IMPACT report
2020-23
centreforwomeninbusiness.ca 1
Over the last three years, the Centre for Women in Business has forever changed the women’s entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nova Scotia and beyond. The CWB has done this by launching a record number of pioneering programs designed to help women of all backgrounds on their unique business journeys. Together, we are not only making a significant impact on the Canadian economy, we are making history.
You belong here No matter where you are on your journey.
The CWB acknowledges that we are in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people. This territory is covered by the Treaties of Peace and Friendship, which Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) people first signed with the British Crown in 1725. The treaties did not deal with the surrender of lands and resources but in fact recognized Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) title and established the rules for what was to be an ongoing relationship.
This impact report covers CWB operations from our fiscal years between January 2020 – March 2023.
About The Centre for Women in Business is dedicated to helping women business owners and entrepreneurs across Canada succeed through exposure, connection, and learning. From one-on-one business advice and skills training, to networking and membership programs, we help our clients launch new business ideas, propel established companies to new levels of success, and thrive as owners, CEOs and industry leaders. We exist to help women business owners in all phases of their business development.
Vision Our vision is to see women-owned businesses have equal participation in the entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Mission We’re on a mission to ensure every woman entrepreneur in Canada has the access, resources, and support she needs to build the business of her dreams.
Values Community: We are a welcoming community of women in business. Innovation: We seek and encourage new ways to create, grow, and adapt. Impact: We are committed to business and economic success.
“The Centre [CWB] has always been on the leading edge. They always helped me stay in touch with whatever was coming up.” – Faith Drinnan, owner of Sisterhood Fibres.
MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
In 2019, the CWB team put together a three-year
strategic plan. We did a membership and training survey. We launched our core projects and had our direction. Then COVID-19 hit. The CWB was able to continue serving women business owners during that uncertain time because we were well prepared to work remotely - and because CWB team members went above and beyond to deliver services to our clients. Between mid-March and June 2020 we did 1,000 business advisories, and our previously monthly online Coffee Talks became crucial weekly connection points for women who needed to share and learn during a time of deep isolation. Our trade mission also successfully went virtual, along with the rest of our varied programming. We joined the broader entrepreneurial community on calls several times a week to advocate for women, working with all levels of government and other associations to identify challenges and support women business owners. Like so many of our clients, it has been a period of tremendous hardship but also incredible growth. We now have increased access to national research and international markets, and we are using digital spaces to build community and connect with opportunities.
In 2022, we celebrated our 30th anniversary. It was a great opportunity to reflect on where we’ve been, commemorate our achievements, and look to the future. We marked it with a new vision for the organization, the publication of The CWB Way book, and hosted an inspiring, in-person event. We always strive to be innovative and inclusive, and these times have demanded it. The CWB implemented six new pilot programs to bridge existing gaps and show women that no matter their background or where they are on their journeys, they belong here. Going forward we will maintain this momentum. We will continue to innovate, collaborate, and grow. We will continually scan for new trends, new technologies, and new opportunities for women business owners, and seize them. And, of course, we will keep offering the support and strategies our clients have come to expect from the CWB.
Sincerely,
Tanya Priske
The CWB Way As part of our 30th anniversary celebrations, the CWB created a book called The CWB Way – Transforming Women’s Entrepreneurial Experiences. It’s about where we have been, who we have served, and what lies ahead. Its intention is to share what we have learned these past three decades, to act as a guide for other organizations with similar missions, and to profile a small sampling of the incredible diversity of women the CWB has had the privilege to serve. At the core of the book is a detailed look into our pioneering methodology - The CWB Way - which focuses on the five elements women-identifying entrepreneurs need to succeed. They are:
1.
Women-Centered Learning
Women need the right information, programs, and support at just the right time on their business journeys.
2.
Dedicated Centres for Women in Business
It’s important to have one driving force in a region that is the centre of excellence in women’s entrepreneurship.
3.
All-In Partnerships
For women to achieve their greatest business dreams, we as a Centre have to nurture the whole entrepreneurial ecosystem - not just the individual woman.
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4.
Research, Results and Accountability
Research drives opportunity. It’s as simple as that.
5.
Advocacy and Outreach
An effective centre for women in business champions women in the halls of power and out in the community.
Our clients “I have an idea!”
“I have been in business for up to 3 years with a maximum revenue of 30K”
“I am content where I am in my business and interested in supports for maintaining my current business size and revenues.”
“My business is over 1 year and I am ready to take it to the next level! My revenue is 100k and up.”
I have an annual revenue of $1m and looking to continue my growth!
PRE-START-UP
START-UP
SUSTAINING
GROWING
HIGH-GROWTH
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MEMBERSHIP – Page 18 BUSINESS ADVISORIES COFFEE TALK
– Page 15
– Page 12 – Page 10
BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS PROGRAM
AMMP – Advanced Management & Mentoring Program
– Page 20
GREATER HEIGHTS OF GROWTH GROW NOW FOR TECH FOUNDERS
– Page 22
– Page 32
SUPPLIER DIVERSITY TRADE MISSIONS
– Page 11
– Page 37
CONSULTING ADVISORY SERVICES
– Page 25
SPICE – Specialized Program in Cooking Entrepreneurship – Page 15 VIRTUAL POWER LUNCH
– Page 13
CERTIFICATE TRAINING PROGRAMS
– Page 14
START-UP
SUSTAINING
GROWING
HIGH-GROWTH
Spectrum of Services
PRE-START-UP
MSVU Student Programs THE RBC ALLIANCE OF YOUNG WOMEN
– Page 38
– Page 38
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Our Impact The CWB is making a clear impact on women business owners and the entrepreneurial ecosystem as a whole. We have piloted half a dozen new programs, set ambitious goals, and are hitting our targets. We continue to innovate and find new ways to support our clients.
