Program offers support and services for women entrepreneurs

Posted on November 6, 2025 by Ryan Dahlman

Shaynee Modien

Shaunavon Standard Local Journalism Initiative

The concept of women in Canada taking control of their financial futures, particularly in business, is a relatively recent development – and one that cannot be taken for granted. It wasn’t until 1974, with the passage of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, that women were finally allowed to open bank accounts, apply for credit, or commit to a mortgage without a male co-signer.

As women began to take control of their financial futures, support groups for entrepreneurs started to form. WESK, or Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan, a non-profit organization established in 1995, provides support to women entrepreneurs in the province by offering services and resources to help start, develop, and grow a business.

Janelle Lansdall, Rural Ambassador for WESK, was in Gull Lake on October 23 for a presentation at Blended Souls Coffee and Boutique.

Lansdall says that while many events have previously been held in Regina or Saskatoon, WESK is now working with entrepreneurs in smaller communities.

“WESK has always wanted to reach out to everyone in the province of Saskatchewan and is excited to be able to get out to smaller towns and rural areas with this new event series ‘Rural WESK Connect’ with help from Conexus Credit Union to support this venture,” stated Lansdall.

She said sessions like the one in Gull Lake typically follow a similar format.

“We like to highlight a business or venue and then bring in a couple of other women-owned businesses with presenters or instructors for the scheduled nights,”she explained.

According to Lansdall, WESK was established because women were unable to secure their own business loans. Since its inception, the organization has provided lending activity for its women business members, offering additional resources, membership advisory, and support for events and peer groups.

“The Connect events are free and there are so many more events listed on their webpage that can support women-led businesses,” said Lansdall. “Plus, their membership is incredibly affordable for business advising service and access to legal, accounting and finance professionals. You also don’t need to be a member to attend events, receive lending or gain support from the organization.”

The events are not exclusive, Lansdall emphasized.

“Not just women can come out for our events,” she commented. “Anyone can come out, especially if they are wanting to start a business or have one already.”

She noted that some women attend events with a big idea and want to do some research before jumping in, while others come out because they are new to town or want to meet more people and businesses in their area.

“Some ladies come away from an event like this with a new collaboration or someone else to talk to,” she said. “Sometimes running a small business can be very lonely… It’s about getting connections via grants and organizational support, and bonding together.”

While the event in Gull Lake was one of WESK’s first rural events, Lansdall mentioned that there has been interest in holding an event in Shaunavon. Another event is scheduled to take place in the city of Swift Current on November 20 at Raccolto. Those interested in learning more about upcoming events, or are interested in becoming a member, can visit WESK.ca for further details.