Canadian women are increasingly concerned about the future, particularly when it comes to their personal well-being and financial stability. A recent Leger study, commissioned by Canada Powered by Women, indicates a significant shift in the priorities of engaged women — a shift with profound implications for upcoming elections. For the first time, CPW asked engaged women which policy positions would influence their voting decisions, and the results offer crucial insights for policymakers across the country.
A growing force for change
Unsurprisingly, the number of engaged Canadian women continues to grow. An engaged woman is tuned in to the news around her, to her governments and to her community. The study, conducted in January 2025, shows a remarkable 7.5 percentage point increase in the size of this group compared to 2024, with it now representing 42 per cent, or 6.7M women in Canada. These women are not passive observers; they are actively participating in shaping our nation’s future, particularly in conversations around energy and the interconnectedness between a strong industry and economic prosperity.
Beyond the ballot box: Connecting policy priorities to Canadian energy security
While engaged women remain committed to a strong energy industry, economic prosperity, energy security and environmental protection (as evidenced by our Spring 2024 omnibus), our 2025 research reveals a nuanced understanding of how these issues intersect with women’s daily lives. When asked which policy areas would directly influence their vote, health care (90 per cent), the economy and jobs (80 per cent), and taxes/housing affordability (75 per cent each) topped the list.
This isn’t a departure from engaged women’s core values; it’s a recognition that a healthy and secure Canadian economy – one fueled by a robust Canadian energy sector – is the foundation upon which these critical priorities rest. Affordable and reliable energy (67 per cent) ranked highly as well, further underscoring this connection. Without a stable economy driven by secure and reliable Canadian energy, access to quality healthcare, job creation and tax relief become increasingly challenging.
We know Canadian women are increasingly engaged in shaping the national conversation, especially when it comes to economic stability and policies impacting their lives.
Canada’s opportunity: Securing our future
The uncertain trade future with the U.S. only further emphasizes the need for diversification, increased interprovincial trade and strategic investment in critical infrastructure. Canada’s prosperity, including strengthening essential public services like health care and education, hinges on harnessing our natural resources through growth, technology and innovation while responsibly meeting energy needs at home and abroad. As conversations about our economic and energy future continue to happen at every level of government, we know engaged women are looking for alignment with what they’re hearing from policymakers and the decisions being made. Canadian women aren’t afraid to walk the talk, and they want to know their governments aren’t afraid to either.
A call to action:
Our research shows the immediate need for a more focused dialogue from governments with engaged women. This is a demographic ready to act. Almost all of the women polled – an overwhelming 97 per cent – indicated they would vote in a federal election held today. This is higher on average than Canadian’s overall.
Engaged women recognize energy’s role as an economic driver. By connecting the dots between energy policy and their top-of-mind concerns – health care, jobs, taxes and housing – policymakers can empower women to become even stronger advocates for a secure and prosperous future. This includes developing targeted communication strategies that resonate with their priorities and creating inclusive platforms for ongoing dialogue.
By recognizing the vital role of engaged women in shaping Canada’s energy future, we can build a stronger, more prosperous nation for all.
Learn more at https://www.canadapoweredbywomen.ca/
