "tighten cash flow," "increase visibility," or "create support network," as well as one leadership goal for yourself Use these to help you prioritize your tasks and keep them in a visible location every day.
Day 3–4: Sign up for a webcast or event for IWD in Canada Register for the free online event, "Thriving at Work: Prioritizing Women’s Mental Wellness – Part 2: From Awareness to Action," hosted by the Canadian Women’s Foundation on March 4 from 12 to 1 p m ET in honour of International Women’s Day 2026 Put it on your calendar and make time to write down useful concepts to improve your business culture and leadership development
Day 5–6: Make a map of the ecosystem's supports. Go to the Women’s Enterprise Initiative information page and find out which WEI organization (WeMB/Manitoba Women’s Enterprise Centre, WeSK, Alberta Women Entrepreneurs, or WeBC) is in your province. Save the contact page for future reference and make a note of at least one service they provide, such as training, advising sessions, or loans, that could help your current business stage.
Day 7: Select a single "community anchor " This year, choose a primary support community from WeBC, your local WEI, Futurpreneur (if you are between the ages of 18 and 39), WEDO Canada, or a nationwide network such as WEOC Make a commitment this month to participate in at least one of their activities, initiatives, or services
Week 2 (March 8–14): Celebrate and Strategize
Day 8: Think and talk about International Women's Day. Participate in a Canadian event (such as a local summit or the webcast replay of the Canadian Women's Foundation) on IWD, and then spend ten minutes thinking back on one important realization you plan to implement this month. Tag the event host and a Canadian woman entrepreneur you respect in a brief LinkedIn or Instagram post that relates that knowledge to your company.
Days 9–10: Examine your choices for training and funding If you are a creator between the ages of 18 and 39, check out Futurpreneur's Women in Entrepreneurship Initiative page Take note of the mentorship opportunities, loan amounts (up to $75,000), and eligibility requirements If you are not in that age bracket, find one training or finance program you could apply for within the next three months using the WEI and WEOC websites
Day 11: Create a "want list" for visibility Name three Canadian events you would like to attend in the upcoming year, such as WEKH's "See It," the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards, or Women of Influence+ Be it a database or an IWD summit in the area, jot down what they appear to be looking for in featured entrepreneurs for each
Day 12–13: Examine your internet visibility Make sure your bio, services, and influence are up to date and well-defined by spending a day on your website and another on LinkedIn or Instagram. "Would a Canadian founder, partner, or journalist be able to understand who I am and what I do in less than 30 seconds?" When the response is negative, make minor adjustments.
Day 14: Go to or schedule a networking event in Canada Sign up for at least one event in March that is organized by the ecosystem anchor of your choice, such as a Futurpreneur networking event, a WeBC webinar, or a WEI training session Put it on your calendar, and before you go, prepare a one-sentence introduction and a question
Week 3 (March 15–21): Build Visibility and Voice
Day 15–16: Write a draft on thought leadership Write a 400–500-word post or essay about a subject you are knowledgeable about, such as your industry's lessons learned, your inclusive hiring policy, or your community service Decide whether to publish it on your own blog, LinkedIn, a partner's newsletter, or by submitting a proposal to a publication that promotes Canadian women in business.
Day 17: Recognition and rewards for research. Examine the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards and other initiatives that highlight female entrepreneurs Even if the deadline is months away, choose a category that best suits your company and keep the nomination dates and requirements handy
Day 18–19: Write a founder bio that is "mediaready." Include your function, the work your company does, the influence you have (jobs created, customers served, social or environmental results), and one or two significant milestones in a 150–200-word bio. Use this in award or speaking applications, on your website, and on social media.
Day 20–21: Make your Canadian narrative stronger. Include a paragraph in your pitch deck about site or social media posts that link your work to broader Canadian themes, such as boosting local economies, filling gaps revealed by WEKH data, or supporting areas that deserve equity This makes it easier for partners, financiers, and journalists to understand how your company fits into the broader picture
Week 4 (March 22–31): Lead, Mentor, and Advocate
Day 22–23: Help another woman by mentoring or empowering her Give a woman just starting out in business an hour of informal coaching, or promote a Canadian women-owned company on your platforms Give them a tag and briefly explain how their work motivates you.
Day 24: Take part in advocacy or policy. To learn about current gaps and suggestions, spend 30 minutes reviewing the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy progress report or a WEKH brief Think of a little advocacy action you can take, such as attending a consultation, emailing a local representative about women ' s economic concerns, or becoming a member of a business association that works on policy
Day 25–26: Make your support networks stronger. Determine one particular boundary or support you will implement after the Canadian Women's Foundation IWD event that focuses on mental wellness. Examples include scheduling nomeeting time, assigning a chore, or joining a peer support group Keep in mind that business strategy includes sustainable leadership, not the other way around
Day 27: Go over your finance strategy again. Create a basic six- to twelve-month funding plan based on what you ' ve learned about Futurpreneur, WEI, and other programs. It should include information on how much you need, what you need it for, and which Canadian programs you might pursue. Before the end of April, schedule at least one exploratory call or an application start.
Day 28–29: Record your victories in March. List ten concrete things you did this month, such as going to events, updating profiles, starting conversations, or posting content, and explain what each one unlocked or has the potential to unlock You can use this as proof of your momentum and consistency in your next applications and pitches
Day 30–31: Decide on your "daily" plan Choose three things you will continue to do every week or month for the remainder of the year based on what you learned in March For instance, you may publish one thoughtleadership post per month, submit one program or award application per quarter, and make one networking touchpoint per week. Consider these to be unchangeable routines that will keep you active long after the March spotlight has passed.
You will have accomplished far more than just "celebrating" International Women's Day by the end of this 31-day calendar In addition to strengthening your voice and exposure, you will have encouraged other women, engaged with Canadian events, accessed national ecosystems such as WEI and Futurpreneur, and taken proactive measures to secure the financing and recognition you are due One intentional action at a time, every day of the year, is what "Lead, Inspire, Achieve" looks like in real life.
Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes. She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence
2026 CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL
Give To Gain: Powering Progress Through Collective Support for Women
International Women's Day, celebrated every year on March 8, emphasizes the importance of improving gender equality and creating opportunities for women everywhere The theme for International Women's Day 2026, Give To Gain, encourages individuals, organizations, and communities to embrace giving and communal assistance as a means of making significant change.
Give To Gain embodies the belief that when people help to empower women, the benefits extend long beyond the initial deed Every contribution, whether in the form of knowledge sharing, mentorship, resource provision, education support, or advocacy for equal opportunities, helps to strengthen the foundations for women ' s growth and leadership Giving isn't a loss It is a significant investment that increases impact and creates long-term change
The campaign focuses on teamwork and reciprocity When communities actively promote women ' s growth, new opportunities emerge, and obstacles are overcome Businesses, institutions, and individuals all play a responsibility in establishing environments in which women may learn, lead, and thrive.
This International Women's Day, Give To Gain urges everyone to help create a more supportive and inclusive world By providing time, resources, support, and opportunities, we help ensure that when women succeed, communities and civilizations follow suit
TheHonourable RechieValdez
It is a pleasure to send my warmest greetings to She & Success Business Magazine and to the exceptional entrepreneurs and readers marking International Women’s Day As Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism, this day is deeply connected to my work empowering women to participate fully in Canada’s economy
Building a Stronger Canada Through Women’s Success
International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the progress women have made as leaders, innovators, and decision-makers, while reaffirming Canada’s commitment to build Canada strong, unlocking the full and equal participation of women in the economy
Through the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, half a million women have already accessed funding, built networks, gained expertise, and expanded into new markets. And through the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, women entrepreneurs are accessing micro-loans of up to $50,000 capital that can mean the difference between an idea on paper and a business ready to grow
We also know that economic participation depends on strong social support Canada’s Early Learning and Child Care system is helping make life more affordable for families, delivering high-quality, lowcost care to 900,000 children, saving families up to $16,200 per child each year, and helping parents especially mothers enter and remain in the workforce
In an increasingly divided world, advancing gender equality strengthens our economy and our country When women succeed, Canada succeeds
Today, let us celebrate women ’ s contributions across every sector and continue working together to remove barriers so women, in all their diversity, can thrive
Parveen brings over a decade of experience working in B2B and B2C With a background in product management, strategy, and marketing, she brings a unique blend of creativity and business savvy to her work, paired with a passion for small businesses Growing up in a family of small business owners, Parveen understands on a personal level the heart, hard work, and creativity that comes with running a small business She is a proud supporter of small businesses and believes in their power to drive innovation and turn dreams into reality As the Senior Manager, Strategic Initiatives at Purolator, Parveen provides strategic oversight and supports teams drive business growth, strategic partnerships, and customer experiences, including helping small businesses start up and grow through Purolator’s products and solutions
Building businesses, communities, and futures that last
Across Canada, entrepreneurial communities are demonstrating that collaboration and ambition are powerful partners, strengthened through connection and shared purpose
The most resilient businesses aren’t built in isolation, but through collective effort, generosity, and a willingness to lift others When we give our time, our expertise, and our support to one another, we gain and multiply momentum
I’ve seen the power of this firsthand At Purolator, mentorship isn’t a slogan; it’s a practice. Through formal mentorships, women ’ s networks, and resource groups, I’ve been supported by leaders who made space for honest conversations, challenged me to think more broadly, and opened doors I didn’t yet know to knock on That support shaped my confidence and just as importantly, it shaped my responsibility to pay it forward Whether it’s sponsoring talent, sharing lessons learned, or creating room for new voices, giving back has become inseparable from moving forward
This culture of reciprocity matters. When we invest in inclusive networks, communities are built intentionally, ideas get stronger, innovation accelerates, and opportunity travels further
This International Women’s Day, under the theme Give to Gain, let’s keep building businesses that create opportunity, champion equity, and leave the path wider and stronger for those who follow When we give with intention, we all move forward, together
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Parveen
HeatherNobes
Vice President of Marketing at Visa Canada
Heather Nobes is Vice President of Marketing at Visa Canada, where she leads brand, sponsorship, and growth initiatives focused on enabling inclusive economic progress A passionate advocate for women, entrepreneurs and small business, Heather believes that collaboration and access are critical drivers of long-term growth She is committed to ensuring innovation and opportunity reach businesses of all sizes, helping communities and the broader economy thrive together
Give to Gain: Why Supporting Women and Small Business Uplifts Us All
As we mark International Women’s Day, the theme Give to Gain resonates deeply with me because the most meaningful growth happens when we choose to uplift others alongside us
Women entrepreneurs fuel innovation, create jobs, and strengthen communities - yet access to networks, capital, and opportunity is still far from equitable When we intentionally give our time, our advocacy, and access to our platforms we don’t lose momentum; we multiply it.
It’s essential to ensure small businesses are part of the future we ’ re shaping because when womenowned small businesses are supported, entire communities strengthen and flourish
Progress is not a zero-sum game Collaboration creates scale Mentorship creates confidence Investment creates resilience And when women succeed, they reinvest in their people, their families, and their communities
This International Women’s Day let’s reaffirm our commitment to uplifting women entrepreneurs because when they gain access, we accelerate progress
JennJuby
Interim CEO, Startup Canada
Jenn Juby is an entrepreneur and executive with decades of leadership experience across the private sector, global organizations, and the startup ecosystem Before joining Startup Canada, she was CEO of the Innovators & Entrepreneurs Foundation, a national charity supporting founders from underrepresented communities Jenn built, scaled, and exited her own retail business during the pandemic, growing it to over $10 million in revenue in sixteen months She brings a unique blend of hands-on entrepreneurial experience and executive leadership to champion inclusive growth for Canada’s founders.
IWD 2026: Give to Gain
Fueling Growth Through Women Founders
On International Women’s Day, the theme Give to Gain underscores for me that investing in women entrepreneurs is an investment in Canada’s collective prosperity
Across the country, women founders are building companies, creating jobs, and strengthening communities, yet their full economic potential remains untapped Women-identifying founders currently lead only 19 percent of Canadian businesses, highlighting the urgent need for systems designed to support their growth and achieve true equity
As a founder myself, I know how challenging it is to build a business while navigating systems that were not designed with women in mind. At Startup Canada, supporting our nation’s women-identifying founders is central to our mission Through our Startup Women flagship program and Startup Women podcast, we provide education, mentorship, inspiration, and access to critical resources to ease the way for women founders.
Give to women and the nation gains When womenidentifying founders have access to capital, networks, and supports they need, Canada gains innovation and inclusive growth This drives our economy, creates jobs, and builds a stronger, more sustainable future for all Supporting women founders fuels innovation and builds a more prosperous Canada for everyone
PujaSubrun
VP and GM, CanadaLATAM, Intuit
Puja Subrun is the Regional Vice President for Canada/LATAM at Intuit leading a team that is passionate about powering the prosperity of Canadians Puja has 20+ years as an innovative and transformation leader with a proven track record of leading high-performing teams to deliver critical priorities for our customers, employees and business
When Women Gain, Communities Grow
Happy International Women’s Day! This year ’ s theme, “Give to Gain,” is incredibly personal to me. As a leader overseeing our Intuit QuickBooks and Mailchimp teams across Canada and Latin America, I see every day how support and reciprocity creates a multiplier effect of success, personally and professionally
At Intuit, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to prosper, and we never stop working to find new, innovative ways to make that possible For women with unique financial barriers, innovation can often be the bridge to untapped potential and prosperity. This comes in many forms, including one of the most valuable resources of all: time Time to think, time to mentor, time to collaborate, time to rest, and time to reinvest in their community We wake up every day at Intuit to build a platform that solves our customers greatest needs Our commitment to delivering continuous innovation and a seamless and accessible AI-driven platform with done-for-you experiences are just some of the ways we are giving the essential resource of time back to women entrepreneurs
When we empower women, we aren’t just helping one business; we are powering prosperity for individuals, families and entire communities Generosity isn’t just a nice gesture; it’s a strategy for collective strength By lifting others as you climb, you ensure that when one of us gains, we all move forward. Lets keep building a future where every woman has the tools to lead and the community to back her up Your success is a win for all of us
GarimaDhawan Head of Channel Partner Operations, ADP Canada Small Business Services
Garima Dhawan leads the operations for all channel partners, including accountants and banks She is responsible in building the infrastructure to drive scalable growth and seamless client experience for ADP and its partners In this capacity, she is focused on product and process improvement, in addition to people growth
Garima joined ADP in 2022 as Director for the Corporate Strategy team There, she was responsible for annual strategic planning for ADP Canada, including go-to market strategy Prior to joining ADP, she has nearly a decade of strategy and finance experience, five of them in Management Consulting at Deloitte
From Small Business Owners to Accountants, ADP Canada is Here to Support You!
