On June 20th, 2018, The Bank of Montreal (BMO) announced its plan to provide $3 billion in capital to female entrepreneurs across Canada over the next three years. Prior to this announcement, BMO joined Carleton University in releasing a report on female entrepreneurs which identified access to capital and credit as the critical factor for their success. BMO spokesman said this money will be used to support female entrepreneurship and promote employment not only by providing bank service but also investing in educational platforms studying innovation and entrepreneurship, and sponsoring seminars on female entrepreneurs.
BMO will be rolling out the following initiatives in the coming months:
Building an online resource center for female entrepreneurs to provide financial support at various stages of their business – offering tools, tips and templates across a wide range of topics. Topics will include how to position companies most effectively for financing, cash flow management, etc.
Sponsoring the Startup Canada’s Day on the Hill and organizing a special seminar for female entrepreneurs in this event.