IMPACT overview January 2020 to March 2023
8,540 148 Women served through our programs
5
Business Growth Masterminds
72
Blueprint for Success Participants 8
RBC Alliance of Young Women Entrepreneurs
9
Power Lunches
5,023 Business Advisories
144 3
6
Coffee Talks
Cohorts of Advanced Management and Mentoring
4 34 Greater Heights of Growth Participants
9
New Pilot Projects
15
Community Presentations
Trade Missions
1
The CWB Way book published
Core Programs Blueprint for Success (TM) Our eight-week, virtual program supports women from starting their business through to creating or updating their business plan. Participants develop ideas, do market research, and learn about financial planning, marketing and operations. During the program, participants meet a group of like-minded women who are at the same business stage, receive 1:1 support from the CWB’s business advisor facilitators, and are held accountable every week by facilitators and peer group members.
“I got a lot of value from the discussions on each topic, being able to ask questions in real time, and sharing knowledge. It helped me to structure and consider all aspects of my business idea, set deadlines and gain confidence in my skills.” – Blueprint for Success Participant.
P R O G R AM P A RT I C I P A NT S
2021 2022
26 participants 46 participants
Advanced Management and Mentorship Program (TM) (AMMP)
Developed at the CWB, this six-month, growth-accelerator program has been successfully running for eight years. Women entrepreneurs who participate in the program typically have two years of experience in business, over $150,000 in revenues and are focused on growth. The program provides a confidential space to invest time in working on their business and to share, collaborate and learn.
“Participating in the AMMP program provided me a chance to pause and reflect on how to expand my business offerings in a way that stayed true to my vision to coach professionals to live their best career story. The peer discussions and external perspectives were topical and added tremendous value to my thought process.”
In 2020, seven clients took part in the AMMP program. Two years after completing the program, one participant reported hitting $1 million in sales revenues.
– Karen Kelloway, founder and CEO, Career Story Project Inc.
Over the past three years, 27 dynamic entrepreneurs were able to grow their businesses through the support of our virtual advisory board for women business owners.
PR O G RA M P A RT I C I P A NTS
2020 2021 2022
7 participants 12 participants 8 participants
“Taking part in AMMP this past year has been an opportunity to not only take a more strategic view of my business and how to best position for growth, it has also brought together a community of women entrepreneurs who have been focused on supporting and learning from each other.” – AMMP Program Participant.
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“My year end is approaching in a few days, and this week, I cracked the 7 digits. Growth has always been a constant focus for me, but cracking a million dollars in revenue is an exciting achievement, that required a great deal of work and determination, it is nice to be able to share the success with the circle who helped me achieve this.” –AMMP Participant (2020).
“I saw the Centre for Women in Business had Coffee Talk every Thursday morning. I joined and that first day I felt very included. I was noticed. I felt like my voice mattered so I kept joining every Thursday.”
Coffee Talk (Supported by TD Bank Group) Women in business across Nova Scotia connect weekly through this popular one-hour online program. Over the past three years, we’ve had more than 2,500 active participants in the program. Initially a once-a-month virtual event, Coffee Talk pivoted to a weekly offering in response to the need of women to more frequently connect with each other during the pandemic. It remains a popular weekly networking event. For many women, Coffee Talk is part of their weekly routine. It is a chance to have conversations with like-minded entrepreneurs, share experiences and knowledge, and learn from each other. Each weekly session includes introductions and a facilitated discussion on recent news or trends in business. The program is available to all women at no cost thanks to TD Bank Group and ACOA.
P R O GR A M P A R T IC IPA NT S
2020 710 participants 2021 966 participants 2022 912 participants
– Ola Williams, owner of Cornish’s Variety.
“Coffee Talk through the CWB is the one event I do my best not to over book in my calendar. The conversations and ideas that come from our shared experiences are priceless.” – Coffee Talk Participant.
“CWB Coffee Talk is a good forum for women in business who live remotely to connect. With a wide range of diverse business operators there is an opportunity to branch out and build on your skills from other likeminded women. For the meetings I attended - everyone was helpful and accommodating.” – Coffee Talk Participant.
Power Lunch Between 2021 and 2022, more than 100 women joined us for a complimentary workshop series, supported by ACOA Cape Breton. Open to all, participants gain useful knowledge at the Power Lunch on topics that help them build their business skill set. Our program started in 2014 as an opportunity for CWB members to gain exposure for their businesses and provide a short skills workshop demonstrating their expertise in topics related to growing a business. The program is also an opportunity for the CWB team to see a prospective speaker or trainer in action to assess their suitability to do deeper training or speaking engagements.
P O WER LUNC H A T T E NDEES
OCT. 2021 – MAR. 2022
“Very enjoyable Power Lunch that provided tools that not only make your work productive but takes into account your personal life and creating a balance.” – Power Lunch Participant.
75 people attended 6 Power Lunches
“Good workshop and nice to network with the participants!” – Power Lunch Participant.
30 people attended OCT. 2022 – DEC. 2022 3 Power Lunches
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Certificate Training Programs (supported by NS Labour, Skills and Immigration)
Women entrepreneurs looking to strengthen their skills in everything from digital marketing to finance essentials turn to these business training programs provided by funding from the Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration.
“The Content Marketing course was a wonderful deep dive into creating your brand, developing effective content. Great marketing practices to get your message not only out, but seen and acted upon.” – Certificate Training Program Participant.
“I thought I was alright at giving presentations before, but after completing this course I have learned ways to better connect with my audiences and have my message received. It really elevated me to the next level.” P R O G R A M P A R T I C I P A NT S
2020-22 more than 100 women took part in programs 2020 51 participants enrolled in 5 different programs 2021 36 participants enrolled in 3 courses 2022 17 participants enrolled in 2 different programs
– Certificate Training Program Participant.
“Financial Essentials takes much of the mystery out of financial jargon and financial statements, especially for small business.” – Certificate Training Program Participant.
“When I have a problem, the CWB assists me in any way they can.” – Rebecca Atkinson, owner of Sober Island Brewing Company.
