WeBC

FREE Starting a Business Info Session | Part 1: How to Write a Business Plan
2025-11-26 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-11-12 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
2025-11-25 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-11-18 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-11-11 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-11-04 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-28 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-21 12:00 - 13:00 UTC | 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 >>>

Mitigating Risk, Maximizing Trade: Strategies in Trade Finance for Global Engagement
2025-11-25 08:00 - 10:30 (America/Denver) | RBC – Royal Centre Vancouver, 1055 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6C 2R7, Canada
The Canada China Business Council (CCBC) is pleased to host a morning event titled “Mitigating Risk, Maximizing Trade: Strategies in Trade Finance for Global Engagement”, on November 25 in Vancouver.
This event will bring together financial experts, business leaders, and exporters to explore the shifting trans-pacific trade landscape, China’s role in Canada’s diversification strategy, and the practical tools companies can leverage to manage risk and expand internationally.
As global markets evolve, Canadian businesses are reassessing their export strategies. Participants will hear fresh economic perspectives, receive insights into trade finance and foreign exchange, and explore real-world examples of how companies are navigating change.
Whether you’re a seasoned exporter or just starting to explore new markets, take advantage of this opportunity to gain actionable guidance and valuable connections to help strengthen your business in China and beyond. Register Here>>>

ExpoPlaza Latina 2025 – The Future of Workforce
2025-11-21 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Denver) | Vancouver Convention Centre, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, Canada
We’re proud to partner with ExpoPlaza Latina 2025 – The Future of Workforce, connecting business leaders from Canada and Latin America to drive innovation and collaboration.
Join us on November 21 in Vancouver for a one-day international business and innovation forum that explores how technology, diversity, and collaboration are transforming the way we work, lead, and grow.
The event brings together entrepreneurs, SMEs, investors, policymakers, and corporate leaders from across Canada and Latin America.
Inspired by the vibrant energy of the Latin American plaza, ExpoPlaza Latina is a space for networking, inspiration, and action — where ideas meet opportunity.
This year’s edition will also mark a powerful launch for “The Road to Web Summit 2026”, positioning British Columbia as a bridge between Canada and Latin America’s innovation ecosystems. Register Here>>>

Invest in Her, Shape the Future: A Celebration of Women’s Entrepreneurship
2025-11-19 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Denver) | Webinar
Join WeBC , The Forum, and WEDO on Women’s Entrepreneurship Day as we celebrate the ripple effect of investing in women entrepreneurs! This year’s theme, Invest in Her, shines a spotlight on the opportunity and impact that comes from supporting women-led businesses, not just for individual founders, but for communities and Canada’s economic future.
Entrepreneurship can be a lonely road: late nights, tough decisions, and moments of doubt. In this energizing session, we’ll zoom out and look at the big picture: what women are accomplishing across Canada, and why your journey matters.
You’ll hear from three inspiring leaders:
• Shauna Harper (WeBC) will share highlights from WeBC’s impact report, giving you the data and stories that show the true value of investing in women entrepreneurs.
• Amy Englemark (WEDO) will spotlight how national community-building efforts are creating greater collaboration, powerful partnerships, access to capital and community connection.
• Kirsten Koppang Telford (The Forum) will speak to the power of mentorship and how growth happens when women come together in supportive communities, reminding us that we’re never alone on this journey.
Whether you’re seeking inspiration, connection, or the confidence to advocate for yourself and others, you’ll leave inspired to ask—and answer—‘How can I use my business to create change and help more women succeed?’
Celebrate your achievements, get pumped up, and join a movement that’s shaping Canada’s future!
Wednesday, November 19 | 2pm PT | Free Virtual Celebration
Open to everyone!

Register Here >>>

FREE Starting a Business Info Session | Part 2: How to Make Your Business Official
2025-11-19 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-11-05 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-22 12:00 - 13:00 UTC | 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.

Women's Entrepreneurship Day: Leading with Purpose & Perseverance
2025-11-19 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Denver) | Community Futures North Okanagan, 3105 33 Street, Vernon, British Columbia, V1T 9P7, Canada
We’re celebrating Women’s Entrepreneurship Day!

