Breaking Barriers – Women Entrepreneurs and Access to Capital

Breaking Barriers: Women Entrepreneurs and Access to Capital

Presented by:

GGFL LLP, Women’s Business Network, and Invest Ottawa

As part of International Women’s Day, join us for a transformative event dedicated to addressing the inequalities women entrepreneurs face in accessing capital to grow their businesses.

Jennifer Baldwin, Principal at GGFL LLP will moderate this inspiring and actionable session as we:

• Shed light on the problem and the barriers women business owners face when raising funds.
• Empower attendees with solutions and offer practical strategies and steps to overcome biases and improve your chances of securing the funding your business needs.

Meet the Panelists

Layla Darwish – Commercial Lender, BMO

With years of experience in commercial banking, Layla brings a wealth of knowledge on how women entrepreneurs can better position themselves for success in securing loans and credit.

Julie McClure – Entrepreneur, Venture Capitalist and Founder of DoGood Ventures

A trailblazer in venture capital, Julie will share her unique perspective on accessing VC funding, navigating investment challenges, and unlocking growth opportunities.

Paula Hopkins and Sara Perron, Invest Ottawa’s Entrepreneurship Program

Paula Hopkins and Sara Perron from Invest Ottawa will share their firsthand experiences as entrepreneurs navigating the challenges of raising capital and highlight how Invest Ottawa supports the ambitions of new and growing women-led businesses.

Why Attend?

Whether you’re a woman entrepreneur seeking to grow your business, an advocate for gender equity, or simply passionate about supporting women leaders, this event will equip you with:

• Insights into breaking down systemic barriers.
• Tools to position your business for success in commercial lending, venture capital, and alternative funding.
• Connections with like-minded professionals and advocates.

Let’s work together to close the funding gap for women entrepreneurs and build a more inclusive, equitable financial landscape.

Register Today!

Space is limited – don’t miss this opportunity to empower your business and celebrate the incredible achievements of women in business. You can register here.