New rural ambassador program to address gender entrepreneurship gap

Johnson said women face unique circumstances. In some cases, banks will not approve a loan but WESK will.

“When we’ve got a really great business concept we can take the risk. Your credit may not be where it needs to be. Women haven’t had the ability to build it like men have, so there are times like that, that we can take more risk,” she said. “They are getting no’s from banks and other financial outlets; they will largely receive a yes from WESK.”

Five regional ambassadors, who are business owners themselves and have a passion for entrepreneurship, will serve as connection points within rural communities to support women at every stage of their business-ownership journeys, according to Johnson.

“Why don’t we utilize these woman that have already done programs with us? They know the resources we can provide and support them in sharing our news. We thought creatively on how we can amplify our impact which was where our ambassador program was born,” she said

The regional ambassadors will also facilitate networking, mentorship, and promotional opportunities through local WESK Connect events, trade shows and ongoing efforts to showcase women-owned businesses in their communities.

The program is funded through Prairies Economic Development Canada to the tune of $450,000.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

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