The landscape of women’s entrepreneurship in Canada is seeing broader societal shifts through the efforts of women entrepreneurs. The recently released 2024 State of Women’s Entrepreneurship in Canada Report by the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) offers an overview of this landscape. It highlights both the steps made and the challenges that persist for women in business. In this context, platforms like Reboot Plus are important resources to help young women succeed in their entrepreneurial journeys.
Key Findings from the 2024 Report
The 2024 report reveals several important insights into the state of women’s entrepreneurship in Canada:
- Growth in Female Entrepreneurship: The number of women-owned businesses in Canada continues to grow, with more of women launching their own ventures.
- Challenges Remain: Despite this growth, women entrepreneurs still face challenges, including access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities
- Impact of Technology: Technology and digital tools play an important role in levelling the playing field with women using them to innovate and expand their businesses.
- Diverse Needs: The report also highlights the diverse needs of women entrepreneurs, including those from underrepresented communities. Tailored support is needed to address these challenges.
How Reboot Plus Can Make a Difference
Programs like Reboot Plus work to address the specific needs of young women entrepreneurs.
Mentorship and Guidance: Reboot Plus offers mentorship by connecting young women with experienced industry experts. Through informational interviews, they learn of the complexities of starting and growing a business.
Access to Resources: The program provides access to a wealth of resources, including educational materials, workshops, and webinars. These resources help young women acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to see if entrepreneurship is a right fit.
Funding Support: Reboot Plus is funded through the Future Skills Centre to ensure all young women have access to educational and career development opportunities. Throughout the program, young women learn of ways to navigate other sources of funding to help them reach their goals.
The 2024 State of Women’s Entrepreneurship in Canada Report illustrates the gains and the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Canada. Programs like Reboot Plus support young women by providing resources, networking opportunities, funding support, and career guidance. Using these resources, young women can overcome barriers, harness their full potential, and contribute to a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Canada.
With funding from the Government of Canada’s Future Skills Centre, we are examining whether a hope-centred education and career development program can help youth find their purpose.
Le projet Reboot Plus est financé par le Centre des Compétences futures du gouvernement du Canada