“Working with the CWB’s business advisor for start-up, I learned I needed to build a structure for my business. You need it so you can grow comfortably.”
Business Advisories
– Stephanie Hovey, founder of Allied Therapy.
The CWB’s team of knowledgeable business advisors support women at each stage of their business from startup to high growth. Through one-on-one conversations, advisors answer questions on everything from how to register a business to developing an export plan, to achieving growth targets. When the pandemic hit Nova Scotia in March 2020, women needed advice quickly and we were there to help. Between March 2020 and June 2020, we gave close to 1,000 advisories.
B U S INE SS A D V ISOR IES PROVIDED BY CWB
2020 2021 2022
1,614 business advisories 1,728 business advisories 1,681 business advisories
5,023 business advisories over the past 3 years 15
“Every time I leave a 1:1 advisory I feel like I have a path forward and know that I can come back for more assistance.” – Business Advisories Participant.
YOU BELONG HERE! Open to all, the CWB offers complimentary, one-on-one business advisories. Our advisors are all entrepreneurs and have been there. We provide a safe, confidential space to talk about your business ideas, help you get started, explore new markets, sustain your business, or just listen. No matter where you are with your business, You Belong Here!, and we are with you along the way.
SPICE (supported by Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture) Committed to finding innovative ways to support women business owners, the CWB develops new programs to meet their needs. The Specialized Program in Cooking Entrepreneurship (SPICE) is one example. Supported by ACOA and the NS Department of Agriculture, SPICE helps those who are ready to move from their kitchen tables to a fullyfunctioning food business, the pilot program is designed for underrepresented Nova Scotians, including Black Nova Scotians, Indigenous and immigrant women. SPICE teaches participants about Nova Scotia food safety standards and how to successfully incorporate them into their businesses. This pilot program included eight weeks of active learning and ongoing support. Due to overwhelming interest in the program, the CWB will continue to offer SPICE as part of its core programming moving forward.
“ The SPICE program made me think and dream bigger about my business…I am now the owner of legitimate and professional food business. With the SPICE Program providing access to a commercial kitchen, I can now consider bigger opportunities. The SPICE program provided the resources for me to purchase a mobile credit and debit machine which allows me to accept other payments besides cash which has increased my sales exponentially” – Basma Rashad
“Having attended the SPICE program did not only add value to my product development but has greatly developed my self-esteem that as an African woman in business, I am promoting inclusion and diversity, which I am proud of.” – Odutope Macauley-Okoro
“My relationship with the CWB is continuous. I think that is one of the CWB’s real strengths - they work with businesses at all ages and stages. That is unique in the entrepreneurial system.”
“Women need a place to go where they feel safe and heard and understood. It’s important for women to see other women being successful. As they say, the future is female. It is nice to work together and have that power together. We can make a difference.”
– Dr. Kes Morton, founder of Pisces Research
Project Management.
“The CWB is all encompassing. I wouldn’t have a business without them.” – CWB Client.
– Faith Drinnan, owner of Sisterhood Fibres.
“The CWB is not about exclusivity. It is about inclusion.” – Michelle AuCoin, executive director and president of LearnAbility.
“The full and equal participation of women in the economy is not just the right thing to do; it’s the smart thing to do.”
“The CWB’s mission is for women to start any business they ever wanted in any industry.” – Eleanor Beaton, founder of SafiMedia,
a business coaching and advisory firm for women entrepreneurs.
–Government of Canada. 17
Membership - You Belong Here.
Our membership is a foundational part of the CWB community. You don’t need to be a member to receive service from our team but when women make that choice they receive member benefits beyond the complimentary services that include marketing opportunities and unlimited access to business advisors. During the pandemic we maintained our prior membership numbers (approximately 250-300) and are proud to say that it is an even mix of new and returning members. We have a growth goal to reach 500 members in the coming 2 years with a recruitment campaign set for fall 2023.
“My main reason is simply the opportunity to be part of community of women in business. Having recently left the corporate world, I hope this network can be an essential support system as I grow my newly independent business. “ – New member
“Being a part of CWB gives women in business a professional atmosphere to keep up to date with programs and services available to business owners. Continuing education segments and the valued knowledge of CWB Staff & Advisors is a key reason for renewing and on a broad spectrum the networking and relationships built with fellow members!
Our work in community, meeting women entrepreneurs where they are, in small group in person meetings, virtually, at expos and in their own neighbourhoods had positive results. This, combined with our Memorandums of Understanding with ecosystem partners has led to an increase in the numbers of CWB members from equity deserving groups. In 2021, as part of our innovation mandate we moved to a new locally owned Client Relationship Management system. This system, who we fondly call Mabel, our wise colleague who holds all of our data, will allow us to build strong relationships with the women we serve and to have enhanced data to share with our stakeholders.
My reasons for renewing – the programs and support you offer to women in business. Also, the networking with other female founders. My company wouldn’t be where it is without the Grow Now program and [the CWB team]!
The number one reason that new members cite joining is to be in the company of like-minded women. They want to build a community of support for themselves.
– Returning member
Become a member today!
“Parkwood Home Care is excited to renew our corporate membership with the Centre for Women in Business to participate in the empowerment of women in business. Being a women run business ourselves, we love to encourage and promote other women run businesses.”
The CWB is a membership organization. An investment in a CWB membership provides a portfolio of benefits that propel business growth and allows our organization to sustain and grow. Help directly impact the movement of our organization by becoming a member, a mentor, or a sponsor. Connect with a network of women entrepreneurs by becoming a member today!
– Corporate member
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Special Projects Greater Heights of Growth (supported through the Women’s Entrepreneurship Strategy Ecosystem Funds and ACOA)
There are 3 components to this project: Advancing High Growth Female Founders; Advancing Female Tech Founders; WiBIF I. Greater Heights of Growth(TM) –Program supported by BDC The CWB’s 12-month, in-depth program provides business owners with all the strategies and tools they need for greater growth. The program targets women entrepreneurs with annual revenues of more than $1 million. With its 12-step business model, it focuses on practical strategies, processes, operating system efficiencies, and infrastructure components required to keep building a business. One hundred per cent of participants reported succeeding in sustaining and growing their revenue. .
