WeBC

Free WeBC Business Loan Info Session
2024-09-17 12:00 - 13:00 UTC | Webinar
Learn about the financing options available through WeBC!
WeBC has a Business Loan Program, and we are the BC Loan Fund Partner of the WEOC National Loan Program for women and non-binary entrepreneurs.
If you would like to access these programs to start, expand or purchase a business you will need to participate in one of our free phone-in info sessions about the loan programs.
During this session, the facilitator will:

Review our lending criteria for each program
Answer your questions
Advise you on how to apply
Provide you with a resource package

An Advisor will work with you to determine if you are eligible for a loan.
These FREE phone-in sessions are held every Tuesday from 12pm to 1pm PT.
Register free >>>

KORE Outdoors Speaker Series: Ales Jurca | Volumental
2024-12-17 11:30 - 12:30 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual
Join the informative online event with Ales Jurca, VP Footwear Research at Volumental, as part of our KORE Outdoors Speaker Series.
In this webinar, you’ll learn about the industry-leading technology that’s changing the way shoppers, retailers, and brands think about outdoor footwear. Volumental, based in Sweden, is a global innovation leader in footwear-sizing research and technology. The company matches shoppers to shoes using 3D foot scanning. It also maintains an extensive dataset of more than 60 million scans collected from 3,000+ footwear brands and retailers worldwide including Fleet Feet, New Balance, and The Athlete’s Foot.
Register Here>>>

Tech The Halls
2024-12-12 16:00 - 19:00 UTC | The Innovation Centre, Doyle Avenue, KELOWNA, BC, Canada
Get ready to celebrate the holiday season with AO and the Okanagan tech community at the annual Tech The Halls event! Join us at the Innovation Centre for an unforgettable evening filled with festive vibes, amazing connections, and holiday cheer. We’re bringing the Okanagan tech and business communities together with food, drinks, live music, and more! Don’t forget to wear your favourite festive attire—holiday sweaters are highly encouraged!
Who Should Attend?
If you’re a business professional, entrepreneur, Innovation Centre tenant, student, or just someone looking to connect with the Okanagan business scene, this is the perfect event to kick off your holiday season! Come ready to network, celebrate, and enjoy good company with like-minded individuals.
What’s Included?

Two drink tickets for wine, beer, or Franco’s seltzer options
Complimentary non-alcoholic drinks
Light bites & treats from the talented team at Gather Restaurant
Live music and a festive vibe

Mark your calendar, bring your festive spirit, and let’s Tech The Halls!
Register Here

The Mentorship Effect: How Women Entrepreneurs Build Stronger Businesses Together
2024-12-12 10:00 - 11:00 UTC | Webinar
Being an entrepreneur is a journey and building a business can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process. Having the support of an experienced entrepreneur who has walked the path before and understands the landscape can be the beacon of light you need to see things clearly.
On December 12, we’re hosting three women for a Fireside Chat to share how mentorship has played a role in their personal and professional growth:

Michelle Guillet is the Founder & CEO of Electric Parasol, a fractional operation, business management, and virtual assistance company with a creative edge.
Salli Carter is the CEO of Carter Business Coaching & Consulting, where she empowers women entrepreneurs to navigate change and achieve exponential growth.
Kaitlyn McConnell is the Skills Development and Mentoring Program Manager at WeBC, where she has connected thousands of women with mentors.

Whether you are looking to expand your network, connect and gain advice from a group of like-minded women entrepreneurs, or are wanting a personalized focus on your business, there are mentoring programs to fit your needs.
Join us to ask your questions and learn about the impact mentorship can have on your business growth!
This session will be offered in English with optional closed captioning in French.
Thursday, December 12 | 10am to 11am PT | Free Virtual Fireside Chat
Facilitator: Dawn McCooey, Workshop Facilitator, WeBC
Panelists:

Kaitlyn McConnell, Skills Development and Mentoring Program Manager, WeBC
Michelle Guillet, Founder and CEO, Electric Parasol
Salli Carter, CEO, Carter Business Coaching & Consulting

