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New provincial funding looks to boost opportunities for women

Aug 7, 2018 | 1:34 PM

EDMONTON – The Ministry of Status of Women is supporting 32 projects in the hopes of helping immigrant entrepreneurs, empower Indigenous communities and make life better for women in Alberta.

The province is providing $850,000 to non-profit organizations to kick-start or expand innovative projects that empower women in leadership roles, increase economic security for their families and prevent gender-based violence.

Danielle Larivee, Minister of Status of Women, says when women succeed, Alberta succeeds.

“Through partnerships with frontline organizations, we’re helping to mentor budding entrepreneurs, giving new Canadian families a leg up and making Alberta safer for women and girls,” Larivee added.

A release from the province states one-time grants of up to $50,000 will support new projects or expand successful programs into new parts of the province.

The wide variety of projects are focused include mentorship programs in business and technology and skills training to overcome gender-based and domestic violence.

The Multicultural Health Brokers Cooperative is receiving a $50,000 grant to help immigrant and refugee women run micro-enterprises in their own communities. The John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights will use $50,000 to expand a project aimed at newcomers and vulnerable women.

Another $25,000 grant will help the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women host an Indigenous Women Justice Forum later this fall, helping participate navigate the justice system and advocate for better outcomes.

Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women CEO Rachelle Venne says this grant will bring together strong and resilient Indigenous women to create positive change.

“Indigenous women are disproportionately represented in the justice system, and opportunities like this help provide tools to help families, workers and communities find better paths forward.”

This is the second year of the Status of Women Community Grant Program, which supported 34 organizations last year.