P R O GR AM PA R T IC IPA NT S
2020 2021
12 participants 14 participants
2022
8 participants
“I clearly will be able to scale my business much more effectively, profitably and have better employee engagement having gone through this program. Our cohort all came from diverse backgrounds and I loved getting to know everyone. I’m excited for the new tools I have to run my business. The course gave me confidence and tools to move forward.” – Jennie Dobbs, owner of Morris East. “I feel like I am taking a master class in strategic planning. The material covers all the essentials for a productive business strategy course and the participants are at the level that immediate implementation of the topics is possible. The offer of one-onone coaching is perhaps the best part of this.” –Colleen O’Toole, owner and CEO of Lighthouse Transport.
“As business people, we balance working on our business with working in our business. [The program] provided me with a linkage between strategy, execution and cash, along with practical and actionable tools to drive what I learned. The program also allowed me to forge a strong bond with an amazing group of women who live in this roller coaster world of business and for that I am equally grateful.” – Cindy Roma, co-CEO and partner of Telelink.
High Growth Consulting Advisory Services $303k in funding for 32 projects which included tech and high growth women.
Women Presidents Organization (WPO) In 2011, the CWB helped to launch the first Atlantic Canada Chapter of WPO with representation from all four Atlantic Provinces. Currently there are four Atlantic Canadian WPO chapters representing 82 women business owners and one Canadian platinum chapter with 14 members, all supported by CWB’s team member and WPO Chapter Chair, Laurie Sinclair. Having access to this network of women led to the launch of Greater Heights of Growth, a foundational learning program for driving success in your high-growth business. The CWB strongly supports the growth of WPO, a New York-based organization for women leaders of privately-held, multi-million dollar companies. Women, who run multi-million-dollar companies with anywhere from 20 to 800 employees, make up the four WPO chapters in Atlantic Canada.
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“The Greater Heights of Growth Program has provided a solid framework to help me rebuild my business during (and post) the COVID-19 pandemic. The weekly sessions were filled with practical, informative and high-level tools that have helped me look at my business through a new lens. The program is likely one of the most in-depth courses that I have taken part in since starting my business. With a variety of guest speakers, practical worksheets, and group discussions, the content is incredibly relevant and engaging. I am confident that my company will re-emerge stronger, better and more profitable in a postCOVID economy due in large part to this program. Thank you [to the CWB] for creating such an important program for women leaders and for helping us rebuild stronger!” – Patty Howard, Kitchen Door Catering
Special Projects Advancing Female Tech Founders Grow Now Grow Now is designed for female tech founders. The virtual accelerator impacts early-stage, female-led technology startups by providing relevant knowledge that is essential to building a tech business. Startup tech founders also receive 1:1 coaching, along with technical consultation. The Social Hour is a key monthly event where Grow Now participants and alumni meet with industry experts and experienced tech business owners to find out what help and advice is available for female-led tech startups. It is also a chance for participants and alumni to broaden their connections in the tech ecosystem.
P R OG R AM P ART IC IPAN T S
26 participants between 2020 – 2022
“The Grow Now program has allowed me to build a community of like-minded founders who supported my journey. They helped me to overcome the obstacles, celebrated my highs and comforted me in my lows.” – Bronwyn Bridges, CEO and co-founder of PragmaClin Research Inc.
“I love the Grow Now program. I’ve met some incredible mentors that have given us top notch insight that was relatable and understandable. To be a part of a program which celebrates women business owners has been an inspirational experience that I will carry forward in my career. As a result of Grow Now, I will endeavour to become a mentor to other women business owners as well.” – Sherry Law, CEO and co-founder of Innerva Virtual Inc.
Melissa MacMaster, co-founder of Food for Thought Software Solutions, is set to soon expand nationally thanks to Grow Now, the CWB’s virtual accelerator program targeted at female-led
technology companies.
“We’ve validated our products, governments are using our technology and we’re feeding kids, so we want to be the software solution to Canada’s national school food program. After that, we hope to grow globally — to the United States and other countries where there are high rates of food insecurity amongst children.”
“As a new entrepreneur where every second of my day is booked and accounted for, I was worried about losing my time taking this course. It was worth it! My business would not be where it is now without the teaching, support, guidance and connections it provided. If you are on the fence about participating in Grow Now, don’t second guess it, it will be worth your time!”
“There’s a unique sensitivity and connection from the Grow Now program that I haven’t experienced with other programs.”
“I always appreciate being in a small group of founders and discussing what we’re going through at the time,” – Laura Simpson, co-founder of Side Door, a platform that connects live music performers with hosts to book memorable shows, and a 2022 Grow Now participant.
– Sherry Law, co-founder of Innerva Virtual and a participant in the 2022 Grow Now program.
“Grow Now has been a gamechanger in our business.” –Grow Now Program Participant.
– Christy Silvestri, president and CEO of QuickFacts Inc.
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“We already had the business established, but we were kind of going through this transformation where we were looking to take the next step, mainly focusing on leveraging tech to grow the company. That’s when we heard about the Grow Now program, being focused mainly on technology companies. I thought it was a great opportunity to guide us.” – Hannah Stegen, co-founder of CultureAlly, who was part of the Grow Now’s 2023 program.
Special Projects Advancing Female Founder Groups ACOA brought together key innovation ecosystem leads with the objective of establishing an aligned vision towards advancing more female technology founders: 1. Introduction of each organization and female focused tech program; 2. Identify challenges for female technology founders; 3. Identify opportunities for future collaboration.