Ever since my childhood, Ive benefitted immensely from my family’s support and encouragement to follow my passion and ambition
Did I know what ambition I had? No!
But, the unwavering support from my family let me define that ambition over the course of time and finally brought me to Canada to chase those dreams
Building a life in a new country with no family is never easy It becomes easier with an ecosystem of friends and peer groups that give you the strength and confidence to grow with new opportunities
This newfound support system is what motivated me to try a new industry like payroll and HR with ADP, where I’ve grown in roles from corporate and sales strategy to partner operations and have had the opportunity to develop as leader driving our business forward
These opportunities through ADP with our small business and accountant community have been instrumental in my development as a strategic leader who can connect the needs of our accountant partners to ADP solutions designed for those needs
My advice to our Canadian women small business owners and accountant partners: Find your support system! You don’t have to do it alone
I look forward to seeing the growth and development of our women-led small business community and always know ADP Canada is here for your support!
Mona-Lisa
Senior DirectorCommunity Engagement at Futurpreneur
Mona-Lisa is Futurpreneur's Senior Director, Community Engagement She originally joined Futurpreneur in 2021 as founding Director of the Black Entrepreneur Startup Program, leading the team to support 135 Black-led businesses in BESP's inaugural year A lawyer by training with an MBA, Mona-Lisa brings cross-sector experience in law, entrepreneurship and economic development allowing her to connect the dots that drive entrepreneurial success
Supporting Women Entrepreneurs, Strengthening Canada
As we mark International Women’s Day 2026, the theme Give to Gain reflects what we see every day at Futurpreneur: when we actively support women entrepreneurs, Canada gains
Over the past 30 years, Futurpreneur has helped more than 20,000 young entrepreneurs launch, buy and build made-in-Canada businesses that fuel inclusive economic prosperity, with over 40% of them led by women more than double the national average
We provide entrepreneurs age 18–39 with mentorship and up to $75,000 in loan financing (with BDC as a co-lending partner), along with access to a national network of experts and peers
We know capital is critical, and connection is transformative That’s why, when we built our Women in Entrepreneurship initiative, presented by TD, we placed community at its core. At our workshops and small peer groups, women founders share ideas, build confidence and create supportive networks that last well beyond the program
Give to Gain reminds us that this kind of collaboration drives progress. When women founders come together, they grow their businesses while helping build a stronger, more inclusive and more resilient Canadian economy for all
Reetu Gupta is a trailblazing entrepreneur, investor, and visionary leader who proudly joins the ownership group of the Toronto Tempo As the CEO of The Gupta Group, she has shattered barriers in the traditionally male-dominated worlds of real estate, hospitality, and investment, all while championing the power of feminine energy in leadership A passionate advocate for women’s empowerment and education, Reetu’s philanthropy through the Gupta Family Foundation and her work on the board of the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation reflect her lifelong mission to create meaningful impact Known as The Ambassadress, she continues to redefine success through compassion, purpose, and legacy
Confidence, Courage, and Collective Progress
Give to Gain is not a slogan to me it is a lived truth Every meaningful step forward in my life and leadership has come because someone chose to give: belief, time, mentorship, advocacy, or simply presence. I stand where I am today because women and men stood with me, walked before me, and championed me when it mattered most I would not be here without them
Progress is not about women versus men It is about humanity moving forward together with confidence, courage, and conviction When we support one another from a place of integrity and love, everyone rises
Diversity is not something you force it is something you create. When you hire based on ability you create diversity intrinsically Talent, when seen clearly and supported intentionally, naturally expands opportunity for all
We are living in a time of equality and opportunity This moment is overflowing with possibility and access to that possibility must be shared When people are empowered to show up fully, without limitation or bias, the future accelerates for everyone
Today is not just about saluting women, it is a reminder of what needs to be lived every day Now is the time and every day is the time to empower one another, to lead with confidence, courage and conviction, and to rise together
AndreaSesum FounderandManaging PartnerofSmartOwl™
Andrea Sesum is the Founder and Managing Partner of Smart Owl™, a Canadian education consulting and curriculum development agency supporting colleges, institutions, and workforce training initiatives across the country She is a recognized leader in program innovation, regulatory alignment, and women-led entrepreneurship, with a passion for building pathways that create real opportunity and long-term impact
Leading with Confidence: Women Founders Driving Change
As a woman founder in education, consulting, and regulated sectors, I know firsthand that building a business isn’t just about growth it’s about responsibility Women founders in these spaces don’t just build businesses; we build credibility, trust, and systems that shape lives
These industries demand precision, compliance, and resilience, yet women are still too often encouraged to wait, soften, or shrink their ambitions Accelerating action means rejecting that narrative It means stepping forward as experts, decision-makers, and industry leaders without apology
For me, accelerating action also means supporting one another through mentorship, collaboration, and shared knowledge I’ve seen how powerful it is when women lift each other as they navigate complex systems and high expectations
On this International Womens Day, my hope is that women founders trust their expertise and lead with confidence The work you ’ re doing matters Your voice belongs in the room And the impact you create today opens doors for others tomorrow"
TehminaA.Chaudhry Founder&President ofCanadaStartup Association
Tehmina A Chaudhry is a serial entrepreneur, ecosystem builder, and angel investor dedicated to supporting underrepresented founders and globally ambitious Canadian startups She is the Founder and President of the Canada Startup Association (CSA) and a Board Member of GAIN – Global Angel Investor Network, where she works closely with founders and investors to unlock inclusive access to capital, mentorship, and global markets
The Power of Courage and Collective Growth
As women entrepreneurs, while navigating systems that were never designed with us in mind, we ' ve learned that progress rarely happens in isolation. It happens when we share what we know, open doors for others, and build alongside each other with intention
I've seen firsthand that the most resilient businesses are built not on competition alone, but on collaboration When women give their time to mentor, their knowledge to guide, and their networks to uplift others, the return is collective strength ,stronger companies, stronger leaders, stronger communities
Giving does not mean overextending or undervaluing ourselves It means being deliberate about where we invest our energy, choosing to support ideas, founders, and initiatives that align with long-term impact When women support women with clarity and purpose, we accelerate progress for everyone
This International Women's Day, my call to action is simple: give with intention, and gain with integrity Share what you ' ve learned Build ecosystems, not silos Create space at the table and expand the table while you ' re at it
Because when women rise together, the gains are not just personal they reshape the future of Entrepreneurship itself
NailaQazi CEO&Founder ofCCLCanada
It started with a question: What happens when women stop just striving and start strategically supporting one another?
For Naila Qazi, that question became a mission A senior transformation consultant, she has supported large corporates and SMEs through complex change, digital transformation, and strategic growth Her experience spans enterprise programs and business modernization, yet her core passion lies in advancing women led businesses
Empowering Women to Lead and Scale
Accelerate Action is not about rushing It is about decisive, intentional movement toward the future you want to build
To every woman entrepreneur, this is your call to lead boldly Markets are shifting AI is redefining industries Competition is global Standing still is no longer neutral It is a risk
Accelerate Action means upgrading your skills, strengthening your financial intelligence, embracing technology, and building strategic partnerships that expand your reach It means moving from idea to execution with discipline It means collaborating with other women, forming alliances, sharing knowledge, and creating ecosystems where everyone rises
Do not wait for perfect timing Build capability now Invest in mentorship Seek rooms that challenge you Form partnerships that multiply your strengths Scale with structure, not stress.
Your business deserves strategy Your leadership deserves visibility Your ambition deserves momentum
When women accelerate with clarity and collaboration, communities transform, industries evolve, and the next generation sees what is possible
Take the step Make the call Launch the product Form the partnership. Adopt the technology. Lead the change
Accelerate your confidence Accelerate your competence Accelerate Action
Dr.GeorgetteZinaty
PresidentofWBE Canada
Dr Georgette Zinaty stands at the forefront of global business transformation, innovation, and AI-driven scaling as the Founder and CEO of Women Helping Empower Women (WHEW!) and DGZ Capital. Her visionary leadership propels organizations and individuals to new heights, emphasizing breakthrough innovation, strategic achievement, and the integration of advanced technologies to drive sustainable growth
WomenEntrepreneurs PoweringCanada’s FutureEconomy
As President of WBE Canada, I speak directly to our small and medium-sized enterprises, the builders of communities, the employers of our neighbours, and the innovators of our future
I am calling on all of us to accelerate action In Canada, women-owned businesses represent nearly one in five SMEs, yet they still receive a disproportionately small share of corporate and public procurement and less access to growth capital The gap is not a capability gap rather; it is an opportunity gap And closing it is not just an equity issue; it is a strong economic strategy If women entrepreneurs scaled at the same rate as men-owned firms, Canada would unlock billions in economic growth, stronger supply chains, and thousands of new jobs
The next economy will be shaped by AI adoption, sustainable manufacturing, and resilient local sourcing SMEs led by women are uniquely positioned to lead this transition- more collaborative, more adaptive, and deeply rooted in community impact But inspiration alone is not enough We must move from awareness to contracts, from networking to market access, and from mentorship to measurable growth
Our corporate partners play a critical role, every contract awarded to a women owned Canadian SME generates a local multiplier effect across employment, subcontractors, and regional economic growth. It is smart business that strengthens supply chains, fuels innovation, and directly contributes to national economic growth
INTERNATIONAL
My message is simple: do not wait for permission to grow. Partner boldly, bid confidently, adopt technology early, and think globally
Together, we are not just supporting women entrepreneurs Together, we are redesigning the future of Canadian business
RajGirn,Founder
TheOpenChest ConfidenceAcademy
Raj Girn is a distinguished, multiaward-winning serial entrepreneur and multimedia personality with over two decades of experience collaborating with Fortune 500 companies and high-profile celebrities in both Hollywood and Bollywood She established her multimedia and events brand, ANOKHI, in 2002 as a single mother and woman of color, notably without formal degrees in business, media, or journalism, nor pre-existing celebrity or corporate connections
The Power of Investing in Yourself
At The Open Chest Confidence Academy, we believe that true success doesn’t start with taking It starts with giving to yourself first, so that you are complete to then give fully to others who need you
You do this by:
- Giving yourself permission to grow - Giving your voice space to be heard - Giving your dreams the respect they deserve
Because when you give yourself what you ’ ve been denying, confidence begins to rise naturally
For us, “Give to Gain” is not about self-sacrifice Its about selfinvestment
It’s about choosing to pour into your mindset, your skills, your leadership, and your emotional resilience
It’s about showing up for your growth before the world demands it of you
When you give yourself clarity, courage, and support, you gain momentum, visibility, and impact Once you ' ve accomplished this, it's time to spread the learnings to others, which is what true leadership is about
At The Open Chest Confidence Academy, we teach women that when you rise, you reach back to give a hand to those coming up behind you When you grow, you create space for others to grow too.
