NIWEE Ecosystem Structure

NIWEE is looking to bring together an exceptional group of people from different walks of life who share common interests and a common purpose. For some, their interest is to build a side hustle; for others, it's about learning from their peers or gaining a new perspective so they may achieve their dream. While for others, it's about passion and contributing knowledge and experience to help break down inequities and support women in building their economic well-being. 

There is no denying funding is important to entrepreneurs. Still, given our experience, we would argue that funding is available to those who create an attractive business model. Acquires the necessary knowledge and experience needed to overcome obstacles and challenges along their path to building a resilient business.  From our first group of NIWEE cohorts (2022), we have seen firsthand the courage of Indigenous women, Mothers and Grandmothers willing to make-battle for success and for improving the economic well-being of their family, community and nation.

We aim to create a collaborative ecosystem of different entities to drive meaningful outcomes at scale. No single organization on its own can do the heavy lifting required to remove roadblocks and reshape women entrepreneurs. Anyone can join as an ecosystem member, whether you are Indigenous or non-Indigenous.  We wish to draw together key actors and stakeholders that gravitate toward developing business ventures and innovation, including entrepreneurs, mentors, incubators, sources of talent such as universities, corporations, investors, technologists and artists and supporting services like startup savvy law and accounting firms.

We welcome Indigenous and non-Indigenous allies who are willing to contribute to the common good. People who place cooperation over competition; consensus over control; teamwork over hierarchy; and to connect with others and build networks.