What is the Immigrant Women Entrepreneurship Program (IWEP)
The Immigrant Women Entrepreneurship Program (IWEP) is designed to support visible minority and recent (within the last 10 years) immigrant women who want to start a business or expand their existing business. IWEP offers one-on-one business coaching, group-based workshops, networking events, training activities, and mentoring.
The program is delivered by S.U.C.C.E.S.S., one of the largest social service agencies in Canada. S.U.C.C.E.S.S. receives funding from the three levels of government in Canada, community foundations, donations, sponsorships, membership dues, and user fees in cost-recovery programs. IWEP in particular is supported by Western Economic Diversification Canada.
A Little More About S.U.C.C.E.S.S.
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. was founded in 1973 by a group of immigrant volunteers who wanted to advocate for an inclusive yet diverse community that promotes the well-being of Canadians and supports the integration of newcomers into Canada.
Vision
A vibrant Canadian society where people thrive and contribute to inclusive communities
Mission
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. empowers people on their Canadian journey to achieve their goals through services and advocacy that promote belonging, wellness, and independence.
Introducing S.U.C.C.E.S.S.'s CEO Queenie Choo - on how S.U.C.C.E.S.S. programs and services reflect our vision and mission statement.
Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES) Ecosystem Fund and Birth of IWEP
The Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES) - announced in Budget 2018 - is an incentive implemented by the Government of Canada as a commitment to advance gender equality and empower women in the economy. Specifically, to close gaps in services for women entrepreneurs and to ensure women have access to the supports they need to establish or expand their business.
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. has successfully received funding from WES Ecosystem Fund through the Regional Stream to develop IWEP to support visible minority and recent immigrant women.
COVID-19 Update
In addition to the $85 million allocated to fund non-profit organizations in developing programs to support women entrepreneurs, the Government of Canada provided an extra $15 million to the WES Ecosystem Fund to alleviate the hardship faced by women entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 pandemic.