In 2022, the Advancing Female Founders stakeholder group, that consists of various government organizations, non-profit groups and partners, commissioned Eleanor Beaton of Safi Media to lead a consultation with a group of Nova Scotia based tech and tech enabled women entrepreneurs. The mission was to glean firsthand unfiltered and constructive insights on what works, what hasn’t worked and what supports would make the biggest difference as they scale their companies. The stakeholder group was provided a final report that has influenced our future work and projects.
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Special Projects Building the Tech Eco-System The Centre for Women in Business established two MOU’s with the Atlantic Women Venture Foundation to support the inaugural creation of the venture capital organization Sandpiper Ventures and establish Atlantic Canada’s first angel fund, both focused on female startups and investors. The purpose of the MOU’s was to establish a mutually beneficial framework in the spirit of collaboration between the two organizations. The objective was to ensure the CWB was involved in providing services to their clients and vice versa.
Consulting Advisory Service Program (CAS) (supported by ACOA NS)
The CWB did 232 consulting projects for clients between March 2020 and March 2023 with a total project worth $ 1.277 M.
Mentor Boot Camp Launched in 2022 to address a gap in the availability of trained mentors in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, the program now has more than 50 mentors who target female-led, tech startups. It is designed for business professionals and business owners who are interested in mentoring tech and non-tech startups.
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PARTICIPANTS & GRADS
2021 15 graduates 2022 23 participants
Special Projects CWB Cape Breton Project (supported by ACOA Cape Breton)
The CWB has expanded its services in Cape Breton. Over the last three years, we have exceeded many of our targets. We provided 364 Business Advisories, 10 workshops, 70 virtual Coffee Talks, nine Power Lunches, two Mastermind groups, sponsorship/partnerships with three women business events, and grew our membership to 20 members. Several special events brought local entrepreneurs together during the past three years. In 2020, 14 participants took part in a Best Bet Business book review webinar. In 2021 and 2022, the CWB supported the Advantage Conference. Hosted by the Cape Breton Regional Chamber of Commerce, Advantage is an inspiring and empowering day for women in business in Cape Breton.
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Facts
17%
Just over of Canadian small and medium-sized businesses are owned by
Women
women.
entrepreneurs
are more likely to be in services, social, health and beauty, and food sectors than in manufacturing and technology. They are less likely to receive financing
than men (32.6 per cent vs. 38 per cent) and firms owned by men are more likely to receive venture capital or angel funding.
If women were
Close to
38%
of self-employed Canadians are
women
.
In 2022, fewer than five percent of corporate and government contracts are awarded to women owned businesses, according to In 2022, fewer Business than five per cent of corporate and government the Women Enterprises Canada Council. contracts are awarded to women owned businesses
able to fully participate in the economy, they would contribute
$150 million to Canada’s GDP.
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Special Projects The Atlantic Canadian Women in Growth Partnership (ACWGP) (supported by WES Ecosystem Fund/ACOA)
This three-year project was funded by ACOA to address gaps and build capacity in the women’s entrepreneurship ecosystem in Atlantic Canada. ACWGP had two main goals; one goal was to boost support for women in startup and growth phases, and the other was to increase the participation of under-represented women, including newcomers, Indigenous and rural women, as well as those in STEM-related fields. ACWGP was a pan-Atlantic project between the CWB, the Prince Edward Island Business Women’s Association, Women in Business New Brunswick, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs.
In September 2020, an “Indigenous Women Leading the Way” panel brought together 71 participants. One recommendation from the panel was to create microloans for Indigenous business owners with eligibility that is less aligned with banking regulations. The panel heard that the majority of Indigenous women business owners are sole proprietors operating part-time, seasonal, home-based businesses. These women typically finance their own business, lack the necessary criteria for most funding applications and don’t have the collateral needed for bank loans.
630 participants engaged
In November 2020, a “Women in Science & Tech Leading the Way” panel attracted 72 participants. The panel focused on increasing women’s sales strategies for raising funds and decreasing the number of women using selffunding options. The panel emphasized growth, return on investment, and how to make women-led businesses more attractive to investors.
in several panels between
2020 – 2022
In 2022, the panels Atlantic - Rural Women Leading the Way in Entrepreneurship and Atlantic - Women Leading the Way in Export and International Trade drew a total of 100 participants.
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Special Projects
Programs that came under Nova Scotia ACWGP include: Start Up Challenge
Up to Speed
In March 2020, immigrant women in Nova Scotia developed their business ideas, received 1:1 coaching, engaged with women leaders, and participated in a Start Up Challenge pitch competition for a $5,000 award.
In 2021 and 2022, the CWB delivered the Up to Speed: Digital Transition and Mentorship program - a series of five, half-day digital workshops, in partnership with NSBI, ACOA and EduNova.
It was an exciting opportunity for the CWB to deliver a program specifically targeting new immigrant women, something we hadn’t done before. All 15 participants were awarded a one-year membership to the CWB and additional CWB advisory sessions. Delivered by the CWB, Toronto Metropolitan University’s Diversity Institute and the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, the Start Up Challenge was part of a series of innovative approaches to supporting economic inclusion for newcomers. In November 2020 a second Start Up Challenge was held and 15 immigrant women took part. In March 2021, 16 women took the challenge.
Women received information on the best digital marketing techniques to either enhance or launch an online presence for their businesses. Between November 2021 and February 2022, two groups of 20 participants took part in the program. They joined the team from Revolve Marketing & Branding to learn how to build a virtual storefront, and how to reach the right audience with the right message. Participants also received information about hiring a co-op student or recent Nova Scotia graduate to help with executing a digital plan for their business.
“I valued the opportunity to build on my skills and knowledge and connect with other immigrant women entrepreneurs in Halifax.” – Start Up Challenge Participant.
“I have a plan on how to move forward with business growth within the next six months.” – Scale Up Participant.
Scale Up Participants in the Scale Up program discovered how to move from a business-to-customer model to a businessto-business model. They identified their ideal clients, learned the difference between retail and wholesale pricing, and developed strategies for approaching new customers. The 15-hour program not only provided insightful knowledge, but coaching and connections to new markets. Between January and February 2023, 19 women took part in the program and gained valuable insights into the wholesaling process.
