WeBC
WeBC is a not-for-profit organization that has supported women business owners across BC for nearly three decades. Offering business loans and expertise, accessible training and resources, plus regionally-based mentors, we provide sustained support that women can access at every step in their business journey. Our holistic approach means we get to know the woman behind the business so we can connect her with networks, capital and resources to help her business grow and thrive.
Partnership with the Maïa project
"We believe that women entrepreneurs have access to a greater depth and breadth of programs when women's support organizations collaborate. We're dedicated to helping women grow strong businesses, and the MAIA project helps women-owned businesses do that by accessing procurement opportunities and connecting with one another for networking and skills development. " — WeBC
WeBC Mission
As BC’s leading business resource organization for women, our passion is to support women entrepreneurs along their small business journey.
We exist to empower women entrepreneurs to make an impact in their communities and create opportunities in BC’s economy.
WeBC History
In 1994, Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan), which was then known as Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD), identified critical gaps in access to financing and services for women entrepreneurs. To fill these gaps, they committed funds to create Women’s Enterprise Initiatives (WEIs) in the four western provinces.
The Women’s Enterprise Initiative includes WeBC, Alberta Women Entrepreneurs, Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan, and the Women’s Enterprise Centre of Manitoba.
In 2007, we added mentorship to our key programs.
Programs and support
Training Programs
We offer in-person, virtual, and on-demand training for women at all stages of business.
ON-DEMAND TRAINING
WeBC offers SMART Programs to help women entrepreneurs across Canada develop their business skills.
With our SMART Programs, you can expand your knowledge on topics like HR, Financial Fitness, and Strategic Marketing through self-paced learning, plus gain wrap-around support through advisory services and resiliency training.
Our new On-Demand Learning Platform is designed to help you understand key concepts, work through interactive case studies, and complete activities that apply the learning to your own business.
LIVE TRAINING
- WeCafés – Informal virtual sessions featuring experts from our volunteer network, on topics suggested by our Business Advisors based on the needs they hear from clients. Always free and open to everyone.
- Fireside Chats – Free, virtual sessions that explore different aspects of scaling a business by sharing the growth journeys, knowledge, and experiences of BC women.
- Workshops – Live or virtual sessions on essential business topics, such as leadership, exporting, business planning, and more.
Financing Options
We see your potential
We offer business loans for women-owned businesses in BC. Whether you’re just starting out, purchasing a business or growing your business, we lend based on the viability of your plan and the strength of your vision, so you may qualify with us even if you haven’t with other lenders.
Our loans are different from those of traditional lenders because they’re bundled with complimentary, ongoing, professional business advice, business skills training and access to mentors so you feel supported throughout your loan and beyond.
Our financing options include:
- Core Loan – secured loan up to $150k
- Equal Access to Capital Loan – unsecured loan up to $50k
- Access to the WEOC National Loan Program – up to $50k unsecured for women and non-binary entrepreneurs, in partnership with WEOC
- Youth Loan – unsecured loan up to $70k for youth under 39, in partnership with Futurpreneur
- Access to the Unity Women Entrepreneurs Program - loan up to $100k or line of credit up to $20k from Vancity, with wrap-around support from WeBC
Contactez WeBC
Head Office:
201-1726 Dolphin Ave
Kelowna, BC
V1Y 9R9
Client Services:
Email: hello@we-bc.ca
Phone: 1.800.643.7014
Website:
we-bc.ca