archived
Accelerate HER PEI
Last Update: March 3, 2026
Prince Edward Island, Canada
Mentorship program for women-led PEI businesses
Other Support
Partnering and Collaboration
Grant and Funding
Expert Advice
Overview
Accelerate HER PEI is a fully funded 12-week business development program designed to support early growth, women-owned businesses in Prince Edward Island through tailored mentorship, networking, and expert advisory services. While there is no direct monetary grant provided to participants, the program offers comprehensive, cost-free access to business support, workspace, and training activities to foster business growth.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Integrate new technologies
- Develop a new product
- Develop an online presence
Eligible Funding
- No Condition
Timeline
- Archived
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Prince Edward Island
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
- Persons with Disabilities
- Newcomers to Canada
- Other Racialized Persons
- Rural or Northern Residents
- Startups
- Women
Activities funded
- Participation in a structured business accelerator program designed to support early-growth phase women-led businesses in Prince Edward Island.
- Engagement in weekly group learning, including group meetings, peer networking, and expert-led presentations on various business topics.
- Receiving individualized mentorship and one-on-one business advisory sessions matched to specific business needs.
- Utilization of dedicated workspace and resources at the Rural Women’s Business Centre for business development activities.
- Involvement in goal-setting, progress tracking, and accessing customized business support resources throughout the 12-week program.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 7,500
Develop an eco-friendly fashion line with sustainable materials
$ 25,000
Establish a mobile health clinic to serve remote areas
$ 8,000
Initiate a digital literacy program for seniors
$ 5,000
Launch a community-driven urban garden with educational workshops
$ 5,500
Implement a local art exhibition space for emerging artists
$ 8,000
Create a networking hub for tech start-ups
Eligibility
- The business must be for-profit and at least 51% owned by a woman or women.
- The company must be currently registered in Prince Edward Island.
- The business must have been in continuous operation for at least one year.
- Applicants must be in an early growth phase or taking a new direction.
Who is eligible?
- Women-owned, for-profit businesses (at least 51% owned by a woman or women)
- Businesses registered in Prince Edward Island
- Enterprises from any sector
Eligible expenses
- Access to dedicated workspace at the Rural Women’s Business Centre for program participants.
- Group learning sessions and workshops (in-person or virtual).
- One-on-one mentorship sessions with experienced business owners or entrepreneurs.
- Access to business advisory support, expert presentations, and program materials.
- Peer support and networking activities among women entrepreneurs.
Eligible geographic areas
- Prince Edward Island
Selection criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for the Accelerate HER PEI program. The selection process is based on specific eligibility requirements and a thorough evaluation of applicants' businesses and potential for growth.
- Women-owned, for-profit businesses registered in Prince Edward Island for at least one year
- Preference given to underrepresented populations such as indigenous women, women of color, rural women business owners, women in trades/STEM, newcomers, and women with disabilities
- Businesses in the early growth stage or exploring new directions
- Commitment to attend weekly group meetings, engage with expert presenters, and participate in one-on-one mentorship
How to apply
1
Verify eligibility criteria
- Review the eligibility criteria for the Accelerate HER PEI program
- Ensure your business meets the requirements, such as being at least 51% woman-owned and registered in PEI
- Consider if your business is in the early growth stage or changing direction
2
Prepare application materials
- Gather required documentation for your business registration and ownership
- Prepare a summary of your business growth stage and objectives
- Contact the Rural Women’s Business Centre or program coordinators for further information if needed
3
Submit your application
- Submit your application when the next intake opens
- Applications will be accepted for a limited period
- Check the program website or contact coordinators to know when applications are open
4
Participate in selection interview
- Participate in a selection interview if invited
- Provide additional information as requested during the selection process
- Wait for notification on the status of your application
Additional information
- There is no cost for individuals selected to participate in the program.
- Participants gain exclusive access to a dedicated workspace at the Rural Women’s Business Centre with flexible hours.
- The total estimated time commitment across group and individual activities is approximately 36 hours over 12 weeks.
- Program is delivered both in-person at the Rural Women’s Business Centre and virtually, providing flexibility in participation.
Contacts
office@peibwa.org
902-892-6040
