This episode explores Canada’s gender gap in entrepreneurship with Isabelle Hudon, President and CEO of the Business Development Bank of Canada, and tackles the systemic barriers women face—especially in accessing capital. 

Drawing from BDL’s new report, Women Entrepreneurs: Canada’s Biggest Missed Business Opportunity, the discussion reveals why women still own just 18% of Canadian businesses despite a $2 billion government push to double that by 2025. 

“Access to capital is probably one of the top three reasons why we don't see as many women picking entrepreneurship as a career versus men,” says Hudon in the episode. She goes on to share how initiatives like the BDC's $500 million Thrive Platform are driving change.

The discussion emphasizes the need for bold ambition, policy support, and societal change to foster inclusive entrepreneurship and economic growth. 

Key takeaways:

• Canada has 100,000 fewer entrepreneurs than it did 20 years ago, according to a BDC study.
• Women remain significantly underrepresented in entrepreneurship.
• Economic cost of gender disparity in entrepreneurship estimated at $180 billion.
• Access to capital is more difficult for women entrepreneurs.
• Women-owned businesses concentrated in limited sectors like healthcare and retail.
• Lack of women representation in investment decision-making processes.

Resources:

BDL report Women Entrepreneurs: Canada’s Biggest Missed Business Opportunity

BDL’s Business Conditions Terminal for Women in Business

BDC article How Do Women Impact the Canadian Economy?

BDC’s $500 Million Thrive Platform for Women

BDC’s hub for Women Entrepreneurs offering finance, advice & free resources