These days, it seems like every 24 hours, there’s a new set of challenges put upon the small business community. From the threat of tariffs to economic uncertainty, it’s more crucial than ever to support the entrepreneurs who drive our local economies. On top of macroeconomic factors, women-owned small businesses, in particular, continue to face hurdles in securing funding and resources. Despite making up a significant portion of the small business landscape, women entrepreneurs often struggle to access the capital and networks necessary for long-term success.
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Recognizing this, Mastercard and Pier Five have launched the latest edition of their Small Business Fund, a program designed to empower women small business owners with the financial backing and mentorship they need to thrive. Now in its third year, ten women-owned small businesses across Canada have been awarded $10,000 CAD each, along with a Priceless experience in Toronto, where they gained invaluable insights from industry experts, connected with peers, and expanded their supportive communities.
Beyond the funding, the Mastercard x Pier Five Small Business Fund highlights the importance of mentorship, networking, and access to resources—key pillars that help small businesses scale. The initiative creates an opportunity for small business owners to share experiences, learn from successful business leaders, and develop strategies to overcome common barriers. Previous recipients have spanned industries from sustainable fashion to tech-driven accessibility solutions, proving that innovation flourishes when entrepreneurs are given the right support.
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One of the latest recipients, ImaginAble Solutions, is a social impact company that creates assistive technology to improve the quality of life for people with hand disabilities. Another, Lesley Hampton, is an inclusive luxury and Indigenous fashion brand championing diverse beauty and representation in the fashion industry. These businesses—and others like them—demonstrate the innovative ways in which women entrepreneurs are shaping the future.
As small businesses continue to navigate an unpredictable economic landscape, initiatives like this not only provide access to capital but also equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and connections to sustain long-term growth.Â
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“The Mastercard x Pier Five Small Business Fund empowers talented small business owners with resources and mentorship to help them succeed well into the future,” said Nishant Raina, Vice President, Small and Medium Enterprises, Mastercard Canada. “More than just a financial grant, it’s a catalyst for growth and innovation, and an opportunity to showcase the future of small business in Canada.”
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By investing in small businesses today, Mastercard and Pier Five are helping to shape a more inclusive, prosperous future for Canada’s economy. When small businesses succeed, communities thrive, jobs are created, and new ideas emerge. Mastercard’s ongoing commitment to fostering growth for small businesses through resources, tools, and innovation ensures that entrepreneurs have the foundation they need to scale their businesses and impact the economy in meaningful ways.
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Learn more about the Small Business Fund and join the Mastercard Small Business community to access valuable tools, solutions, and resources from Mastercard and its network of partners.Â
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This story is a partnered editorial between Mastercard Canada and GLORY Media.Â
