AWE30:
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF WOMEN IN BUSINESS

To mark our 30th anniversary, we’re amplifying success stories of real women in business nominated and shared by the Alberta Women Entrepreneurs community.

Because success doesn’t look one way, it never has.

Women entrepreneurs have built businesses through economic shifts, personal transitions, industry change, and moments of uncertainty. Some have scaled quickly. Others have grown steadily. Many have pivoted, rebuilt, or redefined success entirely.

Every path counts.

Welcome to AWE30. A curated collection of 30 lived stories celebrating the many ways women define success in entrepreneurship.

women clapping during AWE 30 year celebration event

Be Part of What Comes Next

For 30 years, AWE has been built by women who show up for each other through growth, challenge, and change.

If these stories resonate, you belong here.

Join the AWE community to stay connected, explore programs and events, and be part of what’s next for women entrepreneurs across Alberta.

ALBERTA WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS RECOGNITION AND AWARDS

For over 30 years, Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) has celebrated the leadership, impact, and resilience of women entrepreneurs across Alberta.

Our annual awards have been one way we’ve recognized the many forms success can take; from bold growth and innovation to community leadership and long-term sustainability!

AWE Awards: A History of Celebrating Women in Business

Each year, AWE has honoured women entrepreneurs who demonstrate:

Leadership and vision

Business growth and resilience

Innovation and adaptability

Community impact and mentorship

These awards have reflected AWE’s belief that success looks different for every entrepreneur and that recognition matters.

two women celebrating with high five during AWE awards

Past AWE Award Recipients

Over the years, hundreds of women have been recognized through AWE awards programs. Their stories represent the strength, diversity, and creativity of women-owned businesses across Alberta.

Celebration of Achievement Award

Honouring an exceptional woman entrepreneur whose leadership, vision, and determination have driven meaningful success.

This award recognizes a woman who has built a business in Alberta that creates real economic and community impact. Someone whose journey serves as inspiration for others building their own path in business.

Portrait of Shashi Bell past Celebration of Achievement Award winner

Upsurge Entrepreneur Award

Recognizing a woman entrepreneur who has built a strong foundation and is moving into a phase of accelerated growth.

This award honours a business leader who is expanding with intention! She is strengthening her leadership capacity, opening new markets, and creating momentum for the future. Through clear vision and drive, she has fostered a business supported by loyal customers, an engaged team, and a strong sense of shared purpose.

portrait of Melanie Harris past Upsurge Entrepreneur Award winner

Emerging Entrepreneur Award

Recognizing a woman entrepreneur who is early in her business journey and already demonstrating strong market potential.

This award honours a founder who has built a solid, scalable foundation and achieved early success. These businesses show clear momentum and the capacity for sustained growth.

Portrait of Pritma Dhillon-Chattha past winner fo the Emerging Entrepeneur Award

Indigenous Entrepreneur Award

Recognizing an Indigenous woman entrepreneur whose leadership, vision, and business contribute to lasting economic and community impact.

This award honours a founder with a strong business concept and a clear vision for future growth, long-term sustainability, and meaningful engagement with her community.

Mercedes Lundberg past winner of the indigenous Entrepeneur Award

Be Part of the AWE Community

Whether you’re an award recipient, a future nominee, or just beginning your entrepreneurial journey, AWE is here to support you through programs, learning, and financing.

Explore how AWE supports women entrepreneurs at every stage and how your story fits into our growing legacy.