Eligibility:

How do I qualify?

To be eligible applicants must:

* Be a 50.1% women-owned and led business

* Business is registered and located in the province of Alberta

* Have a minimum credit score of 650

* Contribute a minimum or have contributed a minimum of 25% owner equity on total project costs

* Contribute a minimum of 30% security on the loan. This amount differs depending on the size, risk, and purpose of the loan.

* Be a Permanent Resident living in Alberta

Loans can be used for business expansion projects, and business purchases. Loans can be used for a variety of expenses, including:

* Leasehold improvements

* Equipment purchases

* Operating capital

* Advertising and marketing costs

* Purchase of inventory

Loans cannot be used for:

* Owner’s salary

* Existing debt

* Franchise fees

* Speculative ventures (e.g. Purchase of land for resale)

* Intangible goodwill (i.e. business name or reputation)

* Research and development

* Purchase of stocks, shares, or other non-productive investment

AWE offers monthly Loan Info Session Webinars where we walk through:

* What is the AWE Loan Program

* Basic eligibility to apply

* What kind of businesses can apply for an AWE loan

* What expenses AWE can and cannot finance

* How AWE’s loan program differs from other lenders

* Application process

Have questions? Your question may be answered in our FAQ page or feel free to contact us and we'd be happy to provide more information.