Harper Government Increases Opportunities for Canadian Women Entrepreneurs

TORONTO, Nov. 4, 2013 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, announced the Harper Government's support for a project that will increase economic opportunities for women in Canada. The announcement took place during the annual WeConnect Canada conference of women business leaders in Toronto.

"The number one priority of our Government is jobs, growth and long-term prosperity," said Minister Leitch. "That is why our Government is creating greater economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs in many sectors through projects like this one with WeConnect Canada. Projects like this will help our economy prosper."

WeConnect Canada is receiving $512,000 for a 30-month project entitled From Contacts to Contracts. The project's goal is to reduce the systemic barriers leading to the underrepresentation of women-led businesses in the supply chains of Canadian corporations by increasing corporate support of women-led businesses, and helping foster supplier diversity. This will include a mentorship program by corporations that support supplier diversity for women-led businesses.

"We are very pleased to partner with the Government of Canada for this project that will help more Canadian women succeed as entrepreneurs," said Mary Anderson, President of WeConnect Canada. "The more we can reduce barriers to business opportunities for women-led businesses, the better off Canada will be."

The Government of Canada continues to take measures that support Canadian women and Canada's economy. The 2013 Speech from the Throne outlined a number of initiatives that will benefit Canadian women including: an updated Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy; creation of jobs and opportunities in skilled trades; and, investments in the natural resource and forestry sectors where women continue to be particularly underrepresented at all levels, including in board positions. The new Canada-Europe Trade Agreement is also an historic opportunity for Canada to generate significant benefits, jobs and opportunities for all Canadians, including women.

The Harper Government is committed to supporting projects that yield concrete results for women and girls while strengthening families, communities and the country. Through Status of Women Canada, federal support for community-based projects has nearly doubled since 2006-2007, supporting more than 600 projects across Canada. Since 2007, more than $46 million has been approved through the Women's Program for projects that promote women's economic security and prosperity.

SOURCE: Status of Women Canada

For media inquiries only: 

Barbara Mottram
Director of Communications
Office of the Hon. Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, P.C.,
O. Ont., M.P.
Minister of Labour and Minister of
Status of Women
Tel: [phone]

For all other inquiries, contact: 

Nanci-Jean Waugh
Director General, Communications
and Public Affairs
Status of Women Canada
Tel: [phone]

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For news releases and information on Status of Women Canada, go to women.gc.ca.