Access to funding remains one of the biggest challenges facing women entrepreneurs in Canada. While talent, innovation, and ambition are not in short supply, knowing where to find funding and how to apply strategically can make the difference between survival and sustainable growth. Many founders miss out not because their businesses lack potential, but because they’re unsure how to position their story, financials, and strategy in a way funders understand.

To support women navigating this process, Women of Rubies is hosting a Funding Masterclass focused on helping women entrepreneurs prepare for grants and other financial opportunities. The session will be facilitated by Sola Oluwole, an experienced entrepreneur and development finance specialist who has supported women founders in navigating funding readiness and access to capital.

As we step into 2026, several grants and funding opportunities for women-owned businesses are currently open or accepting rolling applications. Below is a curated list of funding options women entrepreneurs should explore, whether you’re just getting started or ready to scale.

Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant 

The Her Agenda Breakthrough Grant is a $5,000 grant designed to support women entrepreneurs who are actively building and scaling their businesses.

• Grant amount: $5,000

• Who can apply: Women entrepreneurs with an existing business

• Requirements: Applicants must be subscribed to the Her Agenda newsletter

This grant is ideal for founders who are beyond the idea stage and need funding to unlock their next phase of growth,  whether for marketing, operations, or product development.

Amber Grant for Women (Rolling Monthly Grant)

The Amber Grant is one of the most accessible funding opportunities for women-owned businesses in Canada and the U.S.

• Grant amount: $10,000 awarded every month

• Additional opportunity: Monthly winners are eligible for a $50,000 annual grant

• Who can apply: Women-owned businesses (minimum 50% ownership)

• Deadline: Rolling — apply before the end of each month

Because this grant runs monthly, it’s a strong option for women entrepreneurs who may not be selected the first time but want to apply consistently throughout the year.

Visa “She’s Next” Grant Program 

Visa’s She’s Next Grant Program supports women entrepreneurs with funding and mentorship. In Canada, the program is delivered in partnership with York University’s YSpace.

• Grant amount: $10,000 CAD

• Additional support: 4-month mentorship and business acceleration program

Eligibility includes:

• Women-owned businesses (at least 50%)

• Operating in Canada

• Minimum revenue threshold applies

This program is well-suited for founders who want both capital and strategic guidance to strengthen their business in 2026.

Zensurance Small Business Grant

The Zensurance Small Business Grant is a $25,000 funding opportunity for Canadian small businesses, including women-led and women-owned ventures that are actively operating and registered in Canada (though applicants from Quebec, Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories are generally excluded from eligibility). To participate, businesses must complete an online application, provide a brief explanation of how they would use the funds, and follow specific participation steps outlined by Zensurance. A shortlist of finalists is selected, and the grant winner will receive $25,000 in funding, with additional smaller grants awarded to runner-ups.

• Grant amount: $25,000

• Who can apply: Canadian small business owners (operating, registered, and with annual revenue within eligibility criteria)

• What’s required: Complete application, compelling business story, and participation steps (such as following Zensurance’s social channels)

• Status: Application currently open for the most recent cycle (with winner to be announced January 27, 2026)

This grant can be a significant boost for small business operations, marketing, equipment investments, or scaling initiatives, and is a great opportunity to share with your audience in addition to the women-focused funding options above.

Government of Canada Funding for Women Entrepreneurs

Through the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES), the Government of Canada continues to invest in women-led businesses across the country. While not all opportunities are direct grants, funding streams include:

• Non-repayable grants

• Micro-loans and growth loans

• Capacity-building and ecosystem programs

• Sector-specific and regional funding opportunities

Application periods vary depending on the delivery organization, so founders are encouraged to check federal and regional partners regularly for new intakes.

These programs are particularly valuable for women entrepreneurs seeking long-term growth support, financial readiness, and credibility.

Preparing to Win Funding in 2026

Accessing funding is not only about finding the right opportunity,  it’s about preparation. Understanding what funders look for, how to communicate your impact, and how to present your financial readiness can significantly improve your chances of success.

That’s why our Funding Masterclass is designed to help women entrepreneurs move from uncertainty to clarity, and from preparation to opportunity.