According to the Canadian Government, only 17% of Canadian small and medium-sized businesses are owned by women. This can be accredited to the fact that women face barriers to accessing mentors, financing, and networks needed for business start-ups and growth.  This March, in honour of International Women’s Day, CanadianSME Small Business Magazine sat down with Jeannette Sinclair, co-founder of Indig Design, Edmonton’s Indigenous Design Studio, to highlight her role as a female entrepreneur and discuss her journey.  Jeannette highlights her past experiences and the values t ..read more

In a recent dialogue with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Faye Pang, the Canada Country Manager for Xero, shared enlightening perspectives on Xero’s essential role within the Canadian SME landscape. Emphasizing Xero’s mission to simplify, smarten, and improve the lives of small businesses and their advisors globally, Faye Pang detailed the mutual benefits derived from Xero’s longstanding partnership with CanadianSME. This collaboration, particularly highlighted by Xero’s sponsorship of significant small business awards, underscores a shared commitment to fostering the growth and recogniti ..read more

Carey Calder stands as a beacon of innovation and advocacy in the realm of Indigenous business leadership and organizational development. She has amassed more than 15 years of executive management experience directly within Indigenous organizations.  Throughout her career, she has consistently been committed to empowering Indigenous communities and teams by cultivating inclusive work environments, which has guided her from Thunder Bay to Ottawa, the unceded territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin People.  Integrating an Indigenous Lens with Business Acumen  In her most recent end ..read more

As an Indigenous woman and devoted mother, I infuse my multi-disciplinary artistry with the rich tapestry of my heritage and life experiences. My creative journey has been illuminated in the pages of esteemed publications such as The Umbrella Magazine and SPark Magazine gracing both interiors and covers alike.  My vibrant murals adorn various spaces from the captivating Pops Ups at Zwicks Park to the offices of Mp Ryan Williams in Belleville. Noteworthy installations also embellish the walls of Harry J Clarke Public School and soon St. Theresa’s High School and Sir James Whitney.  Ad ..read more

In the bustling world of cosmetics and skincare, Tribalure Canada Inc. emerges as a unique player, wholly Indigenous-owned and rooted in a deep commitment to celebrating cultural heritage while promoting wholistic beauty. Leading this innovative endeavour are Angie Sarsons and Denyse Nadon, whose unwavering commitment to Indigenous communities and profound love for artistic expression come together to revolutionize beauty norms on a global scale. Discover the captivating journey and leadership philosophy of these two exceptional founders. Fostering Cultural Respect Tribalure deeply respects an ..read more

Although gratifying, the entrepreneurial journey is frequently marked by arduous obligations and a lack of clear demarcation between professional and personal spheres. The attainment of work-life balance is critical for the maintenance of enduring success and overall well-being. This article analyzes the importance that entrepreneurs place on work-life balance and investigates pragmatic approaches to achieving a harmonious balance between professional responsibilities and personal fulfillment.  The Value of Maintaining a Work-Life Balance Entrepreneurs encounter distinct stressors, such a ..read more

Southern Ontario is a thriving hub of innovation, and the impact of women-led enterprises cannot be overstated. Women entrepreneurs create economic growth across our province with a unique perspective and approach to business. Women-owned small businesses contribute to the diversity and inclusivity of our local economy, fostering a rich blend of ideas and services that benefit us all. I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative power of women entrepreneurs across southern Ontario. Their businesses create jobs, drive economic growth, and serve as role models for the next ..read more

March 8 has become a renowned day in the calendar year with awareness of and involvement in International Women’s Day growing every year. I see the day serving as an opportunity to take stock of everything we have achieved as a community. It’s a time to reflect, acknowledge, and celebrate the wins we’ve had.  In fact, we’ve seen green shoots upon green shoots emerge at pace in recent times, possible because of the commitment and tenacity of all women before us. As a sports enthusiast I can’t help but think about the FIFA Women’s World Cup which was held in Australia and New Zealand last y ..read more

Catherine Blackburn was born in Patuanak Saskatchewan and is a member of the English River First Nation (Denesųłiné). She is a multidisciplinary artist and jeweller, whose common themes address Canada’s colonial past that are often prompted by personal narratives. Her work grounds itself in the Indigenous feminine and is bound through the ancestral love that stitching suggests. Through stitchwork, she explores Indigenous sovereignty, decolonization and representation. Her work has exhibited in notable national and international exhibitions including: Radical Stitch, Àbadakone, Santa Fe Haute C ..read more

International Women’s Day is more than just a date to me – it serves as a tribute to all the pioneering women who have forged their paths and opened doors for others. Throughout my 35-year career at UPS, a typically male-dominated industry, I’ve seen women achieve remarkable milestones and secure positions at the top of our organization. As UPS Canada’s first female President, I can attest to this from personal experience. Much like these businesswomen, female entrepreneurs with their determination, tenacity, resilience, and innovative spirit have emerged as a driving force in the Canadian eco ..read more