Indigenous Women Entrepreneur (IWE) Program

Indigenous Women Entrepreneur (IWE) Program is sponsored by Alberta Indian Investment Corporation (delivered by Indigenous Financial Institutions). This national initiative supports Indigenous women in launching, growing, and sustaining successful businesses. Given the user is a woman-led Indigenous ranch, this program could provide valuable financial assistance and support.

Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs: Funding Your Dreams - Alberta Indian Investment Corporation Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs Indigenous women are valuable investments. Indigenous women are, and always have been at the very heart of our communities. Since time immemorial, Indigenous women tended the hearth and home, collaborated on community building, and participated in decision-making and trade agreements - Shannin Metatawabin, ICD.

D – Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NACCA Flexible micro-loans to start or grow your business, with terms designed for accessibility and success. Personalized guidance from our Business Services Ofiicer—from idea to application to aftercare. Workshops and practical tools in business planning, cash‑flow, marketing, and more.

Establish your credit history through small business loans and guided support. Fueling the Growth of Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs The Indigenous Women Entrepreneur (IWE) Program is a national initiative developed by NACCA and delivered by Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) , including the Alberta Indian Investment Corporation (AIIC).

It is designed to support Indigenous women in launching, growing, and sustaining successful businesses. Vision for Indigenous Women We are secure, resilient Indigenous women • thriving in businesses that reflect our culture • meeting our family needs, and 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. A Launchpad for Indigenous Entrepreneurs The IWE Program is more than just access to funding — it’s a launchpad designed to reduce the barriers that often stand between Indigenous women and their dreams of owning a business. Starting a business can be overwhelming, especially when navigating financial systems for the first time.

The IWE Program was built to simplify that first step. From a streamlined application process to one-on-one support, the program is intentionally designed to make entrepreneurship more accessible, achievable, and sustainable for Indigenous women across Alberta. 1.

Connect with AIIC – Book a call or email to discuss your idea and fit for IWE. 2. Prepare your package – Simplified Business Plan, 1‑year cash‑flow, & completed application.

3. Submit your application – We’ll guide you through forms and supporting documents. 4.

Review & decision – We’ll assess financing, structure terms, and outline next steps.

To qualify for the IWE Program, applicants must: Be Status First Nation woman who has resided in Alberta for at least one year Own 51% or more of the business Be actively involved in day-to-day business operations Have credit in good standing, no outstanding collections Submit a simplified business plan and 1-year cash flow forecast Eligible applicants may access up to $25,000 in micro-loans of combined financing and grant support.

Loan Financing : Minimum 50% Non-repayable Contribution (Grant) : Up to 45% (based on needs) Equity Requirement : 0–10% (cash or in-kind) Loan Term : Up to 60 months (5 years) By 2025, the number of Indigenous women accessing financing through the IFI network will increase by 50%.

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. The Indigenous economy now contributes more than $56 billion annually to Canada's GDP and continues to grow in strength Ready to take the first step in your business journey?

Click here to download the Indigenous Women Entrepreneur (IWE) Program application form and information package, Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow, we're here to support you every step of the way. 1 year cash-flow template What program or service are you interested in?

please check all that apply Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurs (IYE) Program Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs (IWE) Program Status Entrepreneur Assistance Program (SEAP) Winfire Business Services AIIC Term Loans Other Subject select an option Select An Option Learn about eligibility Schedule a call with AIIC Get general program information I’m just starting—exploring financing options Apply for funding: Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur (IYE) Apply for funding: Indigenous Women Entrepreneur (IWE) Apply for funding: Status Entrepreneur Assistance (SEAP) Apply for funding: AIIC Term Loan Check my application status Book a workshop/presentation for my community Partnership or sponsorship inquiry Media or speaking request Technical issue with the form/website Other question Message please provide a brief message (mandatory) 0 / keyboard_arrow_left Previous FormCraft - WordPress form builder Business Services Officer - IWE Alberta Indian Investment Corporation