We are dedicated to the development, expansion and promotion of women’s entrepreneurship
For almost 30 years, AWE has been aligned through a unified purpose to increase women’s access to entrepreneurship and in doing so, creating a more prosperous and equitable future.
With our rich history dating back almost three decades, Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) was founded as part of the Women’s Enterprise Initiative (WEI) in 1995.
AWE remains a non-profit organization governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, run by a dedicated team of employees and supported by an extensive contractor and volunteer network. While the services and programs delivered by AWE have evolved through the decades, the focus remains on providing women entrepreneurs the support and resources necessary to build and grow their businesses.
AWE supports women’s access to entrepreneurship and enables them to grow and scale their businesses by providing connection, capacity and capital. AWE continually strives to be Alberta’s leading organization dedicated to the development, expansion, and promotion of women’s entrepreneurship.
“Our programs and initiatives make a tangible difference by fostering innovation, growth and success in our community. We have built impactful access to capital, connections and capacity for entrepreneurs through loans and referrals to other financial capital sources, our learning sessions and programs, advising and peer mentorship.”
Marcela Mandeville, 2023, CEO AWE
“Focus groups in Alberta found women don’t have access to financing for capital. Our basic goal is to help women start up and expand their own businesses … The whole thing is a support network. Programs are being developed to nurture the skills of budding entrepreneurs.”
Corinne Tessier, 1996, Executive Director AWEIA
Our Impact
