At NACCA, we believe that empowering Indigenous women means strengthening families, economies, and futures. Through the Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneur (IWE) Program, we create space for women to thrive and prosper through business.

Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund

Access to capital remains a significant barrier for many Indigenous women entrepreneurs seeking to start or grow their businesses. To help address this barrier, the Government of Canada allocated $55 million in Budget 2021 for the creation of a new national microloans fund, part of its Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES).

NACCA and participating IFIs are delivering the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund on behalf of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). Indigenous women entrepreneurs who meet the eligibility requirements will be able to apply for loans up to $50,000.

NACCA can connect you with the right IFI to help you access the fund and the financing you need to start or grow your business. Contact us at IWE@nacca.ca for more information on the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund and find out what IFI in your region is delivering the program.

Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (IWE)

Launched in March 2022, the IWE Program is delivered through over 30 Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) across Canada. It’s designed to support Indigenous women entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey—from idea to growth.

Since 2022, Indigenous Financial Institutions have delivered over 5,000 advisory services, training to nearly 5,000 participants, and approved over 600 loans valued at over $11.4 million.

For more information on the IWE Program, contact the IWE Team at IWE@nacca.ca.