If you run a women‑owned business in Alberta and feel stretched between daily tasks and long‑term planning, the BOLD Leadership Program could help. The program is delivered by Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE). It focuses on building leadership skills. You will also learn about planning for growth. Another focus is strengthening your digital presence. The BOLD program does not provide cash funding. It is open now and is designed for established businesses that want to scale.
The BOLD Leadership Program is a leadership and business development program for women entrepreneurs in Alberta. Instead of giving a grant, it offers training, peer learning, and expert support. The goal is to help you lead with confidence and grow your business in a sustainable way.
Key features include:
The program is delivered online, so women across Alberta can join.
Before you apply, check that your business meets all the requirements. AWE uses these to make sure participants are at a similar stage.
You must:
The program is best for professional services and other businesses focused on growth. It is not meant for early‑stage startups.
The application is straightforward but competitive. AWE looks for businesses that are ready to grow. Owners must be able to commit time and energy.
Cohort start dates and deadlines can change during the year. Always check the official program page for the latest intake schedule.
If you want to compare leadership programs with options that offer funding, using GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter by province and business stage.
The BOLD Leadership Program is not a grant. It does not provide direct cash funding to your business.
Because this is a skills and leadership program, many women combine it with separate Alberta or federal business grants. These grants can help cover operations, hiring, or training.
Applying too early
Businesses with less than $100,000 in revenue do not qualify. Early‑stage founders should look for startup supports instead.
Treating it like a grant application
This program is about leadership growth, not financial need or project budgets.
Underestimating the time commitment
You are expected to take part and not just attend sessions.
Ignoring digital strategy questions
Digital presence and planning are important parts of the program.
Q: Is the BOLD Leadership Program a grant?
No. It is a leadership and business development program. It does not offer direct financial funding.
Q: Who is eligible for the BOLD Leadership Program?
Women entrepreneurs in Alberta with at least $100,000 in annual revenue, one year in business, and staff or contractors.
Q: How long is the BOLD Leadership Program?
Program length and time commitments change by cohort. AWE provides exact timelines during each intake.
Q: Does the program help with digital strategy?
Yes. Building a digital presence and planning are key parts of the program.
Q: Can I combine this program with grants?
Yes. Many participants use leadership programs along with provincial or federal grants and financing options.
GrantHub tracks many active grant and support programs across Canada — including leadership training and funding you can combine with programs like BOLD.
The BOLD Leadership Program could be a good fit if your Alberta business is past the startup phase and you want to become a stronger leader. If you are also looking for grants, training funds, or wage subsidies to help your business grow, GrantHub can help you find programs that match your business needs.
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