MP Chahal announces two projects to build capacity of women entrepreneurs and investors in Alberta

Calgary:  Canada’s economy will only reach its full potential when everyone has the opportunity to contribute. An inclusive economy means ensuring women entrepreneurs have the tools and resources needed to succeed. That is why the Government of Canada is partnering with organizations that are providing leadership and training to enable the full and equal participation of women in Alberta’s economy.

Today George Chahal, Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview, on behalf of the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan, announced a federal investment of $861,980 for two Calgary-based initiatives focused on growing small businesses through targeted supports for women entrepreneurs and investors.

The Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association is receiving $375,630 to launch a new business incubator program for immigrant women in Alberta to build entrepreneurial knowledge and skills, create business plans and access start-up financing. This investment is expected to help train over 60 immigrant women while assisting in the growth of more than 20 small businesses.
Movement51 is receiving $486,350 to deliver financial literacy workshops and coaching to women investors across the Prairies. The initiative aims to equip women with the capacity, confidence and networks to become active early-stage investors. More than 550 women across the Prairies are expected to benefit from this training.
These organizations provide leadership and expertise which support inclusive economic growth in communities across Alberta. With PrairiesCan investment, they will increase the rate of women-owned and women-led businesses across the Prairies.

In total, the initiatives are expected to directly assist more than 600 women entrepreneurs and investors to play a leading role in advancing economic growth and innovation in Alberta and across the Prairies.