As we mark International Women’s Day, I am reflecting on the remarkable women-led businesses strengthening Canada’s economy despite looming uncertainties.
The threat of tariffs creates instability for all entrepreneurs; for women founders, it exacerbates challenges they already face. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” calls us to collaborate and navigate these uncharted waters together—emerging stronger with resilient businesses that fortify Canada’s economy.
Futurpreneur’s commitment to women entrepreneurs is unwavering. Last fiscal year, 42% of businesses we supported through our loan with mentorship programs were women-led—far exceeding the national average. While we are proud of this achievement, we know there is more we can do to help them succeed.
To Accelerate Action in 2025, we are strengthening connections between women entrepreneurs by creating meaningful opportunities for networking, collaboration, and community engagement.
During times of economic uncertainty, it’s more important than ever that founders reach out to the community, peers, and mentors who stand ready to support and elevate them. The path forward may be challenging, but by working together, women entrepreneurs can navigate these difficulties and continue building innovative, resilient, thriving businesses.
We’re all in this together.
Karen Greve Young
Chief Executive Officer of Futurpreneur Canada
Karen Greve Young is the Chief Executive Officer of Futurpreneur Canada, Canada’s only national organization dedicated to supporting young entrepreneurs. Futurpreneur’s unique model combines funding, mentorship and start-up programs to fuel the success of thousands of young entrepreneurs in every Canadian province and territory.
Karen is an accomplished non-profit leader dedicated to fostering economic and social prosperity through new approaches and partnerships. Prior to joining Futurpreneur in 2018, Karen was the Vice President, Corporate Development & Partnerships at MaRS Discovery District, a global innovation hub based in Toronto. During her seven-year tenure, Karen led corporate strategy development, implementation and measurement, managed a global network of innovation partners, and oversaw community engagement including marketing, communications and events.
