Group aims to advance businesswoman

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In 1991, Economic Development for Canadian Aboriginal Women was established with a mandate to promote the advancement of Aboriginal women in economic and business development opportunities in Canada.

The organization is a non-profit organization with a goal of providing Aboriginal women with better access and support initiating opportunities. It also helps women overcome hurdles in existing businesses.

The first of many strategies of EDCAW includes laying a solid foundation in order to be a continuing service to Canadian Aboriginal women. EDCAW organizers believe the key to sustainable development is women working together to help each other succeed and to restore the quality of life of Aboriginal people.

In order to do this, Economic Development for Canadian Aboriginal Women proposes to create a database with up-to-date detailed profiles of Canadian Aboriginal women currently in business. The database will be maintained on a permanent basis by EDCAW and will be a valuable tool to networking, allowing immediate access to other Aboriginal women.

Approximately 600 survey questionnaires will be sent out to Aboriginal businesswoman as well as 300 non-government assisted businesses. There will also be a sampling of at least 300 Aboriginal business women who have not been successful, to help EDCAW better understand the economic development environment as it pertains to Aboriginal women.

As well, telephone interviews will be conducted in August and September. If you would like to be a part of this database project, fax, mail or call EDCAW with your name, telephone number, and mailing address at:

EDCAW

396 Cooper Street, Suite 204

Ottawa, ON K2P 2H7

Telephone (613) 563-0998

FAX (613) 563-1473