about us
Created & Designed For Newcomer Women
The Newcomer Entrepreneur Women (N.E.W) Venture program is a women’s entrepreneurship program run by the Syrian Canadian Foundation (SCF) in partnership with the Nisa Foundation for newcomer and refugee women in Ontario or Quebec.
We believe that entrepreneurship can provide a path to economic and social integration for newcomer and refugee women by creating opportunities for income stability, expanding their social and business networks and developing their overall confidence and sense of belonging.
We are committed to creating a supportive and collaborative environment where each participant has the resources, opportunities and conditions they need to succeed.
our objectives
From business idea to open for business
Participants in the N.E.W Venture program will have the opportunity to strengthen their business skills and develop their business idea through weekly training sessions, 1:1 mentorship, incubation & access to funding as well as ongoing networking and in-person events.
The program launches in September 2025 and will rollout in 3 phases including:
Phase 1: Entrepreneurship Fundamentals & Idea Validation
Phase 2: Develop your business plan
Phase 3: Pitch & Incubation
In addition participants will have access to wrap-around support including business language training, mental health resources and additional services as required.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Weekly virtual training sessions designed to develop your knowledge and skills as an entrepreneur.
1:1 Mentorship
Get matched with a mentor who understands your industry and has the network and experience to help you succeed.
Pitch Competition
Participate in a pitch competition for the chance to win up to $5k in funding for your business.
Incubation
Select participants will have the opportunity to participate in a 6-month incubation experience that includes individual coaching and launch support.
INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE?
Is this program right for you?
N.E.W Venture is specifically for newcomer and refugee women who are motivated to launch their own business in Canada. While no prior business experience is required, participants are encouraged to have an existing business idea they’d like to pursue.
This program is for YOU if you are:
- a resident of Ontario or Quebec
- a newcomer or refugee
- at CLB Level 5 or higher
- able to commit 10+ hours a week starting September 2025
Successful candidates will possess an entrepreneurial mindset and have the capacity to participate fully in the program.
If this sounds like you, we’d love to meet you.
Join us for an upcoming information session.
Sign up below to learn more about the program curriculum,
eligibility requirements and application process.
"Many women entrepreneurs, particularly those with intersectional backgrounds, have less access to the social networks needed to participate fully in innovation ecosystems, and to innovative programs focusing on developing mentoring, networking and sponsorship. There is still much work to be done to level the playing field."
WEKH, The State of Women’s Entrepreneurship, Research Preview, 2023
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