A grant is non-repayable funding provided by a government, institution, or organization to support specific business activities. Grants typically come with eligibility criteria, reporting requirements, and timelines, but you do not pay the funds back.

A loan is repayable financing you receive for your business. You repay the amount over time, with interest. Loans are ideal when you need capital to start, stabilize, or grow your operations.

Yes. AWE offers repayable loans of up to $150,000 (and more in partnership with lenders) for women-owned businesses in Alberta.

AWE does not administer grants directly. However, we may offer grants attached to successful completion of certain programs and we can help point you toward provincial and federal grant programs that may support your business.

Collateral is an asset you pledge as security for a loan. It reduces risk for the lender. Examples include equipment, inventory, vehicles, or other business assets.

Equity is the money you personally invest into your business. Most lenders, including AWE, want to see that the owner has “skin in the game.” This could include cash, assets, or reinvested profits.

Your credit score reflects how reliably you pay back borrowed money.
You can check your score through services like:

• Equifax

• TransUnion

• Borrowell

• Credit Karma

• Many banks have this in online apps

Lenders review your score as one part of your financial picture.

AWE provides workshops, webinars, business advising, learning labs, online resources, and connections to our broader community of women entrepreneurs. We also offer tools and templates to help you build strong financials and business plans.

Prime is the base borrowing rate set by major banks. AWE’s loans are offered at Prime + 2% to Prime + 4%, depending on your application.

Compound interest means interest is calculated on both your loan amount and previously accumulated interest. It affects long-term loan costs, and understanding it can help you choose repayment timelines that work for you.

• A loan is released as a lump sum with a set repayment schedule.

• A line of credit allows you to borrow only what you need, when you need it, and repay it flexibly. 

A loan is best for larger, planned investments; a line of credit is best for short-term or fluctuating cash needs.

Alberta-based businesses that are 50.1% women-owned, majority-managed by women, and able to demonstrate a viable business plan and financial readiness.

• Start-up costs

• Equipment or technology

• Marketing and business development

• Leasehold improvements

• Inventory and production

• Working capital

• Expansion projects

Yes. AWE charges a $0.5% loan administration fee once you reach the full application stage.

A credit check is part of the loan assessment process. This creates a standard inquiry on your credit file, similar to any loan application.

You can always reapply. If you’re not ready yet, AWE will provide guidance and resources to help you strengthen your financial readiness and position your business for success in the future.

In many cases, yes—early repayment is allowed without penalty. For programs where terms may differ, we’ll walk you through the details and help you choose a loan that aligns with your goals and timeline.

No. AWE works with incorporated businesses, partnerships, and sole proprietors. You just need to be operating legally and registered in Alberta.

Yes, if you can provide strong, realistic projections, a clear business plan, and demonstrate financial and market readiness.

Not typically, but depending on your credit history and financial structure, additional security may be requested.