Investing in women makes sense

This weekend as a SheEO activator, I spent my time exploring and reading proposals from Canadian, women-owned ventures from across Canada.?There were 26 ventures in total and we were asked to select a maximum of ten to move forward to the final.

Not an easy task, I might add – as the ventures were as diverse as the women who submitted them - but there was one common feature, many were aimed at improving the environment – be it reducing the amount of plastic that ends up in landfill and educating ourselves to be better consumers as well.

It was heartening to read these proposals and gives you hope that the next generation is on it and are determined to reduce our carbon footprint and create a better world for us all – one that is equitable, fair and green.

Most were young, talented women and frankly quite impressive with their ideas, their education and their drive to succeed.?Some of the projects, to be honest, I don’t totally understand how they work, but they had come up with ideas beyond my imagination.

That’s what I love about being part of the SheEO movement – it’s innovative, creative and supports women in their drive to succeed while tackling world issues – like climate change, food insecurity and poverty.??It’s the whole deal.

Kudos to Vicki Saunders for coming up with this brilliant approach to helping women entrepreneurs secure the necessary funds to grow their businesses.?In the seven years since she started, the program now operates in Canada, US, Australia, New Zealand and the UK.??

There are 680 activators in Canada alone and 1,600+ globally.??Each activator donates $1,100 (can be paid monthly) which is then pulled together to make a large fund from which to financially support the chosen ventures.?But it is not just financial support that is provided.?

Ventures also make requests for help in terms of connections, knowledge and expertise and the activators are only happy to share. ?Plus I did some shopping after reading some of the proposals!

And it’s not a question of dividing the funds available equally between each venture selected.?Once chosen, the women embark on a retreat and through facilitated discussion and connecting with one another, they mutually determine the amount each venture is to receive.

It’s truly about women helping women to succeed.?The other neat aspect is you get to see future ideas coming into fruition.?

If you are interested in becoming an activator, check out www.sheeo.world because not only do you help other women, but you learn a lot too with the connections you make and the educational sessions you can attend.

It’s a win-win for all involved.