FREE Starting a Business Info Session | Part 1: How to Write a Business Plan
2025-09-17 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-01 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-15 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-29 12:00 - 13:00 UTC | Webinar
Join us to get inspired and excited about starting a business in BC!
You have a business idea—congratulations! Now it’s time to get it down on paper.
A business plan can help you test your ideas, make decisions, minimize your risk, get funding and so much more.
In SBIS Part 1, we use the document “How to Write an Effective Business Plan” to break down business planning into 10 steps.
You will learn about:

How to structure your business plan and where you can go for industry-specific samples
What to include in each section and how to think through them
How each part of your business plan works together to create a roadmap for your business.

Register free >>>
About WeBC Starting a Business Info Sessions
If you think you’re ready to start a business, we encourage you to participate in our FREE virtual Starting a Business Information Sessions (SBIS).
There are lots of steps to starting a business, so these sessions will provide tips and resources as you work through each aspect of starting a business.
SBIS is offered each week on Wednesday at noon, and we alternate between parts 1 and 2 from week to week. These FREE virtual sessions are held every Wednesday from 12pm to 1pm Pacific Time. While we recommend you participate in both parts, you may register for one or both sessions.

Free WeBC Business Loan Info Session
2025-09-23 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-09-30 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-07 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-14 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-21 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-28 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-11-04 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-11-11 12:00 - 13:00 | 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 >>>

From Idea to Impact: Funding Innovation Through SR&ED
2025-09-24 10:00 - 11:00 | Webinar
Imagine having extra capital to invest in your next big idea—whether it’s developing a new product, improving a process, or exploring cutting-edge technology. The Government of Canada offers a powerful way to make that happen through the Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) Tax Incentive Program, which provides over $4.2 billion annually in tax credits to businesses conducting R&D.
This isn’t just another government program—it’s a game-changing opportunity to reinvest in your business, reduce financial risk, and accelerate innovation.
On September 24, join our expert panelist as they break down how this program works and how your business can benefit. You’ll learn:

What qualifies as research and development (R&D) under the SR&ED program (it’s more broad than you might think!)
How to access tax credits and maximize your claim
Common misconceptions and how to avoid missed opportunities

Whether you’re a startup, a growing company, or an established business, this session will help you tap into funding that can drive your next breakthrough.
Wednesday, September 24 | 10am to 11am PT | Free Virtual WeCafé
Free and open to everyone!

Register Here >>>

FREE Starting a Business Info Session | Part 2: How to Make Your Business Official
2025-09-24 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-08 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-22 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-11-05 12:00 - 13:00 | Webinar
Join us to get inspired and excited about starting a business in BC!
How do I name and register my business? Where can I get funding? What kind of licenses do I need?
In SBIS Part 2, we uncover how to make your business official.
You will learn about:

The pros and cons of different types of business structures
The steps to name and register your business
Where to find information about taxes, licenses and permits
What to consider when developing your online presence
Sources of funding for your business

Register free >>>
About WeBC Starting a Business Info Sessions
If you think you’re ready to start a business, we encourage you to participate in our FREE virtual Starting a Business Information Sessions (SBIS).
There are lots of steps to starting a business, so these sessions will provide tips and resources as you work through each aspect of starting a business.
SBIS is offered each week on Wednesday at noon, and we alternate between parts 1 and 2 from week to week. These FREE virtual sessions are held every Wednesday from 12pm to 1pm Pacific Time. While we recommend you participate in both parts, you may register for one or both sessions.

From Clicks to Clients: Digital Marketing Strategies for Entrepreneurs
2025-10-09 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-10-16 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-10-23 10:00 - 11:30 | Webinar
Are you offering something amazing—but struggling to get people to buy?
In today’s digital landscape, it’s not enough to have a great product or service. You need a strategic offer and sales process that speaks directly to your audience and inspires action. That’s why WeBC is excited to welcome back Samantha Vlasceanu for a powerful new workshop series: “From Clicks to Clients: Digital Marketing Strategies for Entrepreneurs.”
This series is designed for entrepreneurs who want to build brand authority, attract qualified leads, and increase sales—without spending hours trying to figure out what works. You’ll explore practical tools that help promote your product or service more effectively—like free webinars, downloadable checklists, and ebooks.
These tools aren’t the final offer. They’re the stepping stones that guide potential customers toward making a purchase. This series will show you how to choose the right ones and use them strategically to attract leads, grow your audience, and guide potential customers toward making a purchase.
Series Schedule
All sessions are on Thursdays, from 10am to 11:30am PT.

