Toronto – The full and equal participation of women in the economy is essential to Canada’s competitiveness and prosperity. Dismantling the systemic barriers that hold women entrepreneurs back from reaching their full potential leads to more economic independence, while helping to build more resilient communities.
Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth attended an event hosted by Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) in Toronto and announced $960,000 in funding for the organization to create a more inclusive and equitable digital economy.
The funding will support the project Changing the Narrative – Unleashing the Full Potential of Women-owned Enterprises, which aims to foster innovation, enhance workforce diversity, and tackle systemic barriers experienced by women entrepreneurs, with a focus on Black and official language minority communities.
Supporting equal opportunities for women in the workplace could add $150 billion to Canada’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2026. The Government of Canada will continue to collaborate with women’s organizations and experts to advance intersectional approaches and build an inclusive economy that works for everyone.
February is Black History Month in Canada. This month, and throughout the year, the Government of Canada prioritizes initiatives that combat systemic racism and advance economic opportunities for Black communities.
“Everyday women entrepreneurs are taking risks, bringing new ideas to life, and making contributions to our country. Yet they continue to receive less financing and opportunities than their male counterparts. Today’s investment in the Information and Communications Technology Council is about creating a more inclusive social entrepreneurial landscape, particularly for women from Black and official language minority communities.” – Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth