“My business would not have survived without them. What they do is critical. They have done so much for women in business. That kind of support is so important." Janet Féirín, Arán Foods Inc. (read Janet's story)

Start, Grow and Succeed with Women's Enterprise Centre

We've served over 80,000 BC women since 1995!

Welcome to Women's Enterprise Centre. We were established in 1995 by Western Economic Diversification Canada, to assist women in starting and growing businesses in British Columbia. We've grown to become the leading business resource centre in our province for women starting, purchasing or growing a small business. We provide essential business services and resources, as well as referrals to many other business service providers throughout the province.

Our team understands and relates to the unique circumstances of women business owners. Our experienced business advisors, trainers and facilitators provide our clients with tools and confidence through a supportive, individual and practical approach.

Practical Skills Development: We provide 'real-world' training and workshops in a number of essential subject areas required to run a strong and successful business, and in a variety of formats to suit busy entrepreneurs. Our do-it-yourself training is a handy way to learn tips for your small business.

Empowerment Lending: Our unique business financing combines loans up to $150,000 for new and existing businesses with ongoing business advice. This approach is designed to build business capacity and maximize resources.

Professional Guidance: We offer advice for business challenges and growth strategies, as well as marketing and financial issues. We also have a number of tools to assist in the development of a business plan and will assess your plan for financing.

Networking Connections: We connect women to other providers of business services throughout the province, and to networking and peer learning opportunities.

Resource Library: We feature an information-packed on-line resource library on our website at www.womensenterprise.ca along with resource guides to start or grow a business.

Events and Workshops: We host a number of inspirational events each year for women who want to start or grow a business. These often feature guest women entrepreneurs relating their stories and lessons. You'll also see us at trade shows and business events around the province.

Making a Difference

In 1994, Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) undertook research which identified gaps in access to financing and services for women entrepreneurs. To fill these gaps, WD committed $38.5 million to create Women's Enterprise Initiatives in the four western provinces.

Each Women's Enterprise Initiative administers a $5 million loan fund for women entrepreneurs unable to obtain traditional financing. These organizations provide complimentary business counselling, resource information and referrals, business-to-business linking and a variety of innovative training programs.

We look forward to working together with you on your small business endeavours! Please contact us to learn more at 1.800.643.7014, or by e-mail at info@womensenterprise.ca.