By sharing your voice, your story, your wisdom, and your compassion, you multiply your influence ten fold
You don’t compete You contribute And contribution creates legacy that cannot be denied
We teach confidence skills to accomplish this to every woman who works with us, through creating a growth mindset, effective communications skills, authority, leadership, advocacy
We cultivate self-trust, resilience, and service We help women become the kind of leaders who lift rooms, shift conversations, and change cultures that no longer serve the world we live in
CELEBRATING
So remember this:When you give boldly to yourself and to others you don’t lose power You activate it, expand it, and become it
This is how you build success with soul, lead with purpose, and leave a mark that lasts on people's lips for generations to come
SheenaYapChan
Sheena Yap Chan is a Wall Street Journal and Publishers Weekly bestselling author, TEDx speaker, keynote speaker, strategist, and award-winning podcaster recognized for her work in elevating women’s leadership and self-confidence through the power of media and visibility She is the founder of the Confidence Through Visibility™ movement and host of The Tao of Self-Confidence podcast, ranked in the top 05% globally with over 13 million downloads and 800+ interviews featuring celebrities, CEOs, and cultural icons
Give to Gain: Visibility Is the Gift That Multiplies
For years, women have been told to work hard, build confidence, and wait their turn
But confidence without access keeps women prepared not promoted
The theme Give To Gain reminds us that progress accelerates when we move beyond encouragement and into action When we share not just advice, but rooms Not just mentorship, but sponsorship Not just applause, but opportunity
In my work with women leaders and entrepreneurs, I see this every day: the real shift happens when someone opens a door and says, “You belong here” Visibility is not vanity It is validation It is positioning It is power
When we give our time, our platforms, our networks, and our influence, we don’t lose anything We expand the table And when more women are seen, heard, and respected, businesses grow stronger, communities become more innovative, and leadership becomes more equitable
This International Women’s Day, let’s accelerate action by creating access
Give visibility
Give opportunity
Give support
Because when women are visible, everyone gains
Sheena Yap Chan Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author
JennaPoste VicePresident, Product,Wagepoint
Jenna Poste is a product executive with nearly 20 years of experience leading B2B SaaS teams across fintech, social media intelligence, online threat detection, and digital wellbeing With a background in Industrial Engineering from Dalhousie University and an MBA from Wilfrid Laurier University, she blends analytical thinking with strategic product leadership As Vice President of Product at Wagepoint, Jenna drives product innovation and platform strategy to better serve small businesses across Canada
Supporting Women to Strengthen Communities
“International Women’s Day is an important yearly reminder not only to celebrate the impressive and important achievements of women around the world, but also an opportunity to acknowledge just how far we ’ ve come in rebalancing the gender scale and look for new ways to continue to accelerate progress toward global gender equality As an engineer and a Canadian tech leader, I’ve been lucky to learn from great people and strong leadership over the course of my career, which has made the tech space feel welcoming and exciting That said, there is always progress that can be made to better support women, especially in traditionally male-dominated industries like tech
This year ’ s International Women’s Day theme, Give To Gain, explores the power of investing in women by sharing knowledge, opportunities, and time to empower women, both in the workplace and at home For me, leadership comes down to three important things: empathy, clarity, and empowerment When people feel supported and listened to, they show up better at work When we lift each other up, it creates a ripple effect that can advance an entire community This International Women’s Day, I encourage leaders to think carefully about how they’re giving in their workplaces and communities, and how they can better show up for women ” Jenna Poste, Vice President, Product, Wagepoint
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
KC Goundiam is the founder of B2BeeMatch, a global business networking platform, and Seventh Bridge, a nonprofit advancing access to opportunities in tech, trades, and manufacturing for underrepresented communities. Before launching her ventures, she led digital and social media for Deloitte Canada and its global team and directed social media for Ford Born and raised in Senegal, KC brings a global perspective to her leadership
Creating Opportunities, Not Waiting for Them
I want to encourage Canadian women entrepreneurs not to wait for opportunities, but to create them instead
As a Black, francophone, immigrant woman in the tech industry, I learned quickly that I couldnt wait for doors to open and let me in So I built my own doors and let myself, and other women, in
I launched B2BeeMatch, a global business networking platform, in 2020, and Seventh Bridge, a nonprofit dedicated to connecting underrepresented people and businesses to meaningful opportunities in tech, trades, and manufacturing, in 2024
I decided to build the organizations and ecosystems I wanted to access, the kind that prioritize collaboration and relationship building over isolation and competition
What I believe in most is the power of connection, and when you create opportunities for yourself and others to connect, you ' re not just building a more equitable business landscape, you ' re building a more equitable world
I want to encourage all Canadian women entrepreneurs to start building that world, today
KCGoundiam
Jennifer Ménard-Shand Founder&CEO ofStaffShop
Jennifer Ménard-Shand is a humble First Nations Ojibwe and French-Canadian wife, mother, entrepreneur, and speaker. She is the Founder & CEO of Staff Shop, an award-winning certified diverse people strategy firm serving clients across North America, and the creator of FireFlames, a premium hot sauce brand rooted in creativity and reconciliation through entrepreneurship
Her journey from launching a division within one of Toronto’s top recruitment agencies to acquiring it and transforming it into Staff Shop reflects her resilience and vision for legacy-building A survivor of abuse, abandonment, and trauma, Jennifer shares her story to inspire leaders, organizations, and communities to break cycles, rise above adversity, and realize their full potential
Building Stronger Futures Through Mentorship
"Progress accelerates when we move from competition to contribution The theme “Give to Gain” reminds us that real growth happens when we share our knowledge, open doors for others, and build ecosystems where success is multiplied, not isolated
As a wife, mother, and entrepreneur, I know firsthand that no one succeeds alone I would not be where I am today without the many WHOs who stood beside me: mentors, partners, team members, family, friends, and community leaders who invested their time, guidance, and belief when it mattered most Their support reminds me that leadership is not about how far we go individually, but how many people we bring forward with us
Throughout my journey, I have seen that the most resilient businesses are built through mentorship, partnerships, and communities that believe in lifting as they climb. When we invest our time in mentoring emerging leaders, intentionally support womenowned and diverse businesses, and create workplaces where every voice is valued, we strengthen not only individual companies but the broader economy
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Let this International Women’s Day remind us that generosity is a multiplier When women give forward, industries transform, communities thrive, and the path to leadership becomes wider for generations to come " Jennifer Ménard-Shand, Founder & CEO of Staff Shop & FireFlames.
JodySteinhauer FounderofBargains Group(BG)
As founder of Bargains Group (BG), Jody has mobilized her award-winning discount wholesale and promotional products company to revolutionize the social impact landscape
Jody uses her network of resources and leveraged buying power to aid every company and non-profit (NFP) agency/charity that she touches to maximize their buying dollar Since 1988, Jody has grown BG from her Toronto apartment living room to a multi-million dollar-a-year business
Women Supporting Women: A Path to Success
I started my entrepreneurship journey in my 20’s and didn’t have any mentors early on as most of my network was in university But I can honestly say that I could not be where I am today without my 29-year membership in EO (Entrepreneurs Organization), my EO Forum Group (aka my Board of Directors’) and the support of one woman in particular, Victoria Sopik, CEO of Kids & Company and Canadas 2025 EY Entrepreneur of The Year A few years ahead of me now with 8 children and 17 grandchildren, Victoria’s encouragement, sounding board for ideas to bounce off and sage advice are gifts I value every day, in all aspects of my life
There is also something uniquely powerful about a woman helping another woman build confidence by saying: “I see you. I’ve been there. You can do this.”
Women mentoring women is a key to success, especially from a social impact perspective, a must have to tackling society’s greatest tasks We need to embrace our differences versus men more and remind ourselves that it’s okay to suffer setbacks Our challenges – at work, at home and in society overall – are different and sometimes, only another woman ’ s pearls of wisdom will help set things right
Women, if you ’ re not mentoring another woman, find one If you don’t have a female mentor, get one It’ll make the world of difference
Nida Ateeq is the Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Anagar Media, a women-founded marketing, AI, and automation agency that helps companies scale through data-driven growth systems. She is also the Founder and CRO of Grow Your Rev and the creator and host of the Hustle & Heart podcast, where women share candid conversations about personal stories, careers, confidence, and entrepreneurship
The Strength of Women Supporting Women
When I think about the theme Give To Gain, I think about the many women who helped me along my journey. The mentors who shared advice when I was uncertain, the peers who opened doors, and the communities that reminded me I didn’t have to build alone
As an immigrant entrepreneur, rebuilding a career in a new country taught me that progress often begins with generosity Someone offering guidance Someone sharing a connection Someone simply saying, “You belong here ”
Those moments matter more than we realize
Today, I try to carry that forward by supporting women founders, sharing what I’ve learned, and creating opportunities for others to grow Because every time we invest in another woman ’ s success, we expand what is possible for all of us
International Women’s Day is a celebration, but it is also a call to action. The most powerful thing we can do is lift as we climb.
Give your time Give your knowledge Give encouragement
Because when women support women, the impact multiplies far beyond one business or one career It changes the future
WealthStrategist
Cardeen Williams, CPA, is a Wealth Strategist who works with entrepreneurs and high-income professionals to protect their income, structure wealth efficiently, and build long-term financial resilience Combining her expertise in accounting, corporate finance, and investment and insurance strategy, she helps business owners create financial structures that protect their success today while building security and legacy for the future
Give To Gain: Why Women Rise Higher When We Rise Together
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with many ambitious women - founders, entrepreneurs, and leaders who are building businesses while balancing countless responsibilities
One thing I’ve learned from these women is that success rarely happens alone
Behind every successful entrepreneur is often a network of people who shared advice, opened doors, offered encouragement, or simply believed in their vision early on Those moments of support matter more than we sometimes realize
The theme for International Women’s Day this year, “Give To Gain,” captures that spirit perfectly When women share knowledge, mentor each other, and create opportunities for collaboration, we multiply what’s possible - not just for ourselves, but for the next generation of leaders.
In my work supporting entrepreneurs and business owners, I’m constantly reminded that building a business is only part of the journey True empowerment also means protecting what you ’ ve built, creating financial resilience, and ensuring that your work can support the life and legacy you envision
When women invest in each other’s successthrough mentorship, partnership, and communitywe do more than grow businesses
Nicole Cowl, 19, is redefining what it means to develop a modern jewelry brand from a small mountain community in Canada She founded Vienna Domani, an independent jewelry firm based in Kimberley, British Columbia, with a focus on minimal design and a meaningful aim Nicole founded Vienna Domani at age 17 and was named the Kimberley & District Chamber of Commerce's Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 at the age of 19, demonstrating her ambition, inventiveness, and impact on the region
Her story is more than just creating a business; it's also about learning operations, branding, customer experience, and growth strategy in real time while still in her teens
From Childhood Hobby to Business
Nicole's passion for jewels started long before Vienna Domani existed She began experimenting with wire and craft beads when she was eight years old, transforming simple materials into something beautiful. At 16, she learnt silversmithing and began dealing with real metals and torches, which increased her appreciation for craftsmanship and creativity The tipping point occurred in 2024, during her senior year of high school
She awoke one night after a vivid dream about selling her jewelry, a dream that changed the course of her life Instead of treating her creativity as a hobby, she chose to pursue jewelry as a career and founded Vienna Domani
The Meaning Behind “Vienna Domani”
The name Vienna Domani has its own story "Domani" means "tomorrow" in Italian, and the brand's name emphasizes Nicole's belief in patience, growth, and the strength of long-term planning It also acknowledges her inspiration from travel and music, such as the notion of slowing down and appreciating youth conveyed in the song "Vienna "
FounderofViennaDomani
This blend of Vienna and Domani represents time, opportunity, and a subtle reminder that you don't have to rush your trip. Nicole believes the name expresses exactly how she wants her clients to feel: that there is always room to grow, expand, and become
Minimal, Intentional, and Made for Real Life
Vienna Domani is characterized as "simple in design, designed to be worn every day with thought " Nicole creates each item by hand and works with a manufacturer to ensure it is waterproof, tarnish-resistant, and suitable for everyday wear Her style is dainty and minimalist, with delicate cubic zirconia gems arranged with painterly perfection so that each stone feels deliberate.
Each piece is intended to be subtle yet expressive, strong enough to stand alone but harmonious when layered For Nicole, jewelry is more than just an accessory; it's a daily ritual that allows her to carry meaning, memory, and self-expression in a subtle but profound way
Building a
Brand
from the Ground Up
Nicole, like many young business owners, started her company without big funding or corporate support. By managing operations, creating collections, developing a brand identity, and gradually shaping the customer experience, she has learnt to run a product-based firm Her efforts have already received praise from local groups such as the Kimberley Chamber of Commerce and media outlets, including the CBC and the Kimberley Bulletin
Nicole continues to sell her jewelry online, in addition to her physical store She currently operates a pop-up store at 255A Wallinger Ave., Platzl Shopping Centre, in the centre of Kimberley, where clients can engage with her stories, try on items, and view the collection in person
Locals and tourists seeking meaningful, everyday jewelry have quickly turned to the pop-up, which is open daily for a limited time It is more than just a storefront; it is an active, developing case study in community development, retail testing, and young entrepreneurship
The Intention Behind Every Piece
Vienna Domani is centred around intentionality In addition to creating minimalist, cozy, and effortless pieces, Nicole also incorporates quality, materials and client connection into her designs. Every design is intended to be worn, appreciated, and adored every day, not only on special occasions
In addition to launching a product line, she wants to build a community a clientele that feels valued, noticed, and trusted Every interaction from packaging to face-to-face interactions at the pop-up is designed to show consideration, openness, and respect for the customers who select her jewelry
Inspiring the Next Generation of Founders
Nicole's story resonates with young business owners who must strike a balance between lofty goals and practical limitations She demonstrates that you can begin where you are, pick up knowledge along the way, and still create something significant and well-known
Subscribe to She & Success Business Magazine and follow us on she&success.ca to stay updated on funding opportunities, entrepreneurial insights, and inspiring stories of women making a difference across Canada.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes. She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence
MakingWomen-Led BusinessesVisible AcrossCanada
Visibility is not an afterthought for Canadian female businesses It is leverage When founders are recognized as experts, innovators, and decisionmakers, access increases Capital talks are open Media requests are increasing Partnerships follow Visibility also reshapes public perception, changing long-held ideas about who runs businesses and making it easier for aspiring entrepreneurs to envision themselves in those roles Representation affects opportunities When women are routinely visible in business media, on conference stages, and in policy discussions, their credibility grows
National Platforms Elevating Women Leaders
National organizations are bolstering the visibility pipeline The Canadian Women's Foundation will present its 2026 International Women's Day event as a free livestreamed conversation, highlighting leaders and structural concerns affecting women across Canada Events like these link entrepreneurship to broader discussions about economic equality and social change, allowing founders to situate their work within a national conversation
Women of Influence+ plays a complementary role The group promotes diversity in leadership through events, thought leadership content, and projects like the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards By featuring women in high-profile forums, these platforms broaden their reach beyond immediate networks and contribute to a public record of women ' s entrepreneurial success.
