As we mark Small Business Week in Canada, it's time to spotlight a powerful force reshaping our economy and communities: female-owned small businesses. These small enterprises are not only driving innovation and job creation, but they're also redefining what leadership, resilience, and inclusive growth look like in Canada's business landscape.
A growing economic engine
Women entrepreneurs are launching businesses at a faster rate than ever before. As of early 2025, 19.5% of all private sector businesses in Canada are majority-owned by women, up from 17.6% in 2024. This growth reflects a steady rise from 15.6% in 2017.1
Their impact is profound:
- Job creation: Female-owned small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) employ hundreds of thousands of Canadians and are significantly more likely to hire women across all employment levels.2
- Community investment: Women entrepreneurs often reinvest in their local communities, supporting causes from education to sustainability.2
- Innovation: Many female-led businesses are at the forefront of digital transformation, social enterprise and customer-centric design.2
Why insurance matters more than ever
At Gallagher, we see firsthand the unique challenges and opportunities female entrepreneurs face. From navigating funding gaps to balancing caregiving responsibilities, women business owners often operate with a heightened sense of risk and resilience.
That's where tailored insurance solutions come in:
- Customized coverage for home-based businesses, pop-up shops and hybrid work models
- Risk management support for scaling operations, hiring teams and expanding online
- Protection against disruption, whether from cyber threats, supply chain issues or unexpected events
Insurance isn't just about safeguarding assets — it's about empowering growth. When female entrepreneurs feel secure, they're more likely to take bold steps, innovate freely and build enduring legacies.
Building a more inclusive future
Backing female-owned small businesses isn't just smart for the economy — it's a commitment to equity. These business owners bring fresh perspectives, foster teamwork, and have a knack for understanding what customers really need. Plus, they're often the ones mentoring others, sparking positive change that lifts entire communities.
As insurers, partners and advocates, we have a role to play:
- Offer training on risk management and financial literacy.
- Design inclusive products that reflect the realities of modern entrepreneurship.
- Champion visibility by sharing success stories and amplifying female voices.
This Small Business Week, let's celebrate the women who are building Canada's future, one business at a time. Their courage, creativity and commitment deserve not just recognition, but real support.
Sources
1Judd, Patricia, Shivani Sood and Chris Johnston. "Analysis on Majority Women-Owned Businesses, First Quarter of 2025," Statistics Canada, updated 14 Jul 2025.
2"State of Women's Entrepreneurship in Canada 2025 Report: Executive Summary," Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, 3 Apr 2025. PDF file.