October 9 | High-Converting Workshop: Turning Free Viewers into Paying Customers
October 16 | Creating an Irresistible Offer (Part 1)
October 23 | Creating an Irresistible Offer (Part 2)

A recording will be available for 30 days after each live session.
Open to everyone.
Series cost: $80; free for WeBC Loan clients and Vancity Women Entrepreneur Program clients

Register Here>>>

Pollinator Program Launch: A Virtual Debut
2025-10-16 12:00 - 12:30 | Virtual
We’ve been building something beautiful—come see what it’s all about!
Over the past 30 years, WeBC has connected with thousands of women across the province—women who uplift others, spark ideas, and help their communities grow. And through all those conversations, one question kept coming up: How can we build more of a community?
We’ve been listening, dreaming, and building—and now, we’re ready to share something special.
Introducing the Pollinator Program: a new initiative designed to support women who naturally connect others, share resources, and help their communities flourish.
Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just beginning to explore what’s possible, this program is about weaving impact into what you already do—and growing together.
Join us for a 30-minute virtual launch event featuring:
🐝 Shauna Harper, CEO of WeBC, who will outline the program and why we were inspired to create it
🐝 Pauline Stevenson, our “Queen Bee” and long-time WeBC Regional Ambassador, who will share how you can get involved
After the launch, we’ll open the program intake and we’ll be looking for women in all regions of BC to join us. This is your chance to learn what the program is all about, ask questions, and discover how you or someone you know can get involved.
Everyone is welcome to join us for this program launch. We can’t wait to share this with you!
Click here to register >>>

AI Made Simple: Using ChatGPT to Drive Your Business Forward
2025-10-17 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-10-24 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-10-31 10:00 - 11:00 | Webinar
WeBC has partnered with Jennifer Hufnagel, a leading AI Educator from Hufnagel Consulting, to offer a fun and practical workshop series designed to demystify ChatGPT and help you understand how this powerful tool can work for you, no matter your tech level.
Why it matters:
AI isn’t coming; it’s already here. Whether you’re ready or not, generative AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming how we work, communicate, and compete. This series will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to embrace AI, reduce your workload, and focus on what matters most.
What you’ll learn:
Over three 1-hour sessions, you’ll gain a strong foundation in how to use ChatGPT strategically and effectively. You’ll leave with real-world skills you can put to use right away. You’ll learn how to:

Explain basic principles of AI
Write better, more effective prompts
Practice using ChatGPT live in-session
Discover ways to implement AI in your business or daily work immediately

This series also includes pre- and post-work and a live Ask Me Anything (AMA) session in December, your chance to check in, ask follow-up questions, and continue building your skills.

Series Schedule

October 17th, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
October 24th, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
October 31st, 2025 – 10:00am- 11:00am
AMA – December 5th, 2025: 10:00am – 11:00am

Open to everyone!

Register Here >>>

Small Businesses Innovation Expo
2025-10-22 10:00 - 17:00 | Kelowna Innovation Center, 460 Doyle Ave, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 0C2, Canada
We are excited to be exhibiting at the Small Business Innovation Expo on October 22.
The Small Business Innovation Expo (SBIE) is designed to engage with Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) about the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program, which supports innovation in defence and security.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about government funding opportunities, procurement processes, and collaboration potential tailored for innovative solutions not only in defence and security but also in other government sectors. This event gives a unique opportunity for SMEs to learn about government contracting, navigate regional resources and strengthen their business foundations in the Okanagan region.
Event Summary

Designed to link SMEs with federal resources, funding opportunities, and regional support
Focus on innovation pathways and growth potential for startups and established SMEs alike

Who Should Attend?

Businesses curious about federal contracting opportunities or innovation support
Startups looking for collaboration and engagement opportunities
Local economic development groups and procurement advisors

Featured Highlights

Panel Discussions with government and industry leaders exploring procurement trends and innovation drivers. Learn about federal procurement processes, funding mechanisms, collaboration strategies, and programs tailored for innovators
Exhibitor Showcases highlighting regional programs, business solutions, and community initiatives
Networking to build strategic connections and exchange ideas.