Register Here >>>

PARO Foodpreneur BIZCamp
2024-10-03 10:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
This is a tailored online Business Planning Camp offered to existing food business owners of various maturity levels. It is designed to provide participants with the tools they need to start, grow or improve their food business. This virtual course consists of ten 3-hr workshops, expert presenters, scale-up planning, homework and exercises.
The program starts Oct 3rd and runs Thursdays from 10am to 1:00pm PT through Dec 5th 2024.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Monday, Sept 16 at 11:59pm.
For more information, please contact deborah@we-bc.ca or prosperbc@paro.ca

International Trade: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
2024-12-04 10:00 - 11:00 UTC | Webinar
Are you looking to grow your business outside of BC?
The international market presents growth opportunities, yet it is also dynamic and complex, which can make it challenging for entrepreneurs to navigate.
On December 4, we’re hosting Export Navigator to discuss how women business owners can navigate international markets and explore how to approach sales and negotiations. We’ll explore tips and considerations for all types of businesses that are looking to sell internationally, with specific examples for exporting agri-food products.
Using a gender-specific lens, we’ll talk about:

Cultural considerations during negotiations
Tips for closing the deal as a woman in international markets
Practical skills and how to build a supportive network

This session is designed for those who are already exporting and those that are curious about exporting. We look forward to you joining!
Wednesday, December 4 | 10am to 11am PT | Free Virtual WeCafé
Our WeCafés are always free and open to everyone!
Facilitator: Archana Samtani Singhania, Business Advisor, WeBC
Panelist:

Raeanne Anderson, Advisor, Export Navigator
Chelsea Sang, Head of Advisory Services, Export Navigator

Register Here >>>

CPTPP Unlocked: Empowering SMEs for Global Success in the Pacific
2024-11-26 14:00 - 17:30 (America/Vancouver) | Vancouver Convention Centre, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Join us for CPTPP Unlocked: Empowering SMEs for Global Success in the Pacific on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the Vancouver Convention Centre. This business event is designed to equip small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the tools to harness the benefits of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a trade bloc involving Canada and 11 other countries in the Indo-Pacific. Participants will enjoy insightful panels, plus valuable in-person networking opportunities with senior trade officials, business leaders, and key representatives from CPTPP member countries, all aimed at unlocking new market opportunities for global success.
In-Person Participation: Kindly register by completing this form.
Virtual Participation: To register, please complete this Webex form.
In Person RSVP Deadline: Thursday, November 14, 2024

Food Business Planning Workshop | Northern BC
2024-11-25 09:00 - 2024-11-26 16:00 UTC | British Columbia
The Food Business Planning program is tailored to assist food processors in learning, developing, and strategically expanding their businesses. It focuses on identifying key challenges and factors that hinder growth while enhancing the ability to scale through improved business management skills.

Better, Not Bitter Summit
2024-11-21 15:00 - 18:00 UTC | Segal Hall SFU Vancouver, 500 Granville Street, Vancouver, BC, V6C 1W6, Canada
The Better Not Bitter Summit 2024 is a transformative, one-day experience designed to inspire, empower, and ignite action. Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, advocate, or change-seeker, this summit is an opportunity to connect with our vibrant community and support a great cause.
This year, they will be raising funds for InspireHealth Supportive Cancer Care, 100% of funds will go to the InspireHealth enabling them to continue their impactful work in the community. Your support will help ensure that vital resources and support systems remain accessible to those who need them most.
Register Here>>>

CANWCC | Financially Literate AF!
2024-11-20 13:00 - 17:00 UTC | Virtual
We’re thrilled to announce Financially Literate AF!, our inaugural online financial conference happening on November 20th from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM EST. This action-packed event will offer attendees hands-on workshops designed to level up their financial know-how and give them practical tools to manage their business with confidence.
This free event is open to all CanWCC community members, and everyone is welcome to join, so feel free to share this link (https://links.canwcc.ca/3YcnYey) with anyone who may be interested in attending.