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“Establishing a wholesale rate allowed me to finish creating a sell sheet and pitch letter. I got two new wholesale clients.” – Scale Up Participant.
Special Projects
“This program was amazing and I enjoyed the one-on-one consultation. It really helped me understand a lot about my online business and how to move forward and be a strong brand. Thank you and Skysail for the detailed work done. Thank you for adding real value to my business through this program.”
Business Growth Mastermind Program Our program was designed for 10 women in business looking to work in an intimate and supportive environment focused on pushing them out of their comfort zone and growing their business. We offered two cohorts – one for businesses with annual revenues between $10,000 and $50,000 and one for businesses with annual revenues between $50,000 and $100,000.
– Moving Women Online Participant.
In 2021 and 2022, the CWB held five Mastermind programs, including two in Cape Breton. A total of 41 participants took part in the programs.
“This was an amazing boost in a challenging time due to Covid and all the fallout.” – Growth Mastermind Participant.
“I took the CWB facilitator’s suggestion on reaching out to a previous email list and had $7,000 in orders!” – Growth Mastermind Participant.
Moving Women Online Between August and October 2020, 12 Women took part in this virtual project launched by the CWB in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, many women business owners had a website, but no virtual storefront. This program helped them move their business website to an online, eCommerce platform enabling them to create new revenue streams. The program included 1:1 coaching and weekly, peer-to-peer facilitated discussions. It was facilitated by Skysail, a rural, all-female design and marketing agency.
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Special Projects Nova Scotia Native Women’s Association (NSNWA) Sisterness Trading Post - Project Support
BLK Women in Excellence
When WB-NB created its Nujintuisga’tijig E’pijig website, they offered for the 3 other provinces to be part of the project. After consulting with the Nova Scotia Native Women’s Association (NSNWA), they had informed us they had already created the Sisterness Trading Post site in response to restriction of in-person events such as the various Pow Wows where women crafters would typically sell their products.
Tia Upshaw, CEO, BLK Women in Excellence, partnered with the CWB to develop a Canadian Women in Excellence Video Series. BLK Women in Excellence is a not-for-profit organization that supports the education and empowerment of Black Women in Nova Scotia to be self-employed in sustainable businesses. The organization offers workshops, seminars, community partnerships and engagement, coaching calls and mentorship initiatives.
– 28-Day Celebrating Black History Month Through Black Women Entrepreneurs – 28 African NS Black women.
In January 2023, another conversation on the site indicated the need to include additional crafters from their Jane Paul Indigenous Resource Centre (JPC) Sisterness store in Sydney, NS. The JPC is a not-for-profit organization providing a variety of supports and services to Indigenous women who found themselves living in Sydney, off reserve and away from community resources and found themselves in high-risk situations. In order to provide them with employment, elders teach their craft to these women, who then sell their items through the Store. Moving them to the on-line Sisterness site will help to increase their self-employment opportunities. This project included an upgrade of the Sisterness Website from WIX to Square and integration of the Sydney JPC. Items will be made available online and automatically updated in the Sisterness POS inventory control system. NSNWA will also take this opportunity to add beads and beading kits to this site, something they were not able to do with the original project.
This project featured 28- African Nova Scotian women business owners in a 3 min solo interview and included roundtable conversations on various topics of business including barriers to business, capital, bias against black women in business, etc. The objective of the project was to boost the presence of strong NS African Black women owners in our community (See it Be it). The series was shared across various social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin.
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Special Projects Advancing Supplier Diversity in Atlantic Canada (a Pan Atlantic Project supported by ACOA Moncton) The CWB’s work to increase supplier diversity, procurement and bid proposal training is part of an Advancing Supplier Diversity in Atlantic Canada special project. In July 2022, the CWB, together with the Supplier Diversity Alliance Canada and sponsor Nova Scotia Business Inc., held an event called Doing Business with Big Business: Celebrating Growth.
At the
2022 event:
40 participants took part in corporate training 62 participants took part in supplier diversity training
Support and education was offered to both buyers and sellers interested in the community and economic benefits of inclusive, social procurement practices. The event helped open the supply chain to all diverse business owners interested in exploring expansion beyond Nova Scotia’s borders.
Atlantic Canada Mentorship Program “We need people we can lean on; we need people we can trust. I’m able to have a safe space at the CWB.”
The CWB, together with WBE Canada, have created a virtual mentorship program for women business owners, who are diverse suppliers. WBE Canada is the bridge between Canadian womenowned businesses and large corporate and public buyers that were previously out of reach. The mentorship and training program pairs participants with a corporate mentor and an experienced WBE certified mentor, helping women business owners understand how to win contracts and gain a foothold in the supply chain of large corporations.
– Stephanie Hovey, speech-language pathologist and founder of Allied Therapy.
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CWB’S RESPONSE TO COVID-19 Nora Perry
Recovery to rebuilding to reaching forward. That’s been the
path from 2020 through to early 2023.
