Alterna Savings’ Community Microfinance – Working Women Business Loan

A microloan of $1,000 to $25,000 designed to support women entrepreneurs in Ontario—providing capital for business startup or self-employment flexibly and affordably.

Alterna Savings

Overview of the Alterna Savings’ Community Microfinance – Working Women Business Loan program:

The Working Women Business Loan supports women-led, Canadian, self-employed ventures in Ontario with loans between $1,000 and $25,000. It helps cover startup or growth needs like tools, marketing, or operational costs. Designed for women with minimal income and limited access to traditional credit, the program includes financial coaching, credit-building, and flexible repayment. Eligible participants must live and work in Alterna’s Ontario service area, operate a for‑profit business (at least 51% owned by a woman), and submit a business plan and cash flow. It's tailored to make entrepreneurship accessible.

Benefits of the Alterna Savings’ Community Microfinance – Working Women Business Loan program:

This loan empowers women entrepreneurs with accessible financing to start or grow businesses. With loans up to $25,000, it helps support business essentials like tools, marketing, or equipment without reliance on traditional credit. Borrowers also receive credit-building support, business coaching, and flexible repayment termsdesigned to foster financial independence and sustainable small business growth in underserved communities.

Eligibility criteria of the Alterna Savings’ Community Microfinance – Working Women Business Loan program:

Must be a legal resident of Canada, age 18 or older
Live and operate within Alternas Ontario service area
Be self-employed with minimal income under $50,000
Have 51% ownership as a women-owned business
Be generating revenue
Provide: business plan/cash flow forecast, photo ID, business registration documents, two references
Complete an interview with Alternas Microfinance team