Demand for financing and mentorship surges among B.C. women entrepreneurs
Lending rises 86 per cent and mentorship nearly 50 per cent as business owners look for support to grow
KELOWNA, BC, Oct. 13, 2026 /CNW/ -- Women entrepreneurs across British Columbia are seeking significantly more financing and business support as they manage higher costs, changing markets and new opportunities for growth.
As Canada approaches Small Business Week, new figures from WeBC's latest annual report show its business lending increased 86 per cent in 2025/26, while demand for mentorship climbed nearly 50 per cent.
WeBC is a federally funded not-for-profit that engages with women entrepreneurs in B.C. providing loans, mentorship, advisory services and skills training.
"Women entrepreneurs are a strong investment," said Shauna Harper, CEO of WeBC. "Our loan clients have an 82 per cent survival rate over the past five years, and our repayment rate is over 96 per cent. The numbers show that when women have access to the right financing and support, they build strong businesses."
Demand for business guidance is also rising as women entrepreneurs navigate growth and changing market conditions. The nearly 50 per cent increase in mentorship demand shows that women also want practical advice and experienced support as they make decisions about business growth.
"Getting a loan can help an entrepreneur take that next step, but financing on its own doesn't build a strong business," said Melanie Rupp, Senior Director of Loans and Advisory Services at WeBC. "Our role is to understand the business, help entrepreneurs prepare and make sure they have access to the support they need as they grow."
WeBC is available for comment during Small Business Week, a national celebration of entrepreneurship focused on helping businesses adapt, build momentum and prepare for new opportunities. Small Business Week runs October 19 – 25, 2026.
Women entrepreneurs can visit WeBC to learn more about financing, mentorship, training and business advisory services. WeBC's work to support women entrepreneurs across British Columbia is made possible in part through funding from PacifiCan and the Government of Canada's Women Entrepreneurship Strategy.
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
Chaunda Honkonen - Marketing and Communications Manager, WeBC, 250.868.3454 ext 104, [email protected]
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