Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs
Indigenous women are valuable investments.
Indigenous women are, and always have been at the very heart of our communities. Since time immemorial, Indigenous women tended the hearth and home, collaborated on community building, and participated in decision-making and trade agreements
- Shannin Metatawabin, ICD.D – Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NACCA
Access to Capital
Flexible micro-loans to start or grow your business, with terms designed for accessibility and success.
One-on-one support
Personalized guidance from our Business Services Ofiicer—from idea to application to aftercare.
Skills & Training
Workshops and practical tools in business planning, cash‑flow, marketing, and more.
Build Credit
Establish your credit history through small business loans and guided support.
Fueling the Growth of Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs
The Indigenous Women Entrepreneur (IWE) Program is a national initiative developed by NACCA and delivered by Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs), including the Alberta Indian Investment Corporation (AIIC). It is designed to support Indigenous women in launching, growing, and sustaining successful businesses.
Vision for Indigenous Women
Entrepreneurs
We are secure, resilient Indigenous women
entrepreneurs who are:
• thriving in businesses that reflect our culture
and values,
• meeting our family needs, and
• leading communities.
$11.4 M
Since 2022, Indigenous Financial Institutions have delivered over 5,000 advisory services, training to nearly 5,000 participants, and approved over 600 loans valued at over $11.4 million.
A Launchpad for Indigenous Entrepreneurs
The IWE Program is more than just access to funding — it’s a launchpad designed to reduce the barriers that often stand between Indigenous women and their dreams of owning a business.
Starting a business can be overwhelming, especially when navigating financial systems for the first time. The IWE Program was built to simplify that first step. From a streamlined application process to one-on-one support, the program is intentionally designed to make entrepreneurship more accessible, achievable, and sustainable for Indigenous women across Alberta.
How to Apply
1. Connect with AIIC – Book a call or email to discuss your idea and fit for IWE.
2. Prepare your package – Simplified Business Plan, 1‑year cash‑flow, & completed application.
3. Submit your application – We’ll guide you through forms and supporting documents.
4. Review & decision – We’ll assess financing, structure terms, and outline next steps.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the IWE Program, applicants must:
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- Be Status First Nation woman who has resided in Alberta for at least one year
-
- Own 51% or more of the business
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- Be actively involved in day-to-day business operations
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- Have credit in good standing, no outstanding collections
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- Submit a simplified business plan and 1-year cash flow forecast
Financing Overview
Eligible applicants may access up to $25,000 in micro-loans of combined financing and grant support.
Breakdown:
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- Loan Financing: Minimum 50%
-
- Non-repayable Contribution (Grant): Up to 45% (based on needs)
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- Equity Requirement: 0–10% (cash or in-kind)
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- Loan Term: Up to 60 months (5 years)
Incredible Numbers
50%
NACCA IWE Goal
By 2025, the number of Indigenous women accessing financing through the IFI network will increase by 50%.
$ 11.4 B
Promising Growth
Since 2022, Indigenous Financial Institutions have delivered over 5,000 advisory services, training to nearly 5,000 participants, and approved over 600 loans valued at over $11.4 million.
$ 56 B
National Contribution
The Indigenous economy now contributes more than $56 billion annually to Canada's GDP and continues to grow in strength
Ready to take the first step in your business journey?
Click here to download the Indigenous Women Entrepreneur (IWE) Program application form and information package,
Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow, we're here to support you every step of the way.
PDF – includes:
- IWE application
- Business Plan Workbook
- 1 year cash-flow template
- Application checklist