When COVID-19 first hit in March 2020, we saw a lot of fear and heartache at the CWB. A lot of women found their whole livelihood put on hold with shut downs and social distancing. Many were also homeschooling kids and caring for elderly parents. Huge numbers of women business owners called us asking “What do we do next? How do we keep our employees and customers safe?” To support our clients through that initial period, we increased the frequency of our e-newsletter, the CWB Update. We sent it out two to three times per week, communicating accurate information about restrictions and protocols, and letting women know what emergency funding was available to them. The CWB also spent a lot of time examining those funding programs using a gender lens to see how to make them equitable. We then advocated on behalf of women to government agencies, business associations, and others in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
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Working with ACOA as part of the region’s recovery efforts, we created the Women in Business Implementation Fund (WiBIF). It rolled out in July 2020, initially funding 89 projects and two Mastermind groups. Seventy-five per cent of those projects were digital in nature. Women received consulting support to set up a training platform or take their current curriculum online, upgrade their websites or add e-commerce capabilities. Then we did a second round of WiBIF funding in January 2021, and supported an additional 63 projects. Our clients were so grateful for this help, and used it as a stepping stone to significant growth. Service-based industries undertook training during the shutdowns to plan for next steps, and
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many grassroots businesses started up in people’s homes. If there are any silver linings to COVID-19 for women business owners, it’s that they realized they could do business globally. In short order, many of our clients have started exporting their products and services. At the same time the CWB pivoted fully online. We had already started moving into the virtual space with our Blueprint for Success and Coffee Talk programs, but everything else was held in person in Halifax. That all changed with COVID-19. The CWB did more business advisories between March and June 2020 than we had in all of 2019. And they were all done over Zoom. Before, we regularly had 50 women at our monthly networking breakfasts; now we met weekly and served that many each Thursday morning through our virtual Coffee Talks. We got to know each other on a much more personal level through these Zoom connections. We saw each other’s homes, met kids, spouses, parents, pets - even a baby goat once! It deepened our relationships and changed our clients’ mindset toward online learning and communities: the majority want to continue to live and interact in the virtual space. In early 2023, we are seeing a lot of excitement. Women are looking to the future and willing to learn skills. They want to start businesses, expand to new markets, and reach greater heights. We’re busier than we’ve ever been before and just as excited as our clients to adapt and grow.
“When the pandemic hit, the CWB was able to respond quickly. When the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) said we need to get supports to business owners to allow them to pivot to keep functioning in a pandemic, the CWB was able to get $500,000 to women in about a month.” - Carly Campbell, retired economic development officer for ACOA.
Special Projects
Pandemic Response: A Feminist Economic Recovery Plan for WBO’s in NS (supported by Women and Gender Equality Canada) The Women in Business Implementation Fund During the pandemic, the CWB successfully helped more than 150 women access the Women in Business Implementation Fund. Supported by ACOA, the fund directly supported women-owned businesses to implement small-scale projects related to their business operations, business transformations, and recovery measures.
I MP LE MENT A T ION FUND
2020 89 businesses assisted 2021 63 businesses assisted Growth Incentive Funding Solution (GIFS) This CWB micro-contribution pilot program was for 20 women business owners from different industries. The program provided business owners at the start-up and mid-growth level with 1:1 advisory services and a contribution of $5,000 or $10,000 to grow their business. One business owner in the creative sector used the funds she received to purchase equipment to increase her productivity. It allowed her to meet a $650,000 order she received. By fulfilling this order, she increased her visibility and wholesale sales to museums and high-end retail stores.
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“This is the first time I was able to access funds, including grants or loans. I felt like someone believed in me and my businesses.” – Program Participant.
Special Projects Pre-Employment Skills Development in Atlantic First Nations Communities (2022-2023) (Supported by Employment
and Social Development Canada)
Mount Saint Vincent University is partnering with the Atlantic Aboriginal Economic Development Integrated Research Program, the Centre for Women in Business, the Native Employment Officers in band offices, the Native Women’s Association of Canada, and the Nova Scotia Native Women’s Association. The partnership will address the systemic barriers to access off-reserve resources for women living in Indigenous communities.
Capital Skills (2022-2023) Over the past three months, the CWB delivered several complimentary training programs designed to build a foundation for women-owned businesses, improve skills to gain access to financial opportunities, and build women business owners’ capacity within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The project’s specific objectives are to: • Provide and test pre-employment and skills development supports, which is foundational and transferable skills training and wrap-around supports;
The programming supported the research of Toronto Metropolitan University’s Diversity Institute, which promotes diversity and inclusion as the key to Canada’s competitiveness.
• Provide and test models to improve workplace inclusivity. Work with employers to improve access to employment and retention in the workplace for one or more of the target groups; and
Between January and March 2023, the CWB delivered several training programs including the Blueprint for Success to women in Membertou, a Mi’kmaq community located in Cape Breton. Programs on financial literacy, pitching and proposal writing were part of the programming. In total, there were 104 participants in six different programs.
• Consult with employers to identify preemployment skills desired by employers.
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Special Projects Trade Missions • The Gateway for Trade to the Caribbean and Latin America (2020- 2023) (Supported by ACOA NS) • Virtual Trade Missions to Boston (2021-2022) (Supported by NSBI)
Trade missions help delegates connect with potential international business opportunities and create networks of buyers, agents, suppliers and key government contacts in specific countries or regions. During in-person trade missions, delegates travel to the market and take part in several days of scheduled business meetings with pre-qualified potential customers, partners, distributors and other key contacts. Virtual trade missions include a welcome reception, mentoring, and scheduled business meetings over a period of four to six weeks.
Between
2020 and 2022 the CWB delivered
4 trade missions with support from ACOA and Nova Scotia Business Inc.
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In May 2020, the CWB held a Virtual Trade Mission to Kingston, Jamaica and Miami, Florida; 10 participants took part. In 2021, two Virtual Trade Missions were held; one to Boston, Massachusetts. and another to Kingston, Jamaica and Miami, Florida.; 22 participants in total took part. In September 2022, the CWB held an in-person Trade Mission to Miami, Florida and Jamaica; there were 12 participants. NSBI invited the CWB to partner on a virtual, multisector trade mission to Boston, Massachusetts, for high growth, women owned or women led businesses in February 2020.
Student Programming
Based at Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU), the CWB works closely with the institution to deliver meaningful student entrepreneurship programs and to connect young women entrepreneurs with members of the entrepreneurship ecosystem. The CWB fosters formal and informal mentorship relationships.
The SparkZone (supported by the N.S. Department of Advanced Education and MSVU)
The program brings together students and community members to develop and launch business ideas and social innovations. In the SparkZone Ignition Program, students work together to build business ideas, create connections and receive honorariums for their hard work. The program includes workshops, seminars, roundtables, and mentorship to students across Nova Scotia.
