Empower

About Empower

Empower is a free business skills training program designed by students at the University of Calgary. Empower's purpose is to support immigrant and refugee women in developing business skills and providing funding needed to successfully start their own business. Empower is separated into two sub-teams: Empower and Empower Expansion.

Empower Expansion is focused on expanding the mentorship program to new regions, particularly in South and Central America. The initiative is in its early stages, with efforts underway to connect with universities and potential partners, starting with countries like Colombia and Guatemala. This expansion seeks to offer the same entrepreneurial support to low socioeconomic class women across borders, empowering them to create successful businesses in their communities.

Mission

Empower’s mission is to help immigrant and refugee women learn fundamental business skills and establish successful sole proprietorships.

Vision

Empower’s vision is to be a key player in assisting immigrant women to achieve their goal of starting their own small business within the next 5 years.

  • Empower offers free in-person business lessons taught by university professors, business professionals, and local entrepreneurs, alongside monetary grants to kick-start your business. Participants are paired with student mentors from the University of Calgary, to guide and assist their learning, research, and ideation. Additionally, Empower provides constant networking opportunities to help participants build valuable connections and lasting mentorships aimed at creating ongoing relationships.

  • Duration: Mid January to Early April, on a weekly basis

    Time: Saturdays at 10am - 1:00pm

    Location: In-person at the University of Calgary (215 Haskayne Pl NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4V8)

  • To become a part of Empower’s Training Program, you must meet the following criteria:

    • Are over the age of 18

    • Identify as a Woman

    • Are an Immigrant or Refugee

    • Are able to attend our weekly in-person sessions from January to March

Previous Pitch Competition Winners

  • 1st Place

    Rajashree, and her business “BizzGrow”

  • 2nd Place

    Laura, and her business “Laura’s Box”

  • 3rd Place

    Nishtha, and her business “Chai & Chaat”

  • 4th Place

    Tolu, and her business in the Cleaning Industry

Our Partners

  • Woman's Centre of Calgary

  • CIWA

  • Making Changes Association

  • Immigrant Services Calgary

  • Calgary Catholic Immigration Society

  • Centre for Newcomers