The Alberta-based non-profit dedicated to women entrepreneurs
expands access to its flagship digital business development
courses across Canada.
March 6, 2024 (Edmonton, AB) – On the eve of International Women’s Day, Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) is pleased to announce the national expansion of two of its marquee courses, Bold Leadership and Strategic Edge, to women entrepreneurs from coast to coast to coast.
Designed to empower women entrepreneurs ready to engage with the next stage of entrepreneurial success, both the Bold Leadership and Strategic Edge programs have proven track records within Alberta, providing established entrepreneurs with the tools necessary to adapt to the digital landscape, grow their businesses, and expand to new markets.
"The potential of women entrepreneurs for spurring economic growth is incredible. Women-owned businesses contribute $150 billion to the Canadian economy and employ over 1.5 million people. Advancing women’s equality in Canada could add billions to the GDP.”
We should be proud that Canada is a world leader in women’s entrepreneurship. AWE is thrilled to be able to share our programs with women entrepreneurs across the country and make those resources available to women-led businesses outside of our province.”
While most women in corporate positions have access to professional development courses, woman entrepreneurs often find themselves in search of women-focused learning and connection opportunities. AWE provides top-tier business development courses, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs for a community of goal-oriented women within a flexible platform that allows them to work on the business while they’re working in the business.
Aimed at established businesses ready to invest in new digital tools, AWE’s Bold Leadership Program supports women entrepreneurs who want to rethink their businesses with a digital lens and implement technology to improve their business performance.
The AWE Strategic Edge: Leadership for Growth program supports established women entrepreneurs ready to shift to the next stage of entrepreneurial success to build a growth strategy that’s relevant to their business and the increasing complexities of a digital world. Most participating businesses post annual revenue of over $500,000 and are looking to move forward toward new opportunities for growth.
In addition to the two courses, AWE offers access to capital information and strategic financing services. To date, AWE has provided loans to women entrepreneurs amounting to more than $43 million.
The nationwide Bold Leadership and Strategic Edge courses are being delivered in partnership with the Reseau des Femmes d’affaires du Quebec, British Columbia’s We-BC, Manitoba’s Women’s Enterprise Centre, the NFLD & Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs, and the Ontario-based Paro Centre.
AWE’s program expansion has been made possible thanks to funding from the Government of Canada’s Women Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Fund. This is one of the main components of Canada’s first ever Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, which is helping thousands of women entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.
Registration for the programs is now open to women across Canada on the AWE website: www.awebusiness.com
- 30 -
About Alberta Women Entrepreneurs
Since 1995, Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) has provided tools and resources to women across the province to help them achieve their entrepreneurial goals and to grow their businesses. For over 28 years, AWE has built a network of successful educational and mentorship programs built around our core values: Capital, Connection, and Capacity.
Dedicated to inclusivity and diversity, AWE plays a pivotal role in supporting women entrepreneurs, integrating them into a broad network that celebrates their achievements. This commitment is highlighted at AWE's annual awards ceremony and reinforced by the organization's delivery of over 1,500 workshops annually. Representing more than just an organization, AWE embodies a diverse and experienced community that is deeply committed to guiding and elevating women entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.