RBC Alliance of Young Women Entrepreneurs
In the three years between 2020 and 2022, more than 800 students participated in the Ignition program.
The RBC Alliance of Young Women Entrepreneurs (AYWE) is the first program of its kind in Canada. It empowers female students to reach their full potential to become entrepreneurs through connection and learning. Program participants receive a complimentary membership to the CWB.
Several Fireside Chats were held on everything from mentorship and productivity to entrepreneurs’ mental health. Between 2020 and 2022, there were 238 participants in the Fireside Chats.
Throughout the 2019-2020 academic year, the AYWE program grew to 42 students from 20. In the 2020-2021 academic year, the AYWE program had 52 students.
In the past three years, we had 388 students take part in an eight-week, in-depth program on personal finances called #ADULTING. It was held in collaboration with Junior Achievement of Nova Scotia and Atlantic Credit Unions.
During the 2021-2022 academic year, the AYWE program grew to 54 students, the largest group since its inception.
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Special Events International Women’s Day (Supported by RBC) March 8 is an important day for the CWB and our members. International Women’s Day is a springboard to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
“It showed me, even more, the strength we have as women when we stand together in solidarity.” – International Women’s Day Attendee.
VI RT UA L EV E NT A T T ENDEES
2021
“Always inspiring when you gather your members together. I really felt the love through the poetry reading, and the genuine enthusiasm of your speakers.”
194 attendees
2022 207 attendees
– International Women’s Day Attendee.
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Innovate, featuring Digital Nova Scotia’s Digital Diversity Awards The awards celebrate and honour female leaders and diversity champions in the province’s information and communications technology sector.
I NNO VATE SUC C E SS
2020 22 award nominations in 5 categories with 187 participants 2021
100 virtual event participants
“The CWB is proud to collaborate in celebration of diversity and innovation, both of which have been particularly valuable during the pandemic. Over the past almost two years, the CWB has helped more than 160 women – 75 per cent of them with digital adoption – innovate new ways to approach their business. While tech played a significant role in helping these entrepreneurs through the pandemic, it also demanded that we at the CWB look for more diverse and innovative ways to deliver our own programs and services.” – Tanya Priske, the CWB’s executive director.
CWB 30th Anniversary Event
“Thirty years ago a scant business plan launched the CWB. It had a very small budget and just one or two people. And from that grew this gem.”
Over the last 30 years, the CWB has learned what it takes to build and grow a business - and how to create a world where women entrepreneurs thrive. To celebrate the CWB’s 30th anniversary and the launch of The CWB Way: Transforming Women’s Entrepreneurial Experiences, close to 100 people gathered at Mount Saint Vincent University in October 2022. At the celebratory event, the CWB team reflected on how far we’ve come and how much we’ve accomplished. But most importantly, we looked ahead to the next 30 years. We’ve got big dreams and a powerful vision.
– Tanya Priske, the CWB’s executive director.
“The CWB’s mission is for women to start any business they ever wanted in any industry, any business. No limits - no barriers. CWB will be your partner in overcoming them.” – Eleanor Beaton, founder of Safi Media.
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Creating and Supporting Partnerships
Below is a sampling of some of the conversations we’ve been a part of, partnerships we’ve fostered, and issues facing women entrepreneurs we’ve spoken out on.
ROUNDTABLES & PANEL DISCUSSIONS On November 24, 2022, Isabelle Hudon, President, BDC invited the CWB and several of its clients, to an exclusive breakfast roundtable event to network and share valuable insights as a Nova Scotia based women entrepreneur. Topics included: the CWB’s Greater Heights of Growth Program; the importance of building business relationships with your lender; why it is important to diversity your business; and what more can the BDC do for women entrepreneurs. •
COMMITTEES • The Pictou Landing First Nation (PLFN) invited the CWB to participate in the Selection Committee for the PLFN Business Grant and Equity Program. During 2021, $52,000 was allocated to ten indigenous entrepreneurs.
• To further increase the visibility of female tech founders in Atlantic Canada and beyond, the CWB supported 3 panel discussions at the annual Atlantic Venture Forum between 2020 and 2022. The sessions featured Atlantic Canadian female tech founders, showcased the advancement of women in technology and discussions on how to radically disrupt the venture capital environment. Partners included the Atlantic Women’s Venture Foundation and Sandpiper Ventures.
• CWB participated in the Non-Profit Leadership Committee within the Business and Tourism Department at MSVU. The committee participates in program and curriculum development.
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ADVOCACY •
The Office of the Auditor General of Nova Scotia met with the CWB to discuss how provincial programs met the needs of women business owners during the pandemic.(January 2021) • In November 2021, The CWB and MSVU welcomed to campus U.S. Ambassador to Canada, David Cohen, to a female leader’s roundtable. Focus of the discussion was on diversity, equity and inclusion and how the US Department of Commerce’s U.S. Commercial Service at the Embassy in Ottawa can work to build a stronger trade relationship between US and Canadian businesses.
PRESENTATIONS • The CWB provides workshops and information sessions to organizations wishing to provide skills development to their clients/members. Some examples: a Grow Your Business workshop for Professional Organizers in Canada and the Craft Alliance Atlantic Association; presentation to the Western Regional Enterprise Network inviting them to refer their clients to our many programs and services
• The Honorable Melanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (2021), invited the CWB to a virtual Atlantic Women’s Business forum to provide feedback on behalf of Nova Scotia women business owners on how federal programs helped them during the pandemic and how to best work together to build back better. The forum also included participation from NLOWE, PEI-BWA, WBNB and Honourable Bernadette Jordan, Honorable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Guide Hutchings and Parliamentary Secretary Darren Fisher.
• Guest panel with the Atlantic Trades Business Standard program at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC); on business planning and ecosystem resources.
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Recognition The CWB is indebted to the following supporters: The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU)