22 Indigenous Women Named 2024 IWEF Recipients by CCIB
October 30, 2024, Toronto, ON- During Small Business Month, the spotlight is on Indigenous women in business, and the recipients of the 2024 Indigenous Women in Entrepreneurship Fund (IWEF) represent communities across the country, from Nova Scotia to British Columbia.
Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB) 2024 IWEF recipients are from diverse industries, including food and retail, consulting, housing design, and construction, showcasing the breadth of talent and innovation within Indigenous communities.
“The $2,500 from the Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund was like a gift from the Creator, giving my business the strength it needed to grow and helping me bring my vision to life,” said Donna Mathieson, founder and managing director of Raven Ozhigaa Development. “It provided the financial support I needed for marketing efforts to let me share my work with more people. This fund didn’t just provide money; it was about knowing that our community stands strong, lifting up Indigenous women and their dreams and that I have the strength in my ancestors guiding me on this journey.”
In its inception, IWEF was created to increase accessibility to financing for Indigenous women-owned businesses that have encountered challenges impacting their business.
“For the fifth consecutive year, we celebrate the resilience and innovation of Indigenous women entrepreneurs across Canada,” said Tabatha Bull, CCIB President and CEO. “Their determination to build their business and thrive in various sectors is a testament to their dedication and entrepreneurial spirit. A thank you to our sponsors—LNG Canada, Atkins Réalis, Paper Excellence, and Visa—for their support in strengthening the Indigenous economy.”
The fund, presented by LNG Canada with contributions from Atkins Réalis, Paper Excellence, and Visa, helps Indigenous women across the country invest in their businesses and achieve success.
“LNG Canada offers heartful congratulations and best wishes to this year’s 22 IWEF recipients,” said Hope Regimbald, LNG Canada Indigenous and Stakeholder Relations Lead. “We recognize the invaluable contributions Indigenous women continue to make to Canada’s business landscape. We’re honoured to partner with the CCIB, providing ongoing support to Indigenous women and their entrepreneurial activities.”
The fund is administered through CCIB’s Tools for Indigenous Business (TIB) program to enhance Indigenous entrepreneurship by providing education and access to resources and networks.
