Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund

Overview of the Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund program:

The Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund (IWEF) 2025, administered by the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB), is a funding initiative designed to empower and support Indigenous women entrepreneurs across Canada. Recognising the unique challenges Indigenous women face in launching, sustaining, and scaling businesses, the IWEF provides up to $10,000 in microgrant funding per recipient. The programme is aimed at helping women-owned Indigenous businesses improve their operations, pivot their models, adopt technology, or invest in marketing, supplies, and workforce development. This initiative is part of a broader effort to close the systemic economic gaps faced by Indigenous women and promote inclusive economic participation. The programme is open to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis women entrepreneurs, regardless of industry. It is particularly suitable for those who may have limited access to traditional financing or who require a financial boost to stabilise or expand their businesses. The application process is designed to be accessible and transparent, and priority is given to applicants who demonstrate strong business potential, community impact, and a clear use of funds. Although funding is limited, the CCAB encourages all eligible entrepreneurs to apply early. Beyond the microgrant, the programme also connects participants to additional CCAB resources such as procurement networks, mentorship opportunities, and business capacity-building events.

Benefits of the Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund program:

• Access to up to $10,000 in microgrant funding
• Non-repayable support for Indigenous women-led businesses
• Eligible use of funds includes: equipment, digital tools, marketing, staff hiring, and pivoting operations
• Enhanced visibility and inclusion in CCABs national Indigenous business directory
• Potential opportunities to connect with mentors, procurement programmes, and corporate buyers
• Recognition and support from a respected national Indigenous business organisation
• Encouragement of business stability, growth, and long-term economic participation for Indigenous women

Eligibility criteria of the Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund program:

• To be eligible for the IWEF, applicants must:
• Identify as a woman and be of First Nations, Inuit, or Metis heritage
• Be a resident of Canada
• Own at least 51% of a for-profit business
• Have a business that is operational at the time of application (no pre-revenue startups)
• Use the funding for business purposes only, such as: equipment, marketing, payroll, technology, or adaptation to new markets
• Submit a complete application form, including documentation verifying Indigenous identity and business registration