In partnership with WeBC, Community Futures North Okanagan is bringing “Women’s Entrepreneurship Day: Leading with Purpose & Perseverance” to life.
Our panel of four local female entrepreneurs will discuss their experiences and challenges as small business owners and operators.
Women’s Entrepreneurship Day panel:

Alison Ludditt of Room Collection
Stephanie Tambellini of Tambellini Design Studio
Sarah Helgason of Two Sparrows Pizza + Catering
Mayla Janzen of the Polson Artisan Market

This event will be focused on passion, community connection, impact, and the perseverance of local business women.
There will be light refreshments served and time for Q&A with the panelists.
This event will take place in the Kalamalka Room, 3rd floor at Community Futures North Okanagan.
We recognize that this event was made possible by funding from the Government of Canada’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy.
Together, we will expand our impact and support women entrepreneurs across B.C.
Register Here >>>

Invest in Her Summit - Vancouver, BC
2025-11-18 11:00 - 18:00 (America/Denver) | BDC Business Centre, 1133 Melville Street, Suite 1500, Vancouver, BC, V6E 4E5, Canada
WeBC is a proud sponsor of WEDO Canada Summits across Canada!
Join fellow women entrepreneurs at WEDO’s first-ever Vancouver Summit! This is a unique opportunity to connect with peers, be inspired by powerful talks, learn from industry leaders, and engage in exciting networking opportunities.
Be part of a powerful community where real stories, expert insights, and meaningful connections come together to support your growth. Join us in Vancouver for the Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization (WEDO) Canada Summit 2025 – Vancouver Edition, a high-impact gathering in celebration of Women’s Entrepreneurship Day (WED), a global movement that empowers, celebrates, and supports women in business and future-preneurs.
We’re thrilled to bring WEDO to Vancouver for the first time, celebrating women’s entrepreneurship on the West Coast with fresh energy, strong community, and bold ideas.
This year’s theme, Invest in Her, is a rallying call to close the gender funding gap and create sustainable pathways for women entrepreneurs to thrive. From capital and mentorship to market access and strategic growth, we’ll explore what it truly means to invest in women, and why it’s one of the smartest economic decisions we can make.
Come and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, gain practical tools, and take the next step in your business journey.
REGISTER TODAY >>>

Invest in Her Summit - Vancouver Island, BC
2025-11-14 10:00 - 18:00 (America/Denver) | TIGH-NA-MARA RESORT AND SPA, 1155 Resort Dr,, Parksville, BC, British Columbia, V9P 2E3, Canada
WeBC is a proud sponsor of WEDO Canada Summits across Canada!
Join fellow women entrepreneurs at WEDO’s Vancouver Island Summit! This is a unique opportunity to connect with peers, be inspired by powerful talks, learn from industry leaders, and engage in exciting networking opportunities.
Be part of a powerful community where real stories, expert insights, and meaningful connections come together to support your growth. Join us on Vancouver Island for the Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization (WEDO) Canada Summit 2025 – Vancouver Island Edition, a high-impact gathering in celebration of Women’s Entrepreneurship Day (WED), a global movement that empowers, celebrates, and supports women in business and future-preneurs.
This year’s theme, Invest in Her, is a rallying call to close the gender funding gap and create sustainable pathways for women entrepreneurs to thrive. From capital and mentorship to market access and strategic growth, we’ll explore what it truly means to invest in women, and why it’s one of the smartest economic decisions we can make.
Come and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, gain practical tools, and take the next step in your business journey.
REGISTER TODAY >>>

2025 WBE Canada National Conference
2025-11-12 08:00 - 2025-11-13 17:00 UTC | 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.

Spotting Market Opportunities
2025-11-06 09:30 - 10:30 UTC | 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.

Neurodiversity at Work: Strategies for Entrepreneurial Success
2025-11-05 10:00 - 11:00 UTC | 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 >>>

AI Made Simple: Using ChatGPT to Drive Your Business Forward
2025-10-31 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-10-24 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-10-17 10:00 - 11:00 UTC | 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 >>>

Fireside Chat: Everyday Legal Smarts for Entrepreneurs
2025-10-30 12:00 - 13:00 UTC | 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 >>>

The Forum E-Series Registration
2025-10-30 08:00 - 17:00 UTC | 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 >>>

From Clicks to Clients: Digital Marketing Strategies for Entrepreneurs
2025-10-23 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-10-16 10:00 - 11:30 UTC | 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>>>

Small Businesses Innovation Expo
2025-10-22 10:00 - 17:00 UTC | 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<<<

Pollinator Program Launch: A Virtual Debut
2025-10-16 12:00 - 12:30 UTC | 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 >>>