The Power of Summits
and Local Showcases
International Women's Day summits in Canadian cities provide concentrated visibility opportunities Womenowned businesses are highlighted in panels, exhibitor showcases, vendor markets, and networking sessions at conferences in Toronto, Cambridge, and other regions Participation in these locations as a speaker, exhibitor, or panelist frequently leads to future opportunities A local showcase can attract media attention, strategic alliances, and repeat invitations Visibility in real rooms is still important in the digital age Some of the events are:
GiveToGain IWD Celebration in Cambridge and Toronto IWD Summit promote women entrepreneurs and feature them to showcase, highlight and pitch their businesses through vendor markets, panel discussions, exhibitor spaces and community leadership oriented workshops These events turn a local business into a recognized name
Awards as Strategic Positioning
Awards programs are more than just recognition celebrations They serve as credibility boosters Initiatives such as the RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards and regional Top 100 lists provide structured opportunities for creators to demonstrate their impact The application process in itself improves narrative Entrepreneurs clarify metrics, set growth milestones, and refine narratives to improve investor pitches Even if you don't win, nominations can help you extend your network and open up mentorship opportunities
Digital Storytelling and Discoverability
Speaking and Thought Leadership
Speaking engagements increase authority. Conferences and industry meetings frequently seek women who can speak on innovation, leadership, equity, and sector trends Creating a signature talk that draws on personal experience and business expertise increases the likelihood of repeat invitations Thought leadership extends beyond the stages. Articles, opinion pieces, podcasts, and interviews establish the founders as experts in their fields Organizations routinely post profiles of entrepreneurs to reinforce expertise and expand reach
Online visibility increases over time Entrepreneurs can control their narrative through social media, newsletters, blogs, and podcasts Consistent commentary on industry developments, business lessons, and mission-driven practices fosters trust among audiences
The Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub administers the See It Be It database, which has over 1,800 profiles of female entrepreneurs from various sectors and countries This material is specifically designed to combat stereotypes and boost discoverability Inclusion on such sites broadens media exposure and partnership prospects
Visibility Embedded in Policy
Canada's Women Entrepreneurship Strategy acknowledges that representation influences economic participation Federal initiatives have supported networking platforms, matchmaking programs, and digital resource libraries to raise the visibility of women-led businesses
Since 2018, hundreds of women have received mentorship and ecosystem support through WES-funded projects Visibility is incorporated as a structural goal, recognizing that opportunity flows through networks as well as capital
Turning March into Momen
International Women's Day provides a concentrated opportunity for action, attention must extend beyond a singl month. Founders can set measurable Apply for a single award Submit a sin expert profile Submit one speaking p Publish a substantial insight piece At least one industry event to expand yo network Small, persistent activities contribute to cumulative presence. O time, repetition converts recognition i authority
When women entrepreneurs are visible, their influence grows Media representation influences which industries gain attention Leadership affects procurement decisions, investment trends, and policy priorities Visibility alters expectations Organizations such as the Canadian Women's Foundation, Women of Influence+, and national entrepreneurial networks celebrate more than just individuals They are creating an ecology in which women ' s leadership is normalized
Subscribeto She & Success Business Magazine and follow us on she&successca to stay updated on funding opportunities, entrepreneurial insights, and inspiring stories of women making a difference across Canada
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence
In an exclusive interview with She & Success Business Magazine, Andra Taylor, Founder and Managing Partner of Refine Finance, opens up about her journey from building a successful financial infrastructure firm to empowering scaling businesses across North America
With over 18 years of experience in finance leadership, Andra shares her insights into transforming financial strategy for service-based and inventory-driven companies
Andra Taylor is the Founder and Managing Partner of Refine Finance, a firm providing CFO leadership and financial infrastructure to scaling service-based and inventory-driven businesses across North America
Since founding Refine Finance in 2017, she has built a team supporting clients across professional services, creative industries, retail, and consumer brands With over 18 years of experience in finance leadership, Andra specializes in helping founders improve profitability, strengthen financial visibility, and scale sustainably
You co-founded Refine Finance with the goal of bridging the gap between financial strategy and creative industries. What inspired you to start the company, and how did you identify the need for CFO services tailored to PR and marketing firms?
Refine Finance was created to solve a structural gap I observed across scaling businesses. Many founders were generating strong revenue but lacked the financial leadership required to scale efficiently They had accounting support, but not strategic guidance to help them improve profitability, manage cash flow, and make informed growth decisions
We initially worked closely with PR and marketing firms, where revenue is talent-driven and project-based These businesses often grew quickly but operated with limited financial visibility, creating uncertainty around hiring, pricing, and investment decisions
Over time, we expanded to support a broader range of servicebased and inventory-driven businesses, including consulting firms, consumer brands, and retail operators While operational models differ, the financial challenges are consistent: limited forward visibility, margin inefficiencies, and reactive decision-making
Refine Finance provides CFO leadership and financial infrastructure that enables founders to operate with clarity, strengthen profitability, and scale with confidence
The financial services space remains largely male-dominated. What were some of the key barriers you faced early on in establishing Refine Finance, and how did you turn skepticism into trust and credibility?
One of the early challenges was introducing a different model of financial leadership Traditionally, CFO roles were viewed as internal executive positions within large organizations Demonstrating that fractional CFO leadership could deliver the same strategic impact required consistent execution and measurable results
Credibility in finance is built through accuracy and outcomes I focused on delivering clarity and value When founders gained real-time visibility into their financial position and improved profitability, trust developed naturally
Another important shift was helping business owners see finance as a strategic growth driver rather than a compliance function Financial leadership should enable better decision-making and strengthen long-term performance
As Refine Finance grew, credibility followed results. We became trusted partners embedded in leadership teams, helping founders build financially resilient and scalable businesses
Trust is ultimately earned through consistency, precision, and the ability to create meaningful impact
Your leadership philosophy combines empathy with strategic insight. How have emotional intelligence and collaboration helped you build a strong, diverse team and deliver impactful results for your clients?
Financial leadership requires both technical expertise and strong interpersonal awareness. Every financial decision affects people, whether it involves hiring, investment, or growth planning Emotional intelligence allows us to understand each founder’s priorities and provide guidance aligned with their vision
Building a strong team begins with hiring individuals who combine analytical rigor with accountability and ownership We emphasize precision, proactive thinking, and clear communication Our team is trained to translate financial data into actionable insight
Collaboration is central to our model. We integrate directly with client leadership teams, providing financial visibility that supports strategic and operational decisions
This approach creates alignment, confidence, and stronger outcomes When founders have clarity into their financial position, they make better decisions and scale more effectively
You’ve navigated Refine Finance through challenges like market shifts and the pandemic while continuing to grow. How did adaptability and innovation help you sustain momentum and strengthen client relationships during uncertain times?
Periods of uncertainty highlight the importance of financial clarity. During the pandemic, many businesses faced immediate questions around liquidity, cost management, and operational stability Our priority was to provide real-time visibility and actionable guidance We implemented rolling cash flow forecasting and scenario planning to help clients understand their financial position and evaluate potential outcomes This allowed them to make proactive decisions and preserve stability
We also strengthened financial reporting and infrastructure to deliver faster, more accurate insight. This enabled founders to respond quickly and confidently to changing conditions.
During uncertain periods, financial leadership becomes essential Providing clarity and forward visibility allowed our clients to navigate challenges effectively and position themselves for continued growth
Adaptability and proactive financial planning were critical in helping businesses remain resilient and maintain momentum
Resilience is essential Challenges are inevitable, but those who continue learning and executing with discipline build lasting success
You’ve built a culture that champions diversity, inclusion, and empowerment. What advice would you give to women aspiring to build leadership careers in finance or entrepreneurship, and how can they redefine success on their own terms?
The foundation of leadership in finance or entrepreneurship is competence Developing strong financial and strategic skills creates independence and expands opportunity Expertise provides confidence and the ability to make informed decisions
It is also important to take ownership of your career Leadership is built through consistent execution, accountability, and the willingness to take responsibility
Success should be defined personally. For some, it may mean building a company For others, it may mean achieving autonomy or creating impact There is no single path
The narrative of women in business in Canada is increasingly supported by quantitative evidence Although ownership and leadership have steadily increased, notable disparities remain These patterns collectively imply that women ' s advancement in business is not symbolic It has national ramifications and is an economic priority
Growth in Women-Owned Businesses
Data on ownership demonstrates significant advancements The percentage of private-sector companies that were majority-woman-owned increased from 176 percent in early 2024 to 195 percent in the first quarter of 2025 On average, women owned 19% of enterprises nationwide in 2024, consistent with a trend of growth from earlier years
The percentage of small and medium-sized businesses owned by women increased from 156% in 2017 to 168% in 2020 and 178% in 2023 There is a constant trend More women are starting businesses and keeping them going over time
Economic Contribution and Employment Impact
These businesses are not ancillary Nearly a million people were employed by predominantly femaleowned SMEs, which generated over 90 billion dollars annually Their assistance stabilizes regional economies and sustains crosssector supply chains There are repercussions when women run enterprises
Compared with the larger private sector, women hold a higher proportion of management and nonmanagement positions in majority-owned businesses
Ownership affects hiring and promotion practices, thereby providing other women in organizations with more opportunities According to WEKH's 2025 study, women entrepreneurs are "anchoring" Canada's economy through their contributions to innovation, employment, and firm expansion
Leadership Gains and Persistent Ceilings
Data on corporate leadership shows both progress and constraints In small and medium-sized enterprises in Canada, women now hold 347% of senior management positions, approximately the global average In some executive positions, representation is especially robust
Nearly 40% of Chief Human Resources Officer posts and over 42% of Chief Financial Officer positions are held by women Additionally, there is a growing presence in executive leadership, marketing, operations, and technology positions
Although it remains limited, board representation has improved Approximately 29% of board seats in TSX-list companies are currently held by women, a significant increase from roughly 11% ten years ago For meaningfu representation, however, the commonly cited 30 percen threshold is still barely out of reach Approximately 25% board and senior management roles in federally regula distribution organizations are held by women, and only small percentage of businesses have formal gender representation targets
What
the
Data Says About Policy and Targets
Evidence suggests that intention is important The avera percentage of women on boards in businesses with sta gender targets is approximately 35%, whereas the avera for companies without such targets is about 22%
Significantly greater representation is also seen in companies with written diversity policies
A clear lesson is reinforced by these patterns Measurab commitments are necessary for structural transformati Without goals and guidelines, development stalls
Barriers That Continue to Shape Outcomes
Despite advancements, women remain underrepresented in business ownership relative to their share of the workforce
Uneven access to high-growth sectors, highvalue networks, and growth-oriented finance persists Systemic barriers frequently overlap and exacerbate problems for women who are racist, Indigenous, newcomers, or disabled
Although assessments indicate persistent gaps, federal programs, such as the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, have expanded access to funding and ecosystem resources
To ensure that underrepresented groups are not left behind, data collection and targeted programming remain essential
The Economic Case for Everyday Action
There are significant economic ramifications According to studies, promoting gender equality in leadership and entrepreneurship might boost Canada's GDP by tens of billions of dollars Since women-owned SMEs already generate over 90 billion dollars in annual revenue, expanding them could significantly increase national productivity
Stronger innovation, better governance, and long-term sustainability are also associated with diverse leadership teams, according to research Therefore, increasing the representation of women is about more than mere fairness It concerns resilience and competitiveness in a shifting economy
From Measurement to Meaningful Change
Treating "Womens Day, Every Day" as an economic strategy entails using statistics like these to inform decisions in government, corporations, and support organizations not simply to celebrate progress, but also to close remaining gaps
It's evident from the numbers. Economic involvement increases when more women run more companies, serve on more boards, and lead more organizations Employment trends change Tables used for decision-making are diverse The ability for innovation grows Promoting women in business as a continuous economic strategy requires direct corporate practices, investment, and legislation. Clarity comes from data. Results are determined by real action
Momentum That Requires Continuity
Significant progress has been made, as evidenced by a rise in the percentage of SMEs owned by women from 156 percent to 178 percent over several years, the increase to 195 percent of private-sector companies in early 2025, and consistent improvements in executive and board representation
However, persistent legislative support, access to procurement, childcare facilities, capital availability, and corporate governance reforms are all necessary to sustain momentum Annual recognition is not enough to advance women in business It calls for constant, data-driven action
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Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes. She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence
GuidingTechFounders FromStartuptoScale
In an exclusive interview with She & Success Business Magazine, Michelle Younes, Director of Venture Programs at Invest Ottawa, shares a candid perspective on what it truly takes to guide founders from early traction to sustainable scale. Leading one of Canada’s most dynamic support portfolios for technology companies, Michelle works at the intersection of ambition, strategy, and execution.
Michelle Younes is the Director of Venture Programs at Invest Ottawa, where she leads one of Canada’s top support portfolios for technology companies Over the past decade, she has worked closely with founders to accelerate growth and unlock opportunitysupporting them through capital raises, talent acquisition, market expansion, and strategic partnerships
She led the creation of the IO Venture Path, a suite of programs designed to support companies at various stages of growth Under her leadership, more than 1,500 companies have been supported. Collectively, these companies have raised over $1.7 billion in capital and created more than 5,600 jobs.
You’ve spent the last decade working side-by-side with tech founders in roles spanning trade, business development, and now venture programs. What originally drew you to supporting entrepreneurs, and how did that journey lead you to build and lead the IO Venture Path at Invest Ottawa?
My connection to startups began long before my professional career took shape My dad is a tech founder, and for years our basement doubled as a startup office While my mom worked long shifts as a nurse, I was at home surrounded by engineers, product debates, and whiteboards covered in ideas By 10, I was soldering circuit boards and experimenting with code I watched concepts turn into prototypes, and prototypes turn into real products It was incredible
But I also saw how hard it was. The constant cost-cutting at home because my dad wasn’t taking a salary so he could pay his team Late nights watching my parents load boxes of products into our minivan for shipment I saw how even the most brilliant founder can face an uphill battle - and how much it matters to have the right people in your corner
While the innovation inspired me, it was the struggle that stuck with me It built a strong empathy for founders and the weight they carry Building the IO Venture Path has been deeply personal - it’s about creating the high-impact support system I wish my dad had, and ensuring founders don’t ever have to build alone.
The IO Venture Path now supports companies from prerevenue startups to ventures generating $100M in ARR. How do you think about designing programs that meet founders where they are, and what do the most successful teams tend to have in place at each stage?
