After recently launching the Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneurship Program, Community Futures North Central Development spoke to Arctic Radio to elaborate on how it works.

 

Business Support Officer Michelle Pruder says training and resources are available both in-person and virtually, and include business workshops, one-on-one training, and support for women to provide the skills needed to plan, operate, and grow their business.

 

The program also has a micro-lending component, which Pruder explains here.

 

“This is where woman can access some capital so they can apply for funds as high as $20,000, a micro-loan, but it can be as low as $500. It doesn’t have to be big, but the great thing about it is that a portion of it is forgivable. When I say forgivable, in other words, it’s a grant. The amounts will vary, it depends on a variety of factors but that forgivable portion can range from five per cent all the way up to 45 per cent.”

 

Call 204-677-1490 for more information.