On Tuesday, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau announced Farm Credit Canada's new Women Entrepreneur Program.

“Our government recognizes and supports the important contributions made by women in the continued growth of the agriculture and food sector," said Bibeau. "By providing women entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed as leaders in Canadian agriculture, we are supporting a competitive industry that helps grow the economy, supports our rural communities and creates good middle class jobs.”

The program includes access to capital through the Women Entrepreneur Loan, enhanced learning events, partnerships with other groups, and delivery of online content.

FCC has committed $500 million over three years for the Women Entrepreneur Loan.

As part of the loan, borrowers can have a portion of their fees waived and are encouraged to reinvest these savings into both personal and professional development that best suits their individual and business needs.

Bibeau made the announcement at the Advancing Women in Agriculture West 2019 conference in Calgary.