Designing programs for startups is different from building one, but there are some clear parallels It starts with really understanding the problems our founders are facing and building from there
It requires resisting the urge to design what we think they need and building what weve validated they actually need Just as startups search for productmarket fit, were focused on earning our own version of “support-market fit.” Sometimes an initiative lands immediately. Sometimes it needs iteration And sometimes we scrap it entirely
At the same time, no two founder journeys are the same, and growth isn't always linear A pre-revenue startup and a company generating tens of millions in revenue also have very different needs. Early-stage founders are focused on validation, landing their first customers, and refining early versions of their product More mature companies are thinking about scaling leadership, operational rigor, market expansion, and sustainable growth
That’s why we ’ ve intentionally segmented the IO Venture Path by revenue stage It allows us to deliver relevant, timely supportand just as importantly, avoid distracting founders with programming that doesn’t match where they’re at
Earlier in your career, you were hand-picked to relocate to Silicon Valley to help Canadian tech companies connect with global players. What did you learn in that environment about accessing markets, capital, and strategic partners that you now bring back to founders in Canada?
Working in Silicon Valley was the moment I realized I could build a real career around my passion - helping startups grow. It was the first time I stepped into a co-working space, heard founders pitch investors, and watched companies raise capital with little more than a bold vision and early traction
What stood out most was the sheer volume of activity There was always something happening – demo days, founder meetups, you name it It was clear that the proximity to builders, operators, and investors accelerated momentum and opportunity
That experience shaped how I think about community - and it’s something I believe we ’ ve done particularly well in Ottawa There isn’t a week that goes by without founders connecting in some way, but what’s really special is the culture behind it Founders here actively support one another They open doors, share hard-earned lessons, and mentor the next generation of founders That generosity compounds over time, accelerating growth across the broader community
As a woman leading one of Canada’s top support portfolios for tech companies, what shifts are you seeing for women founders and operators in the ecosystem—and what kinds of support or mindset changes make the biggest difference for them?
One of the biggest shifts I’m seeing is the growing presence of women in leadership - as founders, executives, and investors This matters because it changes who is in the room and who is shaping decisions
There are still measurable gaps, particularly when it comes to access to capital and influential networks What’s encouraging is that these challenges are being acknowledged more openly, and women are navigating them proactively
At Invest Ottawa, we ’ ve built a clear strategy to strengthen the pipeline of women leaders and ensure they’re always surrounded by support As part of that, weve introduced several initiatives such as dedicated funding for women-founded companies, forums for peer connection, and an expanded advisory network We measure outcomes and report on them to ensure accountability and progress There’s always more to do, particularly for women from diverse walks of life, but were committed to putting in the work together as a community
Ultimately, when women are given access and trusted with meaningful responsibility, their impact scales - and our entire economy is stronger for it
For a founder who wants to move from “promising startup” to a scalable, investor-ready business, what key steps or disciplines would you urge them to focus on over the next 12–18 months?
If you want to move from “promising” to truly scalable and investor-ready, I’d focus on three disciplines
First, stay relentlessly close to your customers Product-market fit isn’t a one-time milestone - it’s something you can find and lose Markets shift, needs evolve, competitors move The founders who win are the ones who keep listening and refining.
Second, protect your focus As momentum builds, so do distractions - new verticals, new use cases, inbound opportunities that feel exciting but pull you off strategy Growth doesn’t come from doing more things; it comes from doing the right things consistently Clarity and discipline are also incredibly attractive to investors
Finally, take care of yourself Founders are often the limiting factor in their own company ’ s growth If you ’ re exhausted, reactive, or burned out, it shows - in your decision-making, your leadership, and your execution Sleep, exercise, and recovery aren’t indulgences; they’re risk management. Scaling a company requires stamina, and the business can only grow as sustainably as the founder leading it
Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this interview are those of the featured guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of She & Success Our mission is to spotlight women leaders, their entrepreneurial journeys, and their impact providing insights that inspire and empower women entrepreneurs and small business leaders across Canada
The 2026 International Women's Day (IWD) theme, "Give To Gain," appeals directly to Canadian women entrepreneurs and is a potent call to reconsider how we promote gender equality The message is straightforward but profound: when people, groups, and communities freely provide time, money, expertise, and visibility, we don't lose; rather, we increase everyone ' s opportunities and impact This subject provides a prism through which women in business might view their work as a daily act of giving that has the power to alter systems, as well as an economic activity.
The Power of Reciprocity and Support
Fundamentally, "Give To Gain" stresses support and reciprocity Its foundation is the idea that when we support women, we all benefit The topic encourages people and organizations to support women ' s growth through activism, education, training, mentoring, and donations In this sense, giving is an intentional multiplication of opportunity rather than a sort of self-sacrifice For Canadian women entrepreneurs, who already employ hundreds of thousands of people and generate billions in sales, this paradigm is particularly effective
By incorporating charitable giving into the core of their companies, female entrepreneurs may embrace the idea Sharing financial literacy skills with employees or other business owners in their network is one way to impart knowledge Giving time could entail providing mentorship or frequent one-on-one checkins to young team members or budding business owners Promoting women and people of other genders into leadership positions, or offering flexible work schedules that enable caregivers to flourish, are two ways to create opportunities Each of these steps improves a company ' s culture, resiliency, and long-term success, while also promoting gender equality within the organization.
A Focus on Gender Justice and Support for Nonprofits
Additionally, "Give To Gain" urges communities and businesses to assist grassroots organizations and nonprofits tackling important gender-justice issues By encouraging IWD activities to include a fundraising element, the campaign gives NGOs a platform to showcase their work and build enduring connections This assistance helps organizations like the Canadian Women's Foundation, which strives to eradicate gender-based violence and empower women via leadership initiatives, expand their influence in Canada
For female entrepreneurs, this entails incorporating charitable giving into their operations by supporting local NGOs This may be as easy as leveraging their platforms to advertise charitable work or allocating a portion of their profits to gender-equity projects Practical strategies to make a difference and build neighbourhood ties include organizing client events or starting campaigns that highlight nearby womens shelters, Indigenous women-owned enterprises, or groups that promote economic empowerment
Practical Examples from Canadian Events
The "Give To Gain" concept has already been adopted by a number of Canadian events, which are aggressively using the subject to support female businesses For example, the Trillium Foundation's "International Women’s Day 2026: Give to Gain" event in Scarborough promotes parity, respect, opportunity, and support for women, highlighting the mutual benefits of doing so This serves as a reminder that when we help one another succeed, we all get stronger
Supporting Women in Everyday Conversations and Online Spaces
The "Give To Gain" program emphasizes formal events, but daily deeds are just as significant The initiative urges people to question prejudice, confront stereotypes, and recognize the accomplishments of women in their daily interactions and online communities For Canadian women entrepreneurs, this can be as easy as showcasing women-owned businesses on social media, sharing insights from their own entrepreneurial experiences, and refusing to normalize discriminatory practices in industry forums.
Supporting gender equality can be greatly advanced by taking tangible steps, such as endorsing a female entrepreneur for a speaking engagement, putting her in touch with potential partners, or promoting her products Sharing a picture of "Give To Gain" with the hashtag #GiveToGain is one way to participate in the global dialogue, but the concept really comes to life when combined with concrete acts that change the world
Extending International Women’s Day into a Year-Round Practice
The "Give To Gain" theme serves as a reminder that International Women's Day is a chance to make a commitment to year-round activities that promote gender equality rather than a single celebration March might serve as a springboard for female businesses to make significant promises that go beyond the day These commitments could be joining networks that encourage women ' s inclusion and leadership, mentoring a female entrepreneur, or regularly contributing to a nonprofit.
Women entrepreneurs can create thriving companies and foster a supportive community by including "Give To Gain" into their long-term strategy In addition to allowing entrepreneurs to establish boundaries and support networks that enable them to flourish on both personal and professional levels, this strategy ensures that giving is sustainable and not a cause of burnout
Closing the Gender Gap in Business
Almost one million people are employed by women-owned small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in Canada, which already generate over 90 billion dollars in revenue. However, compared to their demographic share, women remain underrepresented in top leadership positions and in business ownership A range of philanthropic strategies will be needed to close these inequalities, including media coverage that emphasizes women ' s accomplishments, mentorship opportunities, regulatory changes that accommodate childcare demands, and fair access to finance for female entrepreneurs
Women entrepreneurs require the backing of others in their immediate vicinity, including bankers, investors, legislators, and media figures, for "Give To Gain" to have a significant impact We can unleash even more economic potential for women and society at large by establishing an ecosystem that supports female entrepreneurs via generosity
Empower the Future, As Now Is The Time For Action
In the end, the 2026 "Give To Gain" theme urges Canadian women entrepreneurs to view each act of kindness as part of a broader movement for equality Every act of generosity, whether it's supporting a new company, organizing a nonprofit fundraising event, or just using a platform to highlight the accomplishments and stories of women, makes the world a more encouraging and connected place
This March and beyond, the question is not just "What will you get?" but also "What will you give to gain gender equality for yourself, your business, and your community?" We may empower ourselves and others by consciously contributing, creating a future where all people, regardless of gender, have the chance to thrive.
Subscribeto She & Success Business Magazine and follow us on she&success.ca to stay updated on funding opportunities, entrepreneurial insights, and inspiring stories of women making a difference across Canada
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence
In an exclusive interview with She & Success Business Magazine, Chitralekha Potnis, Co- Founder and Visionary Leader of Peel College of Professional Studies, shares the inspiring journey from her background as an Electronics Engineer to becoming a dynamic education entrepreneur With a strong foundation in research and technical excellence, Chitralekha reflects on how her early life in Pilani and her engineering career shaped her transition into the world of education.
The Inspiring Journey of Chitralekha Potnis – A Woman Entrepreneur in Education
The journey of Chitralekha Potnis is a powerful story of resilience, vision, and purposeful leadership. From being trained as an Electronics Engineer to becoming a respected education entrepreneur in Canada, her life reflects determination, continuous learning, and a deep commitment to community development
Early Education and Technical Excellence
Chitralekha began her professional path in the field of Electronics Engineering With a strong academic foundation in science and technology, she developed analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a disciplined approach to work Her early career was marked by intellectual curiosity and academic contribution
You began your career as an Electronics Engineer, publishing over 50 technical papers, and later went on to found Peel College in Canada. How did your early life in Pilani and your engineering and research background shape your decision to become an education entrepreneur?
Growing up in Pilani, a town known for its strong academic culture and disciplined learning environment, deeply influenced my outlook toward education Being surrounded by an ecosystem that valued knowledge, research, and innovation instilled in me a strong respect for structured learning and intellectual curiosity from an early age
As an Electronics Engineer, my academic journey was rooted in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and research excellence Publishing over 50 technical papers strengthened my ability to think critically, work systematically, and pursue continuous improvement
Engineering taught me that every challenge has a solution if approached with clarity and persistence Research, on the other hand, taught me patience, depth, and the importance of contributing meaningful knowledge to society
However, while I enjoyed technical research, I gradually realized that my true passion lay not just in innovation, but in empowering others through education. When I moved to Canada, I saw a growing need for practical, career-focused training that could bridge the gap between academic theory and workforce readiness That realization led to the founding of Peel College of Professional Studies
My engineering background gave me structure; my research career gave me credibility; and my early life in Pilani gave me purpose Together, they shaped my journey into education entrepreneurship
Peel College focuses on programs aligned with NOC standards and labour market needs. How do you ensure that your programs stay relevant to industry demands, and what does effective industry–institute collaboration look like in practice?
At Peel College, our priority is to provide education that directly prepares students for meaningful careers To ensure our programs stay relevant, we align every curriculum with NOC (National Occupational Classification) standards and continuously monitor Canadian labour market trends This alignment ensures that the skills our students acquire are exactly what employers are seeking, from foundational competencies to specialized technical abilities
We maintain close relationships with industry partners through advisory boards, internships, and direct consultations Employers share insights on evolving job roles, emerging technologies, and skill gaps, which informs both curriculum design and course updates For example, in programs for early childcare assistants, medical office administration, and Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, we integrate real-world case studies, practical projects, and simulation exercises that reflect current industry practices
Effective industry–institute collaboration goes beyond curriculum alignment It includes mentorship programs, guest lectures by field professionals, and co-op or internship opportunities where students gain hands-on experience These collaborations also provide feedback loops, allowing our faculty to adapt courses to changing workplace demands.
By combining NOC-aligned curricula, proactive industry engagement, and experiential learning, Peel College ensures students graduate not only with credentials but with the practical skills, confidence, and professional readiness that employers value, creating a seamless pathway from classroom to career
You place strong emphasis on internships, job-readiness training, and employer partnerships. Can you share an example of how these pathways have helped students transition into meaningful employment—and what you believe every career college should be doing in this area?
At Peel College, we view education as incomplete without practical, hands-on experience that bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world careers. Internships, job-readiness training, and strong employer partnerships are central to this approach For instance, in our early Childcare assistant, students participate in structured internships with local childcare and day care centres, and home daycare One student, for example, gained practical customer service ,medical office administration and accounting experience through a three-month internship, coupled with our resume-building workshops and interview coaching This combination not only enhanced her technical skills but also boosted her confidence, ultimately leading to a full-time role immediately after graduation
These pathways work because they integrate learning with exposure to workplace expectations, professional communication, and problem-solving in live environments Employer partnerships allow us to understand the specific skills in demand and to tailor our training accordingly, ensuring graduates meet industry standards from day one
I believe every career college should adopt a similar model: align programs with industry requirements, provide immersive internships, and offer comprehensive jobreadiness training, including soft skills, interview preparation, and networking strategies When done effectively, this creates a seamless transition for students into meaningful employment, builds employer trust in graduates, and establishes the institution as a trusted partner in workforce development
Maintaining academic quality while innovating with hybrid delivery, technology, and new fields like AI and cybersecurity is a big undertaking. What systems or principles guide you in continuously improving curriculum, teaching, and student outcomes at Peel College?
