Why Funding For Women Owned Businesses Is Hard to Come By and What Erin Sisko is Doing About It

In this episode of This Mother Means Business, host Laura Sinclair welcomes back a rare second-time guest: Erin Sisko, founder of The Elleiance Network and creator of the $50K Capital Elle Business Impact Award.The Capital Elle Award was designed to support Canadian women entrepreneurs who have ever been labeled—or felt—“unfundable.” With $50,000 in funding and business services available in 2025, the award is about more than just financial support. It’s about changing the conversation around women, funding, and scaling purpose-driven businesses.Laura and Erin dive into the challenges women face in traditional funding models, the myths around risk tolerance, and why access and networks matter as much as capital. Erin also shares how past winners have used the funds and why this program is designed to make applying simple, accessible, and impactful.Whether you’re ready to apply or simply curious about how women are reshaping the entrepreneurial ecosystem, this conversation is full of insights, encouragement, and opportunities.In this episode you will hear:[00:00] Laura introduces Erin Sisko as a rare repeat guest and previews the Capital Elle Business Impact Award.[01:18] Erin shares her background with the Elleiance Network and the creation of the award for “unfundable” women entrepreneurs.[03:05] The funding gap: why many women don’t realize grants and awards are available—or think they’re for them.[03:48] The myths: Erin breaks down why women are not more risk-averse than men, despite what funding narratives suggest.[06:11] A closer look at three types of funding—grants, bank loans, and private investment—and where women are excluded.[09:59] Why relationships and access to networks matter as much as capital when it comes to funding opportunities.[11:37] How the Capital Elle Award is structured: a quick, accessible application and trust in women entrepreneurs to use the funds wisely.[16:41] Examples of how past winners have used funding—from marketing and tech systems to hiring support.[19:13] Why pairing services with cash makes this award unique and helps women step fully into their CEO role.[20:40] Key dates: applications open September 2, 2025, and close October 28, 2025.[22:58] The power of collaboration: 29 partners contributing to this year’s $50,000 prize pool.[25:50] Erin shares her motivation for doing this work—community, impact, and being a role model for her kids.[28:22] Where to learn more about the award and how to apply.[30:40] Closing encouragement for listeners: why not apply? You never know—you could be the winner.Apply for the 2025 Capital Elle Business Impact Award - https://www.elleiance.ca/impact-award-2025 Erin's Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elle.iance/Website: https://www.elleiance.ca/Join This Mother Means Business : www.thismothermeansbusiness.com Laura's Links:• Website • Laura's Instagram • LinkedIn • Facebook • Pinterest • TikTok