Loans to women entrepreneurs jumped 86 per cent while mentorship demand climbed nearly 50 per cent in 2025/26 

KELOWNA, BC, Oct. 19, 2026 /CNW/ -- As small businesses navigate economic uncertainty, evolving markets and new opportunities, WeBC is seeing more women entrepreneurs seek capital and hands-on business support.  

WeBC is a federally funded not-for-profit that engages with women entrepreneurs in B.C. providing loans, mentorship, advisory services and skills training. This rise in demand for support signals that entrepreneurs are increasingly seeking financing and expertise to start and grow their businesses. 

During Small Business Week (October 19 to 25, 2026), WeBC can provide expert commentary on: 

• Why the need for business financing and mentorship is surging among B.C.'s women entrepreneurs 
  
  
• Why access to capital remains a barrier to business growth 
  
  
• What women entrepreneurs need to move from starting up to scaling up 
  
  
• Why financing alone isn't enough to build a successful business 
  
  
• How women-owned businesses can tap into major projects, procurement and new supply chains 

Available spokesperson: 

Shauna Harper, CEO, WeBC – Available to discuss how women entrepreneurs are navigating trade uncertainty, rising costs and changing consumer spending; the impact on business confidence, investment and growth plans; and how businesses are managing financial pressures while exploring new markets, supply chains and procurement opportunities heading into 2027.

Interviews are available by phone or video call during Small Business Week, October 19 – 25, 2026. 

About WeBC 

Since 1995, WeBC has helped women business owners start, grow, and lead enterprises that fuel innovation, create jobs, and strengthen communities. Despite women's immense economic potential, systemic barriers still limit access to capital and resources. WeBC exists to change that. Through tailored financing, mentorship, and business support, WeBC equips women entrepreneurs to fully participate in and shape BC's economic future. Learn more at we-bc.ca.

SOURCE WeBC