At Peel College, maintaining academic quality while embracing innovation is guided by a commitment to rigor, relevance, and responsiveness Every program whether delivered in-person, online, or in hybrid formats is built on clearly defined learning outcomes aligned with NOC standards and labour market needs This ensures students acquire skills that are both current and practical
We employ a continuous improvement cycle for curriculum and teaching Faculty collaborate regularly to review course content, incorporating emerging trends in technology, AI, health related courses , and other high-demand fields Feedback from students, industry partners, and alumni is systematically collected and analyzed to identify gaps and opportunities for enhancement For instance, AI modules are integrated into our IT programs, combining theoretical foundations with hands-on labs, simulations, and realworld projects
Technology also supports teaching excellence through interactive learning platforms, adaptive assessments, and analytics that track student progress Faculty receive ongoing professional development to master these tools and to apply innovative instructional strategies
Ultimately, our guiding principle is student-centered education: every improvement is measured by how effectively it prepares learners for meaningful careers By combining structured quality assurance, industry-informed content, technology-enabled learning, and responsive teaching practices, Peel College ensures both academic excellence and practical readiness in a rapidly evolving workforce
As a woman who has built a respected institution and received honours from the World Marketing Summit, Parliament, and community leaders, what message would you share with women who want to build mission-driven educational ventures that truly change lives?
To women aspiring to build mission-driven educational ventures, I would say: believe in your vision and let purpose guide every decision Building an institution is not just about infrastructure or programs; it is about creating opportunities that empower students, transform communities, and leave a lasting impact Passion, perseverance, and resilience are essential because the journey will have challenges, from regulatory requirements to evolving industry needs
I have learned that credibility comes from combining expertise with integrity My background in engineering and research taught me discipline and analytical thinking, while my experience in education showed me the importance of empathy, mentorship, and collaboration Recognition from institutions like the World Marketing Summit, Parliament, and community leaders is meaningful, but the true reward lies in seeing students succeed, grow, and contribute to society
I encourage women to build networks, seek guidance, and embrace collaboration no venture thrives in isolation Focus on aligning your programs with real-world needs, invest in continuous learning, and remain adaptable to change. Most importantly, lead with heart and vision. When women step into education with purpose and courage, they don’t just create institutions they shape futures, ignite potential, and leave a legacy that goes far beyond accolades
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this interview are those of the featured guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of She & Success Our mission is to spotlight women leaders, their entrepreneurial journeys, and their impact providing insights that inspire and empower women entrepreneurs and small business leaders across Canada
In Canada, thousands of women are beginning their businesses from co-working spaces, kitchen tables, and corner offices They frequently do this alone, balancing risk, accountability, and self-doubt By providing a potent combination of funding, advisory services, training, and community, programs designed specifically for female entrepreneurs are turning that "solo struggle" into supported growth These resources, which range from national networks such as Futurpreneur and WEDO Canada to Western Canada Women Enterprise Initiative organizations, are transforming entrepreneurs into self-assured leaders and ideas into tangible results
The Women's Enterprise Initiative in Western Canada
The Women Enterprise Initiative (WEI) provides funding in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba Each province has a federally funded agency that provides loans, advisory services, training, and networking to women-owned enterprises WeBC in British Columbia offers business loans, one-on-one advice, skill training, and peer learning opportunities to women at all stages of their careers
Alberta Women Entrepreneurs provides similar services, including financing, accelerator programs, and mentorship, to help women develop their business plans and access capital Both provinces emphasize practicality With experienced advice and a well-defined growth strategy, founders transition from uncertainty to informed decision-making.
The Women's Enterprise Initiative in Western Canada
The Women Enterprise Initiative (WEI) provides funding in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba Each province has a federally funded agency that provides loans, advisory services, training, and networking to women-owned enterprises WeBC in British Columbia offers business loans, oneon-one advice, skill training, and peer learning opportunities to women at all stages of their careers
Alberta Women Entrepreneurs provides similar services, including financing, accelerator programs, and mentorship, to help women develop their business plans and access capital Both provinces emphasize practicality With experienced advice and a well-defined growth strategy, founders transition from uncertainty to informed decision-making
Saskatchewan and Manitoba Building Sustainable Enterprises
Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan (WESK) provides advice, training, networking, and financing to help women transform their ideas into viable businesses WESK offers a range of services, including start-up coaching, financial planning, growth-focused training, and peer mentorship, recognizing that leadership skills improve with each stage of organizational growth
Manitoba Womens Enterprise Centre Inc, now operating as WeMB, assists women and gender-diverse entrepreneurs in Manitoba by providing consulting services, training, networking, and loans of up to $150,000. Experienced advisers assist customers in refining business models, creating financial predictions, and navigating expansion or acquisition options Across these provinces, the strategy combines education and capital to help women build both skill sets and financial foundations
An Integrated Ecosystem of Capital
and Coaching
The Women Enterprise Initiative concept is distinguished by its emphasis on integration Rather than providing only cash or training, these groups integrate business education, one-on-one consulting, peer accountability, and access to loans into a single ecosystem
A founder may start with a workshop, then work with an advisor to refine a strategy, join a peer cohort for accountability, and finally secure funding to execute the plan This layered approach enhances both leadership capacity and financial strength Women move beyond seeing themselves as small-business owners and begin to function as employers, negotiators, and economic contributors in their communities.
Futurpreneur and Early Stage Momentum
Nationally, Futurpreneur broadens this path for founders aged 18 to 39 Futurpreneur's Women in Entrepreneurship Initiative provides start-up capital, up to two years of mentorship, and focused training Although fewer than one-fifth of Canadian businesses are majority-owned by women, Futurpreneur supports 42-44 percent of womenowned enterprises Targeted programming has obviously increased accessibility
Futurpreneur provides loans through a collaboration with BDC, structured company planning tools, and a national mentor network The Women in Entrepreneurship Initiative expands peer communities and workshops to address real challenges such as pricing confidence, scaling strategy, and access to financing Since 1996, almost 7,000 women entrepreneurs have received assistance, including significant involvement in Black and Indigenous entrepreneur initiatives.
WEDO Canada and Building the Future Pipeline
WEDO Canada fosters the development of future female entrepreneurs through education, scholarships, and national awareness WEDO Canada, as part of the global Women's Entrepreneurship Day movement, provides mentorship, scholarships, and annual summits to both aspiring and existing entrepreneurs The foundation intends to award $1 million in scholarships to women pursuing entrepreneurship, business, or STEM while operating their own businesses
Every November, women attend educational summits that connect them with role models, training, and national networks. WEDO Canada fosters long-term leadership potential by integrating academic growth and practical entrepreneurship Federal Policy and a Broader National Network
At the government level, the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy provides policy support, including the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, which gives microloans of up to $50,000 to underserved women through charity partnerships. National and regional networks, such as the Women's Enterprise Organizations of Canada and NLOWE in Newfoundland and Labrador, offer advice, mentoring, and financing opportunities
Private and nonprofit initiatives, such as grant support platforms and community-based fundraising structures, broaden the range of alternatives Together, these programs provide multiple access points for female founders seeking funding, skills, or connections.
From
First Step to Lasting Impact
For many women, leadership starts with a single conversation A founder in Saskatoon may schedule an advisory session at WESK to clarify a company plan A newcomer to Winnipeg may attend a training session at WeMB and discover funding that aligns with their personal ambitions A young entrepreneur in Halifax may be eligible for a Futurpreneur loan and a mentor.
A student in Calgary may attend a WEDO Canada conference and be awarded a scholarship that supports both education and enterprise In each case, the transition from solitude to structured support alters the trajectory Confidence develops alongside expertise. Strategy replaces ambiguity Leadership becomes attainable
Moving Beyond Celebration to Structural Change
As International Women's Day approaches in March, these programs show that genuine support extends beyond acknowledgment Canada is implementing frameworks to help women access funding, refine their strategies, and expand their networks The emphasis is on practicality Provide tools Provide financing Provide a community For women with ideas, the message is clear There is support available
From Western Canada's Women Enterprise Initiative organizations to Futurpreneur, WEDO Canada, and national funding plans, there are clear paths to take from concept to growth With organized guidance and access to capital, daily efforts transform into long-term influence and leadership
Subscribeto She & Success Business Magazine and follow us on she&successca to stay updated on funding opportunities, entrepreneurial insights, and inspiring stories of women making a difference across Canada
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence
Building ModernLuxury: Sogol Onsori onLeading WishDryBar
In an exclusive interview with She & Success Business Magazine, Sogol Onsori, Founder and CEO of Wish Dry Bar, shares the journey behind building one of Vancouver’s most refined beauty brands What began as a bold idea to reimagine the traditional salon experience has evolved into a growing, multi-location luxury concept rooted in intention, empowerment, and elevated service
Sogol Onsori is the founder and CEO of Wish Dry Bar, a luxury beauty brand redefining the dry bar experience through elevated design, intentional service, and community-driven culture. Originally from Tehran, Iran, Sogol moved to Canada at 13 and later graduated from the University of British Columbia. She launched Wish Dry Bar in January 2021 with a bold vision: to create a refined, confidence-boosting space where women feel celebrated - not just styled. Under her leadership, Wish has grown into a team of 14 and continues to expand its footprint while staying rooted in exceptional client experience, modern femininity, and thoughtful entrepreneurship For Sogol, Wish is more than a beauty destination - it’s a brand built on empowerment, growth, and creating meaningful moments for both clients and team members
You launched Wish Dry Bar in January 2021 with a vision to create a space where women feel truly celebrated, not just styled. What moment or experience first sparked the idea for Wish, and how did you find the courage to pursue it?
The idea for Wish began around 2015 during my corporate years I was traveling constantly for meetings, and on planes and in airport lounges I kept a running note on my phone of everything I felt was missing from the traditional dry bar experience I wasnt just thinking about hair I was thinking about how women should feel in the space
Timing played a big role In 2020, after moving to West Vancouver and with travel paused, I came across a former toy store available for lease Something about the moment felt aligned Even though the world was uncertain, I trusted the vision enough to take the meeting, present my concept, and ultimately sign a five-year lease
From there, I partnered with Peter Wilds, secured the domain in March 2020, and began building what would become Wish Dry Bar
Courage, for me, wasn’t a single bold moment it was the decision to act when the vision kept returning When something stays with you that persistently, it’s usually worth listening to
Growing from your original concept to a new location inside the Fairmont Pacific Rim is a big milestone. What have been the biggest lessons in scaling a luxury, service-based brand while protecting the quality and consistency of the client experience?
Opening inside the Fairmont Pacific Rim was a defining milestone, but scaling a luxury service brand requires discipline behind the scenes.
The downtown market is very different from West Vancouver clients expect both elevated quality and efficiency Protecting consistency started with hiring I reviewed over 120 applications, conducted multiple rounds of interviews, and personally tested final candidates for both technical skill and attitude Culture fit was just as important as talent
We hired three months before opening to ensure proper training By launch day, the team was fully aligned with our service standards, product knowledge, POS systems, and most importantly our client experience philosophy They had already worked with Wish clients and understood our expectations
The biggest lesson in scaling is this: you cannot compromise on standards in the name of growth. Systems, training, and preparation must be stronger at location two than they were at location one
You often say that your greatest joy has come from building the team behind the brand. How do you intentionally cultivate culture, mentorship, and long-term growth for your 14-person team, and what does “people-first” leadership look like in your day-to-day?
Building the team behind Wish Dry Bar has been one of my greatest joys While I created the brand’s vision and standards, it’s my team who bring the experience to life every single day Because of that, people-first leadership for me starts with trust, protection, and real investment in their growth.
I make it a priority that every team member feels supported and empowered to take ownership of their role Many of our leaders have grown with us from guest ambassador to stylist to management which is something I’m incredibly proud of Seeing that evolution confirms we are building more than a workplace; we are building careers
When your team feels valued and inspired, they naturally deliver exceptional service For me, culture isn’t a program it’s something we live every day
Wish is known for its refined, calming spaces where clients can pause, reset, and leave feeling like the best version of themselves. How do you think about modern luxury in 2026 beyond aesthetics and what details matter most to you in creating that feeling?
For me, modern luxury in 2026 is no longer about excess it’s about intention It’s about how a space makes you feel the moment you walk in
I always found traditional salons to feel cluttered and overstimulating With Wish, I wanted the opposite: light, airy, calming Every detail was considered Towels are tucked away in closed drawers The back bar is impeccably maintained The palette is soft and warm, and the architectural arches create a sense of flow and comfort
Beyond aesthetics, modern luxury is about respect for a client’s time, energy, and senses When she leaves, she should feel lighter, polished, and like the best version of herself That feeling that pause and reset is the true luxury
Looking back on your journey from Tehran to Vancouver and from corporate life to multilocation founder, what advice would you share with other women who want to build and scale a values-driven service business without losing the heart of what makes it special?
Over the past two decades in the investment industry, I built meaningful relationships and a strong foundation that ultimately gave me the confidence to pursue my creative dream founding Wish Dry Bar My biggest advice to women building values-driven service businesses is this: stay deeply connected to your “why,” and let technology support your growth without replacing your human touch.
For me, scaling has been possible because I built systems that give me real-time visibility into the business Whether I’m in Calgary for work or in Vancouver, I can log in within minutes and understand exactly what’s happening in the salon That operational clarity creates freedom
But the heart must always come first Wish was born from something personal I wanted to create a space where women feel relaxed, cared for, and able to truly enjoy self-care As you grow, protect that original intention fiercely Processes and expansion matter, but your brand’s emotional experience is what clients remember and what ultimately sustains long-term success
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this interview are those of the featured guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of She & Success Our mission is to spotlight women leaders, their entrepreneurial journeys, and their impact providing insights that inspire and empower women entrepreneurs and small business leaders across Canada.
