Government and Policy Makers
Quick Facts
Women entrepreneurs have become a strong economic contributors to our local, provincial, national, and global economies, and are growing wealth faster than ever before.
But still, work needs to be done to level the playing field. In Canada women-owned businesses account for 15.6% of majority owned SMEs with employees.
Women’s underrepresentation in small businesses is not only an indicator of social inequality but also an indicator of significant missed opportunities. An increase in women entrepreneurs is an important source of economic development. While women are starting businesses more than ever before, they continue to confront unique challenges as they move through the phases of business development.
When women start businesses, the ripple effects are tremendous—they create jobs for others, increase household income, and invest back into the community.
Governments play an important role in creating conditions that support and advance women entrepreneurs both in the startup phase, and in driving sustainable, long-term growth and expansion.
From removing major barriers to creating an investment environment that rewards inclusion and innovation, to increasing access to finance, markets and networks, policy is a power driver that can unlock the full economic potential of the women’s entrepreneurship sector.
Entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises are the backbone of the Canadian economy.
Unleashing women’s economic potential is just good policy.
Shannon has experience working with all levels of government and policy makers to address and solve gaps in services and support for women entrepreneurs and incorporate a meaningful women’s entrepreneurial dimension across entrepreneurship-related policies. She leverages comprehensive data, deep financial sector expertise, an entrepreneurial perspective, and innovative funding and service models to help shape policies that promote small business ownership among women and advance women’s entrepreneurship.
Working to advance Canada’s women entrepreneurship strategy
Canada’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy is committed to helping women entrepreneurs grow their businesses through access to financing, talent, networks and expertise.
Working to advance Canada’s
Women entrepreneurship strategy
Canada’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy is committed to helping women entrepreneurs grow their businesses through access to financing, talent, networks and expertise.
In support of the Strategy, the Government of Canada established the WES Expert Panel to provide advice and identify opportunities and challenges for women entrepreneurs.
What is the Expert Panel?
In 2019, the Government of Canada assembled diverse and talented Canadians to be members of an Expert Panel. The Panel was comprised of experts from the private sector and civil society from across the country, with significant experience, expertise, and knowledge in a range of disciplines. Members had backgrounds that included entrepreneurs (in various sectors), financial experts, mentors and academics.
The Panel advises on a range of issues, including identifying and providing options to solve gaps in services and supports available to women entrepreneurs in Canada. The Panel has provided recommendations to the Government and has fulfilled its mandate.
Invite Shannon
Invite Shannon to help you identify critical gender gaps across your entrepreneurship-related policies and processes.
Together we can break down barriers, drive entrepreneurship, and unlock a more inclusive, sustainable economy.