We Grow Together Greater Victoria
2024-11-19 17:00 - 19:00 UTC | Esquimalt Gorge Park & Pavilion, 1070 Tillicum Road, Esquimalt, BC
On November 19, WeBC and The Forum invite you to celebrate the incredible contributions of women entrepreneurs in BC and beyond!
With festivities spanning 144 countries, Women’s Entrepreneurship Day is all about connection and support. Join us to hear from inspiring local women, meet fellow women entrepreneurs and share experiences. Plus, visit our partner showcase to discover valuable resources that can help you on your journey.
Let’s gather to honour the achievements of women and support one another in this vibrant community.
This event is free and open to everyone but space is limited!
Join us >>>

Celebrate and Elevate: Building Resilience on Women’s Entrepreneurship Day
2024-11-19 13:00 - 14:00 UTC | Webinar
In honour of Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, we’re coming together to celebrate the incredible strides women have made in business while equipping you with the resilience to continue forging ahead!
On November 19, join us for an empowering session focused on helping women build resilience and foster a positive mindset in the face of business challenges. This interactive session will provide you with practical strategies to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship with confidence and strength.
Join us to explore:

Thought-provoking questions to help you move past mental blocks
Techniques for developing a problem-solving mindset on your business journey
Ways to recognize and embrace your unique strengths as a leader
Tips for breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps to maintain focus and productivity

Let’s celebrate how far women have come and gain the tools to keep pushing forward!
Tuesday, November 19 | 1pm to 2pm PT | Free Virtual WeCafé
WeCafés are always free and open to everyone!
Host: Paris Gaudet, WeBC Board Chair
Facilitator: Dawn McCooey, WeBC Workshop Facilitator

Register Here >>>

Starting to Export - All things Operations, Customs, and Logistics
2024-11-14 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual
​Do the words customs, 3PL, logistics, and manufacturers overwhelm you? In this webinar, we’ll provide an overview of building your international operations plan including the different modes of freight, such as air, sea, and land, how to choose a manufacturing partner, and how to handle custom procedures and documentation.
​​This is the third of five webinars that Startup Canada will host as part of the UPS Women Exporters Program. These webinars are designed for early stage women entrepreneurs and will walk through the tools and resources to get your business export ready.

Starting to Export - All things Operations, Customs, and Logistics | UPS WEP
2024-11-14 10:00 - 11:00 UTC | Virtual
This is the third of five webinars that Startup Canada will host as part of the UPS Women Exporters Program. These webinars are designed for early-stage women entrepreneurs and will walk through the tools and resources to get your business export-ready. Each webinar will feature both later-stage entrepreneurs and industry expert guest speakers and will suggest several resources to get you started in your export journey.
​Event Description
​Do the words customs, 3PL, logistics, and manufacturers overwhelm you? In this webinar, we’ll provide an overview of building your international operations plan including the different modes of freight, such as air, sea, and land, how to choose a manufacturing partner, and how to handle custom procedures and documentation.
​Who is this webinar for?
​Early-stage women identifying entrepreneurs who are looking to begin exporting their products or have just started to export to new markets.
​Partners
​The Women Exporters Program is powered by Startup Canada and co-presented by UPS.
Register Here>>>

2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards Digital Gala
2024-11-13 18:00 - 23:30 UTC | Virtual
The Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards presented by Pow Wow Pitch recognize and celebrate excellence and outstanding impact in Indigenous entrepreneurship.

Join for the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards on November 13th at 6 PM ET as we celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous-owned businesses across Turtle Island for their entrepreneurial perseverance, growth, impact and example as true Indigenous icons of our generation.
Hosted by Pow Wow Pitch Founder Sunshine Tenasco and featuring a special performance to honour all nominees and applicants, the Digital Gala features eight heartfelt presentations of the 2024 Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards.

Register Free

Crafting Your Customers' Journey
2024-11-13 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual
Join us to unravel the dynamics of the customer experience journey and learn how to seamlessly align marketing, sales, and customer service strategies. Learn how to create cohesive customer experiences that drive business growth.
​​This is the fourth and final webinar Startup Canada will host, as part of the Startup Women 2024 program. These webinars aim to support the business development of women-identifying entrepreneurs and give them the tools and know-how to navigate the early stages of their entrepreneurial journey.

