The Role of Women Entrepreneurs
OTTAWA – Business – “Women entrepreneurs are critical to the growth and competitiveness of the Canadian economy. We all benefit when women’s businesses succeed, creating jobs and prosperity. That’s why this year’s International Women’s Week focuses on the valuable contributions of women entrepreneurs to the Canadian economy,” stated Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, the Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women.
Canadians will celebrate the economic contributions of women entrepreneurs during International Women’s Week 2014.
This year’s theme, “Strong Women, Strong Canada, Canadian Women” – Creating Jobs One Business at a Time, was announced today by the Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women.
International Women’s Week begins on March 2 and concludes on March 8 with International Women’s Day. Canadians are invited to join the Government of Canada in marking this occasion by organizing, promoting and participating in events across the country.
Quick Facts
- According to BMO Financial Group, women-owned businesses employ over 1.5 million Canadians.
- RBC Economics reports that as of 2011 the contribution of majority-owned women’s businesses was an estimated $148 billion.
- Women entrepreneurs remain under-represented, with only 15.6% of small and medium sized businesses owned by women in 2011.
- Since 2007, the Women’s Program at Status of Women Canada has provided more than $53 million for projects that specifically focus on improving women’s economic security and prosperity, including more than $9 million for projects which address women’s entrepreneurship.
- Canada began commemorating International Women’s Day on March 8 following a 1977 United Nations resolution calling on member states to proclaim a day for women’s rights and international peace.
More Information
- Information about International Women’s Week and International Women’s Day at iwd.gc.ca
- Information about Status of Women Canada at women.gc.ca
