WeBC

Free WeBC Business Loan Info Session
2025-11-18 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-11-25 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-12-02 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-12-09 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-12-16 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-12-23 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-12-30 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-01-06 12:00 - 13:00 UTC and 3 more dates | 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 >>>

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 >>>

FREE Starting a Business Info Session | Part 2: How to Make Your Business Official
2025-11-19 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-12-03 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-12-17 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-12-31 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-01-14 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-01-28 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.

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 >>>

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>>>

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>>>

FREE Starting a Business Info Session | Part 1: How to Write a Business Plan
2025-11-26 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-12-10 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-01-07 12:00 - 13:00, 2026-01-21 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.

E-Commerce Logistics for Exporters: Postal, Courier, and Beyond
2025-11-27 10:00 - 11:30 (America/Denver) | Virtual
Join Canada Post, Shipnerd and Export Navigator’s Export Advisors for a practical 90-minute session on shipping smarter. Learn how postal and courier options compare for SMEs, what recent de minimis changes mean for cross-border sales, and explore market realities in the U.S., E.U., and Asia. Hear practical strategies from B.C. businesses that have successfully adapted through postal strikes, border disruptions, and market shifts.
Whether you’re just starting to export or looking to optimize your current shipping approach, this session will deliver practical insights to help you make smarter logistics decisions in your e-commerce strategy.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

Understand the differences between postal and courier services for e-commerce exports.
Learn how Canada Post supports businesses in reaching the U.S., E.U., and Asia.
Identify best practices for returns, pricing, and scaling logistics as your business grows.
Recognize when to transition from postal shipping to 3PL or warehouse models.
Gain practical insights from exporters who have adapted their logistics strategies in real time.

Register Here>>>

Purpose in Action: Social Enterprise & Storytelling Series
2026-01-15 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Denver) | Webinar
Social entrepreneurship offers a powerful way to address essential needs like affordable housing and food security, while also nurturing a sense of belonging. By building businesses that foster community and connection, you can help ensure everyone feels included and valued—and, as a business owner, turn these possibilities into real, lasting change for your community.
WeBC is partnering with Purppl, a team that helps purpose-driven organizations build sustainable impact, to bring you a series that will inspire, equip, and connect you on your journey to making a difference.
This series is ideal for anyone who is new to social enterprise or eager to deepen their organization’s impact and communications. You’ll gain practical strategies, frameworks, and tools as we focus on two key areas:

Session 1 | Social Enterprise 101: Discover what social enterprise truly means, why it matters, and how it can be used to build community wealth and long-term resilience. You’ll see how purpose-driven business models can address real needs and reignite hope in your community.
Session 2 | Impact Storytelling: Learn how to translate your impact goals and lived experience into stories that connect with funders, customers, and your community. This session will help you share your journey authentically, inspiring trust, support, and action.

Join us to explore how you can bring positive change to your business and those you serve!
January 15 and 22 | 10am to 11am PT | Virtual
Series cost: $50.00; free for WeBC Loan clients and Vancity Women Entrepreneur Program clients
Open to everyone!

Register Here >>>

WeMB SCW | Strength in Community Workshops 2026
2026-01-27 08:00 - 17:00, 2026-01-27 09:30 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles)
By participating in SCW, you’ll:

Gain self-confidence through personal discovery
Reframe perceived personal limitations as growth opportunities
Connect with other like-minded individuals with similar experiences
Learn easy and practical skills for building an ecosystem, business development, paving the way for strategic growth and expansion
Get practical and vital information on entrepreneurial mental health

The Workshops:

Strength in Community | Own Your Space explores how to work in alignment with your strengths that support your resilience, setting goals that motivate you, and overcoming those niggling doubts that get in the way of accomplishing your dreams.
Strength in Community | Say It Out Loud teaches you how to refine your pitch, communicate effectively, and build a compelling brand voice that resonates with your audience.
Strength in Community | Burnout, Boundaries, Play, and Rest explores how to have a better relationship with money, negotiation, and your mental health.

Next Co-Hort Starts Jan 27th

Tuesday Sessions: January 27, February 3, and February 10 | 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. CT
Thursday Sessions: January 29, February 5, and February 12 | 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. CT

https://www.wemb.ca/training-and-workshops/strength-in-community-workshops-program

Momentum Makers: Building Growth Through Community
2026-01-27 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Denver) | Rustic Reel Brewing, 760 Vaughan Avenue, Kelowna, BC, Canada
Come spend your Tuesday morning with a community of women business owners who believe growth happens together!

WeBC invites you to join a gathering designed for genuine conversation, new introductions, and the kind of peer support that helps you move forward, whether you’re just getting started or scaling up.
You’ll connect with local women who’ve built momentum through collaboration, hear a few short stories to spark ideas, and meet peers you’ll want to follow up with. We’ll also introduce WeBC’s new Pollinator Program, a simple, ongoing way to keep these connections alive through local circles and peer‑led support. (Curious? Join us to learn how it works and how you can be part of it.)
You’ll also explore resources from local organizations at our partner info table—your chance to learn who’s here to support your next step.
Coffee and pastries will be served. This event is free and open to everyone, but space is limited. Reserve your seat today!
Hosted and moderated by: Shauna Harper, CEO of WeBC
Featuring local voices, including:

Susi Foerg, Owner of Rustic Reel Brewing and WeBC Client
More speakers to be announced

Presented in partnership with the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures Central Okanagan, and the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission
This event is sponsored by the Scotiabank Women Initiative and funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy.
