Canada’s economic future will be defined by who gets access to opportunity. As the federal government advances the Canada Strong agenda—focused on economic resilience, domestic capacity, innovation, and sovereign supply chains—there is a clear national opportunity to accelerate the growth of women-owned businesses as a strategic economic priority.

EBITDA rarely erodes all at once.Instead, margin erosion often begins quietly inside procurement: fragmented suppliers, inconsistent pricing, unmanaged contracts, weak purchasing discipline and siloed data. These inefficiencies spread silently through organizations for years before leadership teams fully recognize the damage.

Genumark is a Toronto-based branded merchandise distributor with over 40 years in the industry, working with organizations across Canada and the US to help them build stronger brands through merchandise that reflects their values, not just their logo

Natalia Smalyuk started NBAU (Not Business As Usual) Consulting in January 2021 with a mandate to help leaders navigate complex challenges, prepare for high-stakes moments and communicate under pressure. Basically, to support organizations large and small in finding solutions to the kinds of challenges that can disrupt seemingly smooth day-to-day operations. Or, as Natalia likes to say, wicked messes. 

In April, WBE Canada’s President, Dr. Georgette Zinaty travelled to Hong Kong as part of the Canadian contingent taking part in the 2026 Women Power Forum. In her keynote speech “Why Not You”, Dr. Zinaty shared the importance of collaboration vs competition as women come together to drive the future, moving from local success to global economic power.

Stories from the “COVID Years” featuring Canadian women business owners often highlight pivots, resilience, downsizing, and reinvention - sometimes even closure. Rarely do they include the word “start-up.”

Recognizing our WBE Canada Community and those who are making news, achieving milestones and shining a light on Canada’s outstanding WBE Canada Certified women businesses, Corporate Members and Partners.

Gannon/Blackburn Electric Inc. has been proudly serving the construction industry in the National Capital Region for over 35 years. GBE is owned and operated by Karlyn Gannon and family, specializing in commercial electrical installations, mechanical and general contracting services.

Founded in 1966 INPS (International Name Plate Supplies Ltd.) is one of Canada’s largest graphics manufacturers. INPS remains a family-owned business owned by Pamela Humann and her son David.

My name is Natalie Gilson, and together with Melissa Weber, I co-lead Pisces Oceans Inc., a consultancy supporting ocean-focused projects around the globe with strategy, management, and communications.