Going global: Empowering women through trade

Women-owned businesses contribute more than $117 billion to Canada’s economy. In 2007, women-owned, small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) represented 5.9% of export activity; that number is now 11%, with 16% of SMEs majority-owned by women nationwide. And exciting change is underway. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of women-led networking groups, organizations, and associations, all with a mandate of empowering women to achieve greatness in business. 

At EDC, we’ve set a goal through our Women in Trade strategy to facilitate $6 billion in trade for women ready to export or already exporting. Our $200 million Inclusive Trade Investments Program provides equity capital to Canadian women and diverse entrepreneurs leading high-growth companies. And we have solutions and programs to give Canadian women the support, advice and insights they need to grow their businesses. 

Whether it’s accessing capital, building sustainable networks or finding the right export support, the challenges are many, but you’re not alone. Our EDC Women in Trade guide will help you understand the issues and develop strategies for overcoming them.