Scale Your Vision with the
Women Entrepreneurship Fund
The WEF isn't just "free money"—it's a strategic investment by the Government of Canada to double the number of women-owned businesses by 2026.This is the only direct federal grant that does not need to be repaid.
Is the WEF Right For You?
The Women Entrepreneurship Fund (WEF) is the "gold standard" of Canadian grants because unlike the BDC's loans or the futurpreneur program,WEF funding is 100% non-repayable. It is designed specifically for *existing* businesses that are ready to pivot or scale, not for brand new startups with just an idea.
Quick Eligibility Check
Are you 51% or more woman-owned?
The business must be majority owned and controlled by women.
Have you been in business for 2+ years?
WEF rarely funds Day 0 startups. They want to see tax returns.
Do you have an "Innovation" or "Export" plan?
You must use the funds to enter a new market or build new IP.
Note: If you answered "No" to the 2-year question, consider the Futurpreneur program instead.
Where the Money Actually Goes
We analyzed the last round of 300+ successful applicants. The funding wasn't random; it heavily favoured three specific activities. If your application focuses on one of these "Winning Pillars", your chances of approval jump significantly.
Projects focused on exporting Canadian goods to the US, EU, or Asia.
Investing in automation, AI, or custom software to improve efficiency.
Bonus points for underrepresented regions or demographics.
Application Hack: The 'Global Scale' Narrative
Don't just ask for money to buy a new laptop. Frame your request as "Global Competitiveness."Instead of "We need a CRM," write "Implementing a CRM to manage our expansion into the US East Coast market." Same software, but one aligns with the government's export goals, and the other sounds like overhead.Government funds growth, not overhead.
Why Applications Get Rejected (The "Big 3")
1. Lack of Market Validation
Saying "people will love this" isn't enough. You need Letters of Intent (LOIs) or pre-orders.
2. Vague Budgeting
"Marketing: $10,000" is an instant rejection. It must be "Google Ads Q1: $3,500, Agency Retainer: $6,500."
3. Missing the "Innovation" Angle
If you are just opening a standard franchise or retail shop with no new tech or process, you likely won't qualify for WEF.
WEF 2026 Deadlines
Need a WEF Writer?
Our grant writers specialize in the "Innovation" narrative required for WEF approval.
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