The federal Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES), a whole-of-government approach that currently totals approximately $7 billion in commitments and investments, is at the heart of this change Enhancing access to funds, bolstering the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and promoting research and data through the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) are the three main pillars on which WES is based, and they are all related to the funding challenge. WES offers a long-term infrastructure that is changing how women access markets, capital, and expertise, rather than relying on one-time initiatives
The most obvious aspect of the funding gap is addressed by the first pillar, which focuses on expanding access to financing WES provides microfinance, targeted loans, and a venture capital program to increase the number of female founders in Canada's venture capital industry These actions support bigger initiatives to increase women ' s access to grants, equity investments, and higher loan amounts from national banks In addition to getting women "in the door," the objective is to ensure they can secure the type and amount of financing required for expansion, export, or innovation
Women entrepreneurs in Canada have long faced a glaring financial gap: they are more likely to rely on personal savings or family loans, are accepted for smaller amounts at higher rates, and are less likely to receive corporate financing Although the gap remains, the nation is gradually shifting from a lack of funding to funding capacity through new initiatives, targeted policies, and ecosystem-wide cooperation
Collectively, these initiatives are helping women transform innovative concepts into profitable, long-lasting enterprises
According to WEKH's 2025 report, 274% of womenowned SMEs obtained funding from financial institutions, compared with 287% of men-owned SMEs Women have historically relied more on friends and family and received less institutional financing; today, they are still more likely to request smaller amounts, but they receive a larger share of the funds they request 92.2% of requested funds, compared to 87.7% for SMEs majority-owned by men This implies that, even as acceptance and interest rates remain high, lenders are increasingly supporting women when they apply
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The second WES pillar aims to boost the ecosystem surrounding female founders Entrepreneurs require networks, mentors expertise to manage complex financial institutions, as funding alone is insufficie Through the WES Ecosystem Fund and re initiatives, the federal government inves organizations that deliver tailored suppo women, including financial literacy prog mentorship, accelerator cohorts, and specialized advisory services. These eco partners help women become "fundingby preparing strong business plans, understanding various types of financin presenting compelling cases to lenders investors
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WEKH, the third pillar, brings everything by creating and sharing the data requir build better solutions WEKH, hosted by Toronto Metropolitan University, brings together scholars, government officials, financial institutions, and support organizations to track women ' s access to capital and promote good practices The papers on women ' s entrepreneurship, financing issues, and emerging solutions help policymakers and ecosystem leaders identify gaps and effective actions WEKH guarantees that Canada's efforts to fund female entrepreneurs are evidence-based, not based on guesswork.
Turning Targeted Support into Real Business Outcomes for Women Entrepreneurs
Futurpreneur, like WES, has become a great example of how targeted programming can transform promise into supported firms Futurpreneur's Women in Entrepreneurship Initiative, supported by TD, is specifically created for female creators aged 18-39 across Canada It builds on Futurpreneur's core premise of providing up to $75,000 in accessible financing, along with up to two years of mentorship and practical tools to help entrepreneurs flourish For many young women, this combination of capital and guidance is the bridge between a promising idea and a functioning company
There’s a Lot More To Do To Close Gender Disparities
These activities are important because the funding gap is more than the numbers on a loan application. WEKH and partner research reveal that women entrepreneurs continue to face systemic impediments, including gender bias in investor decision-making, smaller "cheque sizes" from lenders and investors, and a greater burden of unpaid work, which limit their ability to pursue development opportunities Indigenous, Black, immigrant, and colored women typically face a "double gap, " meaning they face both gender-based and racial/cultural challenges to funding Programs that combine finance, mentorship, networks, and specialized support are more effective than capital alone in addressing these intersecting hurdles
Clear Direction In Canada’s Equity Movement
The direction of travel is clear: Canada is progressively transitioning from a "funding gap " to one marked by growing "financial strength" for female founders. WES offers the policy framework, WEKH provides the facts, and groups like Futurpreneur translate both into actionable steps for real businesses For women with ideas from software startups and Femtech ventures to local service firms and social enterprises the message is becoming increasingly clear: you are not alone, and there are tangible programs in place to help you gain access to the financing, mentorship, and networks you need to succeed
The next stage is to scale As more lenders, investors, and ecosystem stakeholders align with WES principles and adopt models such as Futurpreneur's, exceptions may become the norm When that happens, "financing power " for female entrepreneurs will no longer be a fringe issue; it will be a defining feature of Canada's entrepreneurial sector
Women business owners throughout Canada are subtly but firmly a leadership They are a hierarchical structure companies grounded and long-term impac demonstrate that bol rewriting the script ra an outdated mold
Women currently occ management position sized firms in Canada the global average of women constitute mo leaders in Canadian S decisions regarding s investment, and innov percentage has decre the previous year, it s multi-year increase in senior positions. It ind balanced leadership rather than the excep
Women Hold Key Positions In Canada's Mid-market
This headline statistic obscures a key story about the types of responsibilities that women are assuming Women now hold 422% of CFO posts, 393% of CHRO roles, and significant shares of CMO, COO, CIO, and CEO positions in Canada's midmarket and SME sectors These appointments have a significant impact on capital allocation, culture, and other key decision-making functions When women entrepreneurs assume these roles, whether as owners or executives in developing businesses, they bring fresh perspectives on risk, opportunity, and what success entails
ImageCourtesy:Canva
Women Entrepreneurs Exemplifying The Leadership Practice In New-age Sectors
According to WEKH's research, women entrepreneurs are influencing not only who leads, but also how leadership is conducted. Womenowned SMEs are more likely than other SMEs to have a clear goal or social mandate and to practice environmental sustainability Businesses that prioritize social purpose, including responsible sourcing, inclusive employment, and community connections, tend to have a higher proportion of these individuals This type of leadership prioritizes long-term resilience, shared prosperity, and improved partnership between business and society, rather than quarterly results alone
This impact-driven strategy is particularly obvious in new and rapidly changing sectors WEKH reports that womenowned SMEs are adopting AI, increasing their presence in Femtech, and expanding into traditionally male-dominated areas such as construction These entrepreneurs are not simply entering existing markets; they are transforming them, frequently inventing products and services to address unmet needs and underserved clients They challenge the idea that women-led firms are limited to specific "acceptable" sectors
At the same time, female entrepreneurs are changing the definition of team and organizational leadership Companies with explicit gender diversity targets in leadership frequently see an increase in the number of women in senior roles, and many are now aiming for more than 40% of senior positions to be held by women, according to research on Canadian corporations The influence of leaders, many of whom are women, who recognize that diverse leadership teams perform better than homogeneous ones and who are prepared to set clear goals, examine promotion procedures, and hold themselves accountable, is responsible for this change
Women Understand That Parity Remains A Work in Progress
Demonstrating bold leadership also entails acknowledging that equity remains a work in progress Two-thirds of senior management positions are still held by men, despite women comprising 347% of the workforce Women continue to confront obstacles such as skewed perceptions of risk, unequal access to growth-oriented financing, and the demands of providing unpaid care Governments, financial institutions, support groups, and the private sector must work together to address these structural issues, which are not personal failings, according to WEKH's State of Women's Entrepreneurship studies.
Many Canadian women entrepreneurs stand out for their audacious leadership and refusal to wait for ideal circumstances When mainstream financing is insufficient, they seek women-focused lenders and programs, create peer networks when traditional networks are unavailable, and use their platforms to mentor the next generation of female entrepreneurs Their leadership style is cooperative rather than competitive, emphasizing helping others succeed and creating opportunities rather than protecting them In a world that prizes flexibility, empathy, and creativity, this relational, daily leadership style is increasingly recognized as a competitive advantage
Canada Prepares For a Future-Ready Visible Women’s Leadership
The question in Canada's future is not whether women can lead, but rather what will happen when their leadership is fully accepted and apparent According to the findings, firms are more likely to be resilient, inclusive, and sustainable when women hold key positions and sit on the board of directors Boldly leading as a woman entrepreneur involves continuing to assert one ' s presence in boardrooms, cap tables, new sectors, and policy and strategy discussions It entails providing these leaders with the resources, connections, and acknowledgment that they are due by the larger ecosystem
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence
HowIndigenous WomenEntrepreneurs
AreRedefiningLeadership andLegacy
Indigenous women entrepreneurs are spearheading cultural revival, economic revitalization, and community care initiatives across Canada, all on their own terms These companies are more than just revenue streams. They facilitate long-term community well-being, language and cultural preservation, and selfdetermination Entrepreneurship is an act of perseverance and leadership in a setting formed by colonization and structural barriers
NACCA and the Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneur Program
Through the Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneur Program, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association is instrumental in furthering this effort The initiative, introduced in March 2022, is administered by more than 30 Indigenous Financial Institutions across Canada This framework ensures support is grounded in local connections and community realities
From initial concept through expansion, the program supports Indigenous women at every stage of business development Access to funding, advisory services, help with company planning, training, and mentoring are all examples of support Building long-term capability and confidence is just as important as funding firms
Measurable Impact Across Communities
The program ' s reach is substantial. Participating Indigenous Financial Institutions have approved more than 600 loans worth more than 114 million dollars since 2022, trained about 5,000 participants, and provided more than 5,000 advising services More than 1,000 women in urban, rural, and remote regions have received help and hundreds of microloans, according to other partners
Every loan and workshop is a step toward starting or growing a company, with a long-term goal, culture, and community The diversity of Indigenous women ' s entrepreneurship across Canada is reflected in these businesses, which range from home-based services to bigger growth-oriented endeavours
Flexible Financing Designed for Reality
One of the biggest obstacles facing Indigenous entrepreneurs is still access to funding. In response, the Indigenous Women's Entrepreneur Program offers adaptable financing options Many loans are structured as microloans with partially forgivable or nonrepayable components
Growing Representation and Leadership
Recent data indicate that entrepreneurship is increasingly popular among Indigenous women Compared with 19.5 percent of non-Indigenous business owners, women account for about 232 percent of Indigenous business owners This change indicates that the Indigenous economy is becoming more resilient and involved Leaders are boosting local economies, filling service shortages, and generating jobs behind the numbers In industries where Indigenous voices have historically been marginalized, entrepreneurship becomes a means of asserting Indigenous knowledge and reclaiming economic agency
Starting a business is frequently driven by a desire to give back to the community, fill in service gaps in the area, and open doors for others, according to WEKH’s research on Indigenous women ' s entrepreneurship Businesses can include land-based education, cultural tourism, language and arts programs, professional services, internet businesses, and construction In each instance, the entrepreneur is not only creating a business but also promoting communal goals and claiming Indigenous expertise and control in the marketplace
Entrepreneurship as Economic Reconciliation
This strategy acknowledges the fact that many Indigenous women run their businesses while also managing caregiving obligations, systematic underbanking, and limited collateral The approach reduces risk and increases access to entrepreneurship by adapting financial tools to reflect real-world conditions.
Establishing a business is a practical manifestation of economic reconciliation for many Indigenous women. According to research, motivations frequently involve addressing unmet needs, giving back to the community, and opening doors for others Businesses include digital endeavours, professional services, landbased education, cultural tourism, language revitalization programs, and construction.
Every company supports Indigenous governance, values, and ways of knowing within the larger economy while also contributing to community objectives In this situation, economic reconciliation is not merely symbolic. It is concrete, created through employment, ownership, and reinvestment in the community's welfare
Ongoing Barriers and Structural Challenges
Compounding hurdles still exist despite advancements Limited access to financing continues to be the most critical barrier, compounded by systematic racism, geographic isolation, and infrastructure constraints. Because traditional lenders may not offer terms that meet their needs, many Indigenous women start their enterprises with personal funds
Additional obstacles arise from structural factors such as jurisdictional complexity, persistent discrimination, and reservation property ownership arrangements Even really talented businesspeople frequently have to put in more effort to gain market access, capital, and recognition Designing solutions that go beyond temporary fixes requires an understanding of these obstacles
Policy Momentum and Expanded Support
The importance of Indigenous women in local economies is increasingly recognized, as evidenced by recent federal initiatives New funding to enhance the Indigenous Women's Entrepreneurship Program, administered in collaboration with NACCA, was announced in March 2024 Up to 2,400 Indigenous women will benefit from the investment by having access to resources and tools that will enable them to launch and grow their companies
These actions are directly related to improving economic reconciliation and boosting economic engagement in Canada Systemic change is more attainable when entrepreneurs, community institutions, and policymakers are aligned
Networks and Collective Strength Take Things Beyond Financing
Help goes beyond finance Business Assistance Officers, workshops for skill development, and customized consulting services offer continuous direction Organizations like the Indigenous Women's Circle provide forums for group activism, peer education, and cooperative problem-solving These community-based resources foster confidence and competence while lowering feelings of isolation. They also reaffirm that you don't have to pursue entrepreneurship alone It can be community-driven, culturally based, and cooperative
Reshaping the Economy on Their Own Terms
While the work of Indigenous women entrepreneurs continues year-round, International Women's Day emphasizes themes of inclusivity and faster action Concrete initiatives toward significant change include bolstering Indigenous-owned enterprises, promoting fair access to capital, and elevating Indigenous perspectives in economic policy Indigenous women throughout Canada are demonstrating that starting a business can lead to both individual and collective healing
Ideas are being turned into businesses that respect tradition, safeguard people and land, and create new opportunities for future generations, thanks to initiatives such as the Indigenous Women's Entrepreneur Program and the power of community networks Indigenous women entrepreneurs are doing more than participating in the market Guided by their own priorities, knowledge, and vision for the future, they are transforming it
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Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence
Across Canada, an increasing number of women and gender-diverse founders are creating businesses that prioritize people and the environment Feminist entrepreneurship is reimagining how companies might promote fairness, inclusion, and community well-being while remaining financially viable It is an intentional decision to measure success by dignity, fairness, shared prosperity, and profit
The Canadian Women’s Foundation as a National Catalyst
ImageCourtesy:Canva
The Canadian Women's Foundation (CWF) has been a crucial driver of this movement through its national "Partnering for Feminist Entrepreneurship" project, funded by the Government of Canada's Women Entrepreneurship Strategy. The project partners with seven organizations nationwide to offer education, training, mentorship, and networking opportunities for women and gender-diverse entrepreneurs facing systemic challenges Its goal is simple but ambitious: to make it easier for diverse founders to build businesses that reflect feminist principles while also changing the systems that have historically excluded them
The Feminist Business Summit and Community Building
One of the project's most visible initiatives is the Feminist Business Summit, a learning and networking event that has brought together entrepreneurs and support organizations in cities such as Winnipeg and Montréal These summits teach participants how to integrate equality, inclusion, and sustainability into their business models, including product and service design, ownership structure, and decision-making Connecting with peers who have similar ideals reinforces feminist entrepreneurship as a growing aspect of Canada's small company ecosystem
Redefining the Core Questions of Business
At its foundation, feminist entrepreneurship is about changing the fundamental questions that a firm asks. Feminist entrepreneurs prioritize addressing community needs, reducing violence, sharing power, and building long-term resilience over profit maximization According to a CWF op-ed, feminist businesses stress community care and inclusion, remove barriers to equal participation for women and gender-diverse individuals, and foster collaborative, ethical workplaces that benefit all. This entails questioning old ideas about what constitutes " success " and whose interests businesses should serve
Building Inclusive and Equitable Workplaces
Women-led companies in Canada demonstrate these ideals in actual ways When employing, feminist entrepreneurs purposefully build workplaces that accept those who have been marginalized in traditional labour markets, such as racialized women, newcomers, people with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ groups Policies such as flexible scheduling, living salaries, antiharassment procedures, and clear promotion criteria help address workplace inequities Rather than viewing these as benefits, they regard them as critical to establishing dignity and stability for their teams
Aligning Pricing and Revenue with Values
Pricing and revenue patterns may also reflect feminist beliefs Feminist entrepreneurs use sliding-scale pricing, community pricing, or cross-subsidization to ensure lower-income individuals have access to their products or services Others prioritize fairness and sustainability over short-term profit by limiting growth in specific regions or resisting exploitative behaviours Feminist business tools, such as the Feminist Business Model Canvas, which is used in CWF training, help founders design models that deliver value not only to owners and investors but also to workers, communities, and the environment.
