Entrepreneurship

YWCA Halifax’s entrepreneurship programs support new and existing businesses with one-on-one coaching, business plan training, mentoring and digital support services across the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Explore the YWCA Halifax Entrepreneurship Hub’s Business Directory! All included businesses are owned and operated by women and gender diverse entrepreneurs who graduated a YWCA entrepreneurship program.

Are you looking for a business coach to take you to that next step on your business journey? Learn more about each entrepreneurship program below and how you can take the first step to starting your own business!

Questions? Please Contact: entrepreneurshiphub@ywcahalifax.com

Program Opportunities & Information

PowerUp Ready

⏱ 2 hrs/week for 10 Weeks 📍 Online


The PowerUp Ready program offers a business training for women entrepreneurs ready to start or grow their businesses. Accepted participants will attend a free, intensive ten-week program, in addition to one-to-one learning provided by an assigned business coach. Upon program completion, graduates will have a developed business plan ready to take to financial institutions, potential investors and business support organisations.

Eligibility Requirements:
For people who already have a business or might want to start one and need help writing a business plan and financial and sales forecasting.
Program outline:

You will have access to workshops and training on the following topics:

  • Receive training and support on how to write a Business Plan

    • Develop your business’ unique value proposition
    • Developing your business pitch
  • Learn about the business tools and strategies to run and grow a business

    • Digital strategies and adoptions
    • Business Model Canvas
    • Business Operations
  • Receive training and support around creating Marketing and Financial plans

    • Financials includes pricing, forecasting, cash flow
    • Sales and promoting your business
    • Market Research & Strategy

EOI/registration form:
Next Cohort starts in May 2026. Registration form link
Program contact info:
Email: entrepreneurshiphub@ywcahalifax.com

PowerUp Explore

⏱ 2 Sessions/week for 2 Weeks 📍 Online


PowerUp Explore addresses distinct gaps in accessible services/training offering women “discovery” training. This program is perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs who are exploring the idea of self-employment. Participants will take part in interactive assessments and training sessions with Business Advisors to get them started on their journey to entrepreneurship.

Eligibility Requirements:
For people who are looking to understand self-employment and if it’s the right fit for them.
Program outline:

A few things you will learn:

  • What is Self-Employment and Am I Ready For It?
  • How to Build a MVP (Minimal Viable Product)
  • Financial Considerations and Personal Budgets

EOI/registration form:
Next Cohort starts in May 2026. Registration form link
Program contact info:
Email: entrepreneurshiphub@ywcahalifax.com

Flourish Fund

⏱ Jan, May, Sep/Year 📍 Online


The YWCA Flourish Fund Loan Program provides accessible, inclusive financial support designed to support women and gender-diverse entrepreneurs grow strong, sustainable businesses. At YWCA Halifax, we break down financial barriers so businesses can flourish with confidence and purpose. To date, the Flourish Fund has supported numerous entrepreneurs who have successfully leveraged the funding to strengthen, expand, and flourish their businesses.

Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants must be current or alumni members of the YWCA Entrepreneurship Hub (Business Planning Program, PowerUp Ready, Business Builders).
Program outline:

The YWCA Flourish Fund Loan Program fuels your entrepreneurial journey with flexible, accessible funding designed to support your business grow and thrive.

What we offer:

  1. Flexible Loan Options: Tailored loan packages with zero interest and easy repayment terms, designed to cater to the specific needs of women and gender diverse entrepreneurs.
  2. Guidance and Mentorship: Receive personalized guidance and mentorship from professionals, empowering you to navigate the loan application process with confidence.
  3. Networking Opportunities: Gain access to a dynamic community of women and gender diverse entrepreneurs for collaboration, learning, and mutual growth.

EOI/registration form:
Flourish Fund applications open quarterly in January, May, and September each year. Registration form link
Program contact info:
Email: entrepreneurshiphub@ywcahalifax.com

Our Entrepreneurship Network

Explore the YWCA Halifax Entrepreneurship Hub’s Business Directory! All included businesses are owned and operated by women and gender diverse entrepreneurs who graduated a YWCA entrepreneurship program.

Explore the Directory >

Join the YWCA Halifax Entrepreneurship Network

Connect with a diverse community of current and aspiring women entrepreneurs.

Access free coaching, business skills, development, networking opportunities and more.

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