Who is it for? Indigenous women, 51% owned / controlled who are actively managing the business in Kahnawake or the greater Montréal region 

What do you get? Up to $25,000 in financing + support 

What do you need to bring? Cash Equity 6.25%, a business plan, consent to credit check 

What is the first step? Fill out the client registration form 

In partnership with the National Aboriginal Capital Corporation (NACCA), Tewatohnhi’saktha delivers the Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs (IWE) Program to support Indigenous women who want to start or grow a business.  

The IWE Program provides up to $25,000 in financing to help turn your business idea into reality or take your existing business to the next level. This micro-loan includes a combined grant and loan, issued together as one financing package.  

Eligible applicants receive support throughout the application process and gain access to future workshops and training opportunities designed specifically for Indigenous women entrepreneurs. 

IWE Micro-Loan: 

• Up to $25,000 in financing (loan and grant are issued together)  
• Total project costs must be under $75,000 
• Minimum 6.25 % cash equity required from the applicant  
• Loan term up to 5 years maximum  

Program Objective 

The IWE Program aims to: 

• Increase the number of women accessing IFI loans to 50% by 2029; 
• Address some of the barriers facing Indigenous women entering business; 
• Level the playing field by specific gender targeted programming; 
• Increase the number of new women business start-ups and resulting employment; and 
•  Give Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) an Indigenous Women Entrepreneur Micro-Loan framework they can choose to deliver or customize.