For many women entrepreneurs in Canada, turning a brilliant idea into a thriving business often hinges on one critical factor: funding.

While the entrepreneurial landscape has evolved, women still face unique barriers to accessing capital — from systemic bias to limited access to networks that facilitate funding. Fortunately, 2025 brings with it a wealth of government-backed grants, private sector programs, and low-interest loan opportunities designed specifically for women-led startups and small businesses.

In this guide, we’ve done the legwork for you. Whether you’re starting from scratch, scaling your operations, or investing in innovation, here are the 10 best funding options for Canadian women entrepreneurs in 2025 — carefully selected based on impact, accessibility, and alignment with today’s business realities.

1. Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund (ISED)

Funding Type: Micro-loans up to $50,000

Best For: Women launching or growing a business

Who’s Behind It: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

This national fund is specifically designed to support women-owned businesses looking to scale. Loans are delivered through not-for-profit organizations such as WEOC, Coralus, Evol, and NACCA.

Why it stands out: It’s accessible across all provinces and includes mentorship support through partner organizations.

2. DELIA Microloan Program

Funding Type: Up to $15,000

Best For: Early-stage women entrepreneurs

Who’s Behind It: NCFDC (FedDev Ontario-funded)

This Canada-wide microloan offers low-interest funding with a quick online application process. Open to Canadian women over 18 who operate a business that is at least 50% women-owned.

Pro tip: Ideal for side hustlers or those testing a business model before full-scale launch.

3. WeBC Business Loans (British Columbia)

Funding Type: Up to $150,000

Best For: Growth-stage women entrepreneurs in B.C.

This long-standing program helps women scale through flexible loans and tailored support. It includes 5-year term loans, mentorship, and business skills development.

Bonus: Specialized tracks for Indigenous women, newcomers, and young founders.

4. Amber Grant for Women (Canada/U.S.)

Funding Type: $10,000 monthly + $25,000 annual award

Who’s Behind It: WomensNet

While U.S.-based, Canadian women entrepreneurs are eligible. One applicant is chosen monthly and considered for an additional year-end award.

Heads up: There’s a $15 USD application fee — but the payoff could be big.

5. WESK Loans (Saskatchewan)

Funding Type: Up to $150,000

Best For: Women-led businesses in Saskatchewan

Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan (WESK) offers both loans and wraparound services like business advising and financial planning. A strong option for regional entrepreneurs.

6. Evol Business Loans (Quebec)

Funding Type: $20,000–$50,000

Best For: Impact-driven, sustainable businesses

Evol targets women entrepreneurs in Quebec whose businesses align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Loans come with coaching and support tailored to mission-focused ventures.

7. Cartier Women’s Initiative

Funding Type: $30,000–$100,000 USD in grants

Scope: Global, includes North American region

This prestigious award supports women-led businesses with innovative, high-impact solutions. It’s highly competitive — but if accepted, you’ll gain access to global exposure and a powerful network.

8. Women in Trade – Export Development Canada

Funding Type: Financial tools + investment access

Best For: Businesses looking to expand internationally

EDC offers tailored services for women-owned businesses exploring global markets. From working capital solutions to equity investments via the Inclusive Trade Investments Program.

9. Starter Company Plus (Ontario)

Funding Type: Up to $5,000

Best For: First-time entrepreneurs in Ontario

Funded by the provincial government, this grant helps you launch or grow a business in Ontario. Includes training and business plan development as part of the application process.

10. Zensurance Small Business Grant

Funding Type: $10,000 grand prize + $1,000 for runners-up

Best For: Any small business, open to women founders

While not women-exclusive, this private grant awards funding to Canadian entrepreneurs annually. It’s simple to apply — and past winners include arts academies and solo startups.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Funded

Grant and loan opportunities can be competitive. Here’s how to stand out:

• Develop a polished business plan Funders want to see strategic thinking and sustainable growth potential.
• Get your paperwork ready early This includes financial statements, registration documents, and permits.
• Apply early Many programs operate on a rolling or first-come-first-served basis.
• Follow up Demonstrating commitment and professionalism goes a long way.
• Combine funding options You may be eligible for multiple programs — use grants for launch and loans for growth.

Why Vitality Cash is the Perfect Funding Companion

Even with the best funding, mismanaging cash flow is one of the biggest reasons small businesses fail — especially in the critical early years. That’s where Vitality Cash becomes your secret weapon.

Vitality Cash isn’t just a tool — it’s your AI-powered financial partner designed to:

• Track every grant, loan, and funding cycle you apply for
• Forecast your cash flow with real-time precision
• Manage multiple funding sources with ease
• Help you stay compliant with repayment and reporting obligations
• Identify funding gaps and alert you to new opportunities

Where banks stop and grant portals end, Vitality Cash starts — ensuring your business doesn’t just survive, but thrives.

Ready to fuel your next chapter?

Let funding be your launchpad — not a roadblock. With these 10 powerful funding options and Vitality Cash by your side, 2025 could be the year your business takes off.