Feminist Entrepreneurship in Practice
Real-world examples illustrate these principles. The Partnering for Feminist Entrepreneurship project has reached more than 2,000 entrepreneurs, including Félicité Donyo and Lisa Noto, owners of the ethical clothing brand TUKUAN in Montréal, which is grounded in feminist and environmental values. TUKUAN, a recognized B Corp, prioritizes equality, community, and environmental responsibility in material, production, and marketing decisions Their company exemplifies how feminist entrepreneurship can manifest in everyday operations: selecting suppliers that share their values, paying attention to labour conditions, and portraying varied bodies and identities in their brand storytelling
This technique has macro-level ramifications According to articles on feminist entrepreneurship, achieving gender equality and expanding women ' s participation in the workforce and entrepreneurship may boost Canada's GDP by $150 billion Feminist enterprises help to realize this potential by providing avenues to income and leadership for those who confront systematic prejudice, such as immigrant and Indigenous women These enterprises provide culturally relevant goods and services, preserve traditions, and promote self-determination in underserved or adversely affected communities
Beyond International Women’s Day
While International Women's Day and March are ideal times to spotlight feminist entrepreneurship, the effort is ongoing throughout the year The Canadian Women's Foundation uses events such as the Feminist Business Summit and financing-gap webinars to turn awareness into action, helping entrepreneurs and allies create workplaces and business models that embody feminist values every day, not only on March 8 Women founders may consider equity when revising policies, adjusting pricing for low-income clients, or selecting partners who share their dedication to justice and inclusion
A New Definition of Business Success
As feminist entrepreneurship gains visibility in Canada, it offers a compelling answer to a pressing question: what if business were designed to prioritize gender equity, community care, and environmental responsibility alongside profit? The work of the Canadian Women's Foundation and its partners indicates that this is not only conceivable, but is already taking place in businesses of all sizes, from single consultancies to burgeoning social enterprises In that way, feminist entrepreneurship is more than a label; it is a daily practice of creating purposedriven firms and an opportunity to reconsider what " success " means for both entrepreneurs and communities
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Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence.
HowWirelessPnCIsCharging theFutureofCleanMobility
ArticleByWirelessPnC
In a world racing toward zero-emission transportation, a Canadian cleantech pioneer is reinventing how electric and autonomous vehicles recharge Wireless PnC, based in Victoria, British Columbia, is on a mission to make charging simple, widespread, and truly wireless - moving away from wires and plugs and toward an integrated future of sustainable mobility Wireless PnC, founded in January 2023, develops universal wireless charging infrastructure for light electric vehicles (LEVs) and emerging autonomous mobility systems, including e-bikes, escooters, delivery robots, and other automated ground platforms, all powered through a single adaptable charging architecture It aims to remove traditional charging hurdles and promote global adoption of EVs, AVs and micromobility solutions
A Vision of Seamless Charging
Wireless PnC technology addresses a long-time issue in EV infrastructure: fragmentation Today's charging ecosystem comprises numerous incompatible standards and complex plug-in methods Wireless PnC's approach uses resonant inductive charging, enabling compatible electric and autonomous vehicles to recharge simply by parking on a wireless pad
This strategy eliminates cords, reduces maintenance, and improves convenience for both users and operators. According to the company, its inductive technology can operate efficiently across various air gaps and deliver power transfer rates comparable to or exceeding traditional plug-in chargers, while integrating with existing infrastructure with minimal disruption
Wireless PnC's technology is designed to support multiple mobility and infrastructure segments:
Fleet operators deploying light electric and autonomous vehicles seeking automated, lowmaintenance charging solutions
OEM partners integrating wireless charging into next-generation electric and autonomous platforms.
Municipal, campus, and smart infrastructure environments aiming to enable seamless and scalable electrified mobility
Industrial, logistics, and harsh environments where reliable, automated charging improves operational efficiency and safety.
Innovation at the Helm
Wireless PnC stands out in the cleantech and advanced mobility space for both its technology and its leadership Dr Sahar Sam, Director and Co-Founder, brings extensive technical expertise and a strong commitment to sustainability and diversity in technology Dr Sam holds a PhD in Mechanical and Materials Science and founded Solaires Entreprises Inc , a clean technology firm specializing in photovoltaic solutions
Her journey from renewable energy research to electric and autonomous mobility charging infrastructure demonstrates a sustained commitment to advancing climate technology Dr Sam's early experiences in Iran shaped her perspective on energy instability, prompting her to pursue solutions that make clean technology more accessible and reliable She remains a strong advocate for women in STEM and technology leadership roles.
Dr. Sam is joined by co-founder and CEO, Dr. Samira Soltani, whose background in mechanical engineering and automotive systems supports the company ’ s transition toward scalable light-electric and autonomous charging solutions The leadership team combines academic rigour with real-world problemsolving, supported by a growing multidisciplinary engineering and commercialization team
Women-Led
Tech Advancements and Industry Positioning
Wireless PnC technology has garnered attention beyond Canada's borders A recent industry spotlight highlighted the company ' s focus on micromobility and its Asia-Pacific expansion, where crowded metropolitan areas and e-bike and e-scooter fleets create significant demand for standardized charging options In that regard, Wireless PnC is collaborating with partners in Taiwan's advanced manufacturing ecosystem and seeking strategic investments to scale hardware and drive regional expansion
The same research highlighted the company ' s proprietary coil designs and shielding processes, resulting in an estimated 95% power transmission efficiency - significantly higher than that of average plug-in systems This efficiency gain may lower overall energy consumption while enhancing uptime for shared and fleet vehicles.
Wireless PnC has completed prototype development, indoor validation, and initial pilot deployments in Canada The company continues expanding real-world testing across institutional, fleet, and controlled environments to validate performance at scale
Positioning for Growth and Impact
Despite being in its infancy, Wireless PnC has already secured non-dilutive funding totalling about US$1 million through grants and subsidies, and is currently raising a pre-seed round to support commercialization, scaling, and collaborations with fleet operators and infrastructure partners
According to industry registrations, Wireless PnC is a privately held clean technology business operating at the intersection of advanced electrical systems, IoT-enabled infrastructure, and wireless charging for light electric and autonomous mobility. A significant investment in intellectual property is evidenced by the company ' s numerous patent filings related to coil technology and inductive charging methods
To further solidify its position as a diverse, mission-driven business in Canadas expanding cleantech sector, Wireless PnC also participates in startup ecosystems, including accelerators and innovation hubs that support women-led and climate-tech ventures
What’s Next for Wireless PnC
Looking forward, Wireless PnC seeks to:
Expand the use of wireless charging systems across light electric and autonomous vehicle fleets
Continue pilot deployments across urban, industrial, and controlled environments to validate performance at scale
Strengthen manufacturing partnerships and supply chain resilience.
Support smart infrastructure and automated mobility ecosystems with scalable wireless charging networks.
The company ' s long-term aim is clear: a future in which charging light electric and autonomous vehicles is as simple as parking, and clean transportation including bicycles, scooters, and cars is ubiquitous, accessible, and ecologically friendly
Leadership With Purpose
Wireless PnC's narrative is not solely about technology Dr Sahar Sam, a leader in inclusive innovation, advocates for clean transportation, automated mobility solutions, and greater representation in tech leadership With intelligent product development, worldwide ambitions, and a women-led mission, Wireless PnC exemplifies how Canadian companies are impacting the future of mobility and sustainability on a global scale.
Subscribe to She & Success Business Magazine and follow us on she&successca to stay updated on funding opportunities, entrepreneurial insights, and inspiring stories of women making a difference across Canada
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence
Award-winning women entrepreneurs in Canada demonstrate that success results from daily habits, decisions, and mindsets, rather than a single moment on stage The RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards, presented by Women of Influence+, offer a compelling glimpse into these stories, highlighting women excelling across fields from banking and construction to social impact and sustainable consumer goods Their stories offer practical lessons any entrepreneur can apply every day, especially in March, when International Women's Day encourages both celebration and action
Three Decades of Honouring Women Who Power Canada’s Economy
For more than three decades, the awards program has recognized Canada's top female business entrepreneurs, rewarding founders who promote economic growth, job creation, and social transformation. In 2024, winners came from diverse areas, including film and television, construction, economic reconciliation, hospitality, AI, medicine, and law In 2025, winners included leaders in financial services, e-commerce, healthcare, and environmental stewardship The industry does not unify them; rather, they share a commitment to leading with vision, resilience, and a strong sense of community responsibility
Another recipient of the 2025 Social Change Award – Regional Impact is Erin Seeley of YWCA Metro Vancouver, who exemplifies purpose-driven leadership The organization has prioritized improving housing stability, gender fairness, and opportunity for women and families throughout the region under her direction Consistent advocacy using every meeting, partnership, and program decision as an opportunity to promote more inclusive systems is the daily routine that underpins that influence This can translate into company owners asking one deliberate question every day, particularly in March: "How can my product, policy, or collaboration enhance equity in a concrete way?"
Treating innovation as a disciplined habit rather than a moment of brilliance is the second crucial lesson from RBC's award-winning entrepreneurs Chantal Michel of Librairie Raffin Inc, which has transformed the traditional bookstore business through digital technologies, diverse offerings, and customer-centric experiences, was awarded the Innovation Award in 2025 Her story shows that even in well-established businesses, innovation is not limited to tech companies; it is about continuously testing new ideas, listening to customers, and embracing change Building a weekly routine of experimentation trying one minor enhancement to a product, procedure, or client touchpoint and monitoring the results is a useful way for many entrepreneurs to put this into practice
A third everyday lesson is the importance of building a firm that aligns with your values at every level, from products to team culture
Nancy Wingham of Nuez Acres received the 2025 Micro-Business Award for her company ' s plantbased hair and skincare products made with sustainably sourced pecan oil Her brand is founded on clean products, ethical sourcing, and close customer engagement with customers who are conscious about what they put on their bodies. The daily habit that drives this success is alignment: ensuring that decisions concerning suppliers, packaging, marketing, and relationships are consistent with the ideals that drew customers in the first place.
2025 Start‐Up Award recipient, Alexa Suter of Huha
Alexa Suter of Huha, a 2025 Start-Up Award recipient, focuses on comfort, body positivity, and health in her underwear designs, which have helped drive rapid growth for the apparel firm Huha demonstrates how listening to customer needs can lead to strong product-market fit through mineral-infused fabrics and design choices that address real-world discomfort for women Talking to at least one client every day, whether through DMs, surveys, or in-person chats, is a vital daily habit for startups, especially those in the early stages Use their feedback to influence your next steps
Value Of Visibility And Recognition At RBC Awards
The RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards also emphasize the value of visibility and recognition as motivators for daily resilience Winners and finalists often report that the nomination and selection process prompted them to reflect on their accomplishments, define their metrics, and present their stories with greater confidence Being a member of this national community allows them to connect with peers, mentors, and possible partners, extending the impact of a single gala night throughout the year For every female entrepreneur, nominating herself or another founder for a national or local award can be a practical March action that leads to new networks and opportunities
Everyday Lessons For Impact and Visibility
Celebrating award-winning entrepreneurs on International Women's Day (March 8) is appropriate, but their teachings should be applied daily. March can be a month-long "action lab" for female founders, with one week dedicated to defining purpose, another to small-scale innovation experiments, another to strengthening customer interactions, and another to seeking visibility or mentorship possibilities By the end of the month, those everyday actions have led to greater clarity, stronger networks, and more robust business plans.
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Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes She & Success Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence
