Eligibility:

How do I qualify?

To be eligible applicants must:

* Be a 50.1% women-owned and led business

* Business is registered and located in the province of Alberta

* Have a minimum credit score of 650

* Contribute a minimum or have contributed a minimum of 25% owner equity on total project costs

* Contribute a minimum of 30% security on the loan. This amount differs depending on the size, risk, and purpose of the loan.

Loans can be used for business expansion projects, and business purchases. Loans can be used for a variety of expenses, including:

* Leasehold improvements

* Equipment purchases

* Operating capital

* Advertising and marketing costs

* Purchase of inventory

Loans cannot be used for:

* Owner’s salary

* Existing debt

* Franchise fees

* Speculative ventures (e.g. Purchase of land for resale)

* Intangible goodwill (i.e. business name or reputation)

* Research and development

* Purchase of stocks, shares, or other non-productive investment

AWE offers monthly Loan Info Session Webinars where we walk through:

* What is the AWE Loan Program

* Basic eligibility to apply

* What kind of businesses can apply for an AWE loan

* What expenses AWE can and cannot finance

* How AWE’s loan program differs from other lenders

* Application process

Have questions? Your question may be answered in our FAQ page or feel free to contact us and we'd be happy to provide more information.