PARO Foodpreneur Stage 2 BIZCamp | Program Start Date
2024-11-12 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual
Are you an entrepreneur in the food and beverage space (“foodpreneur”)? Are you ready to take your food manufacturing company and brand to the next level? Then this FREE six-week BIZCAMP may be perfect for you.
Foodpreneur Stage 2 has a marketing focus, and is delivered by Farm Food Drink. The syllabus is as follows:

Session 1: Brand & Marketing Planning
Session 2: Market Research & Product Review
Session 3: Sales Planning & Forecasting
Session 4: Budgeting & Tracking Metrics
Session 5: Digital Marketing
Session 6: Marketing Implementation

Here’s what you can expect to discover:

The core steps for effective branding and developing a marketing plan
Effective choices for sales (goals) and marketing channels
How to plan your digital marketing campaigns and track results for ongoing success
Ways to prioritize, plan, and cost out your marketing budget

PLUS: Receive peer interaction, templates, how-to guides, and checklists.
PARO clients can apply for the course through www.myparopath.ca .
Other interested foodpreneurs should contact ProsperBC@paro.ca for more information.

Food Business Planning Workshop | Creston
2024-11-12 09:00 - 2024-11-13 16:00 UTC | Creston & District Community Complex (Creston Erickson Room), 312 19 Ave N, Creston, BC, Canada

The Forum E-Series presented by RBC
2024-11-12 | Virtual
Be inspired. Make life-changing connections. Level up your entrepreneurship skills.
E-Series is an intensive program for self-identifying women, non-binary, and trans-femme entrepreneurs that want an all encompassing education in business and entrepreneurship. It offers a deep dive into the skills you’ll need to take your business to the next level, and covers the breadth of topics you need to build a resilient business – from mindset, marketing, sales, systems, team building, financial capital, money management, operations, and more. This program is thoughtfully designed for both early- and intermediate-stage business owners, as we know your needs shift as your stage of business evolves.
Over 9 days of live virtual sessions, you’ll connect with a community of peers. You’ll attend live seminars where you can ask questions and get personalized support from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts. You’ll also receive additional pre-recorded video-based learning materials on Thinkific so you can dig into some subjects on your own time.
Leave feeling energized, full of actionable ideas, and be championed by a community of women who want to open doors for one another.
E-Series runs from November 12 -28, with live virtual sessions on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays of each week.
Registration is now open until October 31.
Learn more or register >>>

Privacy and Your Business: Benefit from the OPC’s Business Advisory Services for PIPEDA Compliance
2024-11-07 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Vancouver) | Virtual
In today’s digital age, safeguarding personal information is not just good practice; it’s essential for business growth and success.
​The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC)’s Business Advisory Directorate provides information to help businesses comply with PIPEDA and better protect the privacy of Canadians, their clients, and customers.
For more information, check out our webpage: https://www.priv.gc.ca/en/about-the-opc/what-we-do/advisory-services-businesses/.

Mastering TikTok for Business Growth
2024-11-07 10:00 - 11:00 UTC | Webinar
Are you curious if you can use TikTok to grow your business? Depending on your experience with the platform, you may think TikTok is just for teens, or that you have to dance or sing to be popular. Maybe you’re fed up with creating TikTok content that falls flat.
On November 7, WeBC is excited to host the TikTok Coach, Samantha Vlasceanu, for a fireside chat to cut through the noise and help you build your TikTok game from the ground up with a strategy that actually works.
Samantha is dedicated to helping brands thrive in a world where authenticity is key. She partners with forward-thinking businesses—marketing agencies, coaches, entrepreneurs, and national brands—to build impactful TikTok strategies that amplify brand presence and drive engagement.
In this session, she’ll help you build your TikTok game from the ground up with a strategy that actually works. Samantha will show you how to make content that converts, attract leads and sales, and finally make social media fun again. You’ll learn to crack TikTok’s algorithm (it’s not the same as Reels or Shorts), create scroll-stopping videos, and master the art of selling without feeling ‘salesy.’
Join us to hear from Samantha and ask your questions about using TikTok to grow your business!
Thursday, November 7 | 10am to 11am PT | Free Virtual Fireside Chat
Facilitator: Andrea Jacob, WeBC Business Advisor
Panelist: Samantha Vlasceanu, The TikTok Coach

Register Here >>>
