Beyond International Women’s Day: sustaining support of Indigenous women entrepreneurs

As we move beyond International Women’s Day, a global moment dedicated to honouring the achievements of women and advocating for gender equity, it remains crucial to reflect on the ongoing challenges and opportunities that marginalized women face—particularly Indigenous women entrepreneurs. Amid the festivities and applause taking place throughout the month lies a pressing concern: what will become of programs that empower and promote the economic independence of Indigenous women? I have been privileged to be part of such a program. Two years ago, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), the national representative of a network of more than 50 Indigenous lending institutions in Canada, entrusted me to help increase its lending to Indigenous women by 50 per cent by 2025. On March 8, 2022, we launched an Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting Indigenous women on their entrepreneurial journeys. With nearly $30-million in funding, our members hired 25 business support officers to deliver the program locally and regionally. They disbursed more than 330 microloans totaling more than $6-million to Indigenous women business owners. Magnolia Perron is the Indigenous women and youth program manager at the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association. Photograph courtesy of Magnolia Perron Take Emilie McKinney, for example, the owner of Anishinaabe Bimishimo, which produces cones for jingle dresses and has expanded to a manufacturer, supplier, and designer. McKinney has not only created jobs for local band members, but has also become a mentor for our program. Then there's Lia Wilson, owner of Wa7 T'u7 Wa7 Wellness, who, through the program, purchased a horse trailer and launched her equine-facilitated wellness practice.All too often, Indigenous women encounter barriers with mainstream financial institutions, which dismiss their businesses as too risky or unconventional. This program was conceived as a response to systemic injustices, a beacon of hope for those who have been told "no" far too many times. The program was created by the Indigenous lending network whose members are deeply connected to their communities, and it is overseen by NACCA. Prior to the program, less than 30 per cent of the businesses supported by the lending network were owned by Indigenous women. Now, we are at 39 per cent. These accomplishments are not mere statistics; they represent tangible progress towards economic empowerment and community development, breaking cycles of financial instability, food insecurity, and gender-based violence while fostering self-sufficiency and resilience. Now, though, we stand on the brink of discontinuation, with no long-term, sustainable commitment from the government. I can’t help but feel a sense of urgency and apprehension. Then I reflect on my own grandmother, a resilient entrepreneur who defied societal expectations and thrived despite limited opportunities. Her strength, determination, and pride in operating her own hair-styling and clothing retail businesses continue to inspire me.And I am further reminded of how far we've advanced since my grandmother started her business, and why the program has been so successful. For one, financial support: we have offered women microloans and grants as well as ongoing investment in training, capacity building, and mentorship. Additionally, we have prioritized the training and capacity development of the business support officers, many of whom are Indigenous women themselves. Third, we have promoted a fundamental shift in organizational culture towards equity and inclusion. We have developed gender-based analysis training to address unconscious biases in decision-making processes and everyday interactions. Finally, we have allies who amplify the voices that too often go unheard and unrecognized, who promote us when we’re not even in the room, and recognize the imperative of having more women in leadership roles. Having individuals like Small Business Minister Rechie Valdez continue to advocate for the women entrepreneurship ecosystem within the government is essential. I recently had the privilege to sit on a panel with her, along with other leaders in this space, to talk about the current state of affairs and strategizing for a sustainable future. As we transition back to our daily routines and the excitement fades, let’s remember that transformational change is only possible when the right resources are invested. Let's champion initiatives like ours, vital for economic empowerment and gender equity. In the face of imminent cuts, let's reaffirm our commitment to support Indigenous women entrepreneurs, recognizing their immense contributions and advocating for their continued upliftment. Let’s invest in them now, so they can inspire future generations. Magnolia Perron is the Indigenous women and youth program manager at the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association. She is from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, and a proud member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte. The Hill Times

Beyond International Women’s Day: sustaining support of Indigenous women entrepreneurs

As we transition back to our daily routines and the excitement fades, let’s remember that transformational change is only possible when the right resources are invested.

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Beyond International Women’s Day: sustaining support of Indigenous women entrepreneurs

As we transition back to our daily routines and the excitement fades, let’s remember that transformational change is only possible when the right resources are invested.

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