The Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan are joining forces to provide funding to support newcomer women entrepreneurs in the province. A total of $255,000 is being allocated to Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc. (WESK) for its newcomer training support program, with the goal of assisting 25 newcomer women in starting or expanding their businesses. One member of WESK, Ana Liza Carlos, owner of Little Patch of Heaven Daycare, shared her positive experience with the program, emphasizing the support and resources provided by WESK that were instrumental in helping her gain the confidence to run her business in Canada, despite the challenges of moving from the Philippines to a cold, English-speaking country.
Frances Meyer, program coordinator at the Women’s Business Hub, highlighted the potential impact of this funding on immigrant women in Saskatchewan, emphasizing the importance of providing guidance, mentorship, and possibly financing to support these women in starting their businesses. Meyer explained that many immigrant business owners are starting from scratch when they come to Canada, which makes access to support and resources even more crucial. This support is especially necessary for newcomer women who face unique challenges such as language barriers, discrimination, and difficulties in accessing services and support. By empowering newcomer female entrepreneurs, the government is creating pathways for success and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
Marci Ien, Federal Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, stressed the significance of increasing female participation in the labor force and ensuring equal opportunities for all as a top priority for the government. Laura Ross, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Office, emphasized the importance of supporting newcomers to reach their full potential and contribute to Saskatchewan’s growing economy. Ross noted that since 2007, female employment has increased by over 40,000 jobs in Saskatchewan, indicating the province’s growing population. WESK, which has been offering training programs since 2017, is dedicated to cultivating a more inclusive business landscape in the province through tailored programs and strategic partnerships with newcomer support organizations.
WESK CEO Miriam Johnson highlighted the investment made in supporting newcomer women entrepreneurs in Saskatchewan as a means of equipping them with the necessary skills, knowledge, financial support, and resources to succeed in their new home province and country. By providing tailored programs and partnering with newcomer support organizations, WESK aims to empower these women as they navigate the challenges of adjusting to a new environment and establishing their businesses. The overall goal of this initiative is to create a more diverse and inclusive business community in Saskatchewan by supporting and promoting the success of newcomer women entrepreneurs.
In conclusion, the collaboration between the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan in providing funding to support newcomer women entrepreneurs through WESK demonstrates a commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion, and economic growth in the province. By addressing the unique challenges faced by newcomer women in starting and expanding their businesses, this initiative aims to create pathways for success and enable these women to fully participate and succeed in society. Through targeted programs, mentorship, and financial support, newcomer women entrepreneurs in Saskatchewan are being equipped with the tools and resources necessary to thrive in their new home province and contribute to its growing economy.
