WES Inclusive Women Venture Capital Initiative

In plain language

Non-repayable contribution to nonprofits building inclusive VC ecosystem infrastructure — not direct funding to women entrepreneurs (that's the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund). Projects must demonstrably increase women's access to VC capital, raise women's representation among VC partners, or reduce bias in capital allocation. Relevant for NL-based partners of Atlantic Women's Venture Fund or NLOWE if leading a multi-provincial initiative. Successful applicants announced periodically; check the ISED WES page for next call. Eligible entrepreneurs should instead look at Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund (delivered via WEOC, NACCA and partner FIs) for direct capital.

Who qualifies

What you'll have to report

Annual project reporting on VC participation metrics (women-partner placements, women-founder funding flows); financial reconciliation.