Get Tickets<<<

The Forum E-Series Registration
2025-10-30 08:00 - 17:00 | Virtual
Registration Now Open: The Forum E-Series presented by RBC
The Forum Entrepreneur Series (E-Series) presented by RBC is back for the fall. E-Series is an intensive program for self-identifying women, non-binary, and trans-femme entrepreneurs who want a comprehensive education in business and entrepreneurship.
E-Series runs from November 18 – December 4, with virtual sessions on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays of each week.
Registration is now open until October 30th.
Get Tickets Here >>>

Fireside Chat: Everyday Legal Smarts for Entrepreneurs
2025-10-30 12:00 - 13:00 | Webinar
Legal issues show up everywhere in business, but not every situation needs a lawyer (or a 30-page contract). In this practical, plain-language session, you’ll learn everyday strategies to navigate legal questions and manage risks with more clarity and confidence.
Join us for a candid conversation with Martine Boucher, serial entrepreneur, mentor, and co-founder of Simplex Legal. She’ll share real-world tools and frameworks to help you build your “legal radar” so you can make strong, informed decisions without needing a law degree.
We’ll explore:

How to use simple tools like recap emails or shared notes to capture key points of an agreement and build trust
A straightforward 5W framework to surface blind spots and ask the right questions before problems show up
Tips for deciding when to call a lawyer, and simple things you can do to reduce your legal fees when you do
Smart ways to use ChatGPT for legal awareness, including prompt examples and important limitations & considerations

Bring your questions and join us for a supportive, practical conversation designed for business owners who want to manage legal risks with confidence!
Wednesday, October 30 | 12pm to 1pm PT | Free Virtual Fireside Chat
Free and open to everyone!
This session will be offered in English with Closed Captioning available. A recording will be sent to all registrants after the session.
Facilitator: Cathy Burrell, WeBC Client Services Coordinator
Panelist: Martine Boucher, Serial Entrepreneur, Mentor, and Co-Founder of Simplex Legal

Register Here >>>

Neurodiversity at Work: Strategies for Entrepreneurial Success
2025-11-05 10:00 - 11:00 | Webinar
In everyday conversation, ADHD and neurodiversity are often described in terms of challenges—like distractibility, impulsivity, or difficulty with organization. And yes, these can be real aspects of living and working with a neurodiverse brain. But there’s another side to the story: neurodiverse entrepreneurs also possess remarkable strengths, such as creativity, resilience, hyper-focus, and the ability to think outside the box.
This WeCafé is all about recognizing both the realities and the “superpowers” of neurodiversity in business. Join Elizabeth Vieira-Richard, CEO of People Dynamics Inc. and internationally recognized Master Executive Coach and Master ADHD Coach, for an honest, supportive conversation about how ADHD and neurodiversity can be leveraged for entrepreneurial success.
In this free WeCafé, you’ll learn:

The make-up of neurodiversity
How the neurodiverse brain works
Exploring the strengths and challenges of ADHD for entrepreneurs
Strategies and tools for ADHD entrepreneurs to harness their unique abilities

Whether you’re navigating the ups and downs of ADHD yourself or want to better support neurodiverse team members, you’ll leave with practical tools and a fresh perspective on how neurodiversity can drive business success.
Wednesday, November 5 | 10am to 11am PT | Free Virtual WeCafé
Facilitator: Kelly Masson, WeBC Business Advisor
Panelist: Elizabeth Vieira-Richard, CEO & Owner, People Dynamics Inc.
Our WeCafés are always free and open to everyone!

Register Here >>>

Spotting Market Opportunities
2025-11-06 09:30 - 10:30 | Virtual
Join our friends at BC Food and beverage for their upcoming webinar on November 6th. They’ll be joined by guest speaker, Francis Parisien (Senior VP of NielsenIQ Canada), who will unveil the latest trends in grocery in Canada.
Canadian consumers are becoming less brand-centric and more focused on fulfilling specific needs. While they are buying more brands overall, their choices are increasingly driven by value and relevance rather than loyalty.
He will share how consumer brand choices are changing, their emerging needs and how that will impact small and medium sized businesses. Plus, get inspired with how manufacturers can effectively respond to these evolving dynamics.

2025 WBE Canada National Conference
2025-11-12 08:00 - 2025-11-13 17:00 | Delta Hotels by Marriott Airport & Conference Centre, 655 Dixon Rd, Etobicoke, ON, M9W 1J3, Canada
Save the date!
Our biggest event of the year, where we will bring together our corporate and government leaders, WBEs, and supplier diversity champions for two days of learning, networking, and business growth.
WBE Canada is the certifying council for women-owned businesses in Canada. We help women business owners access larger contracts with corporations & government agencies.
