Okanagan College (OC), OC's BC BTAC (BC Beverage Technology Access Centre) and WeBC (Women's Enterprise Centre) know that when women entrepreneurs come together, their collective strength and innovation can transform industries.
Women in Beverage Peer Mentor Program OC
Recognizing this, the organizations have partnered to launch two new peer mentorship programs designed to empower women in the beverage and construction sectors as part of the Growing Women Entrepreneurs project. This initiative aims to increase opportunities for women entrepreneurs in the beverage and Architecture, Construction, and Engineering (ACE) sectors.
Carole Dobler, who specializes in social media and digital marketing for the wine industry, participated in an OC-WeBC peer mentorship program offered in 2024 and said, "As someone new to the Okanagan, the program was invaluable. It's given me a better understanding of the industry and the unique needs here."
The industry specific, peer mentorship programs, supported by the Government of Canada's Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, provide a vital network and mentorship to help women achieve their business goals. According to Statistics Canada, women business ownership is growing in this country. In 2023, approximately 18.4 per cent of all businesses were majority owned by women in Canada, compared to 15.6 per cent in 2017.
"We are thrilled to be a part of this important project," said Karin Grosstessner-Hain, manager at Okanagan College's BC BTAC. "In 2024, we co-hosted one peer mentorship program, and two networking and knowledge sharing events with great success, and we continue to look for unique ways for women entrepreneurs in various industries to connect, share experiences, and overcome sector-specific challenges."
As part of the Growing Women Entrepreneurs project, Okanagan College will host two free, nine-week peer mentorship programs specifically designed for women entrepreneurs in the beverage and ACE sectors.
Women in Construction Peer Mentor Program OC
Women in Beverage Peer Mentor Program
Led by industry expert Rochelle Minagawa, the Women in Beverage Peer Mentor Program offers participants valuable guidance and leadership insights. Minagawa's experience in the fermented beverage industry and running her own business makes her an invaluable asset to this program.
"This program is a fantastic opportunity for women in the beverage industry to connect with a supportive network and gain the knowledge and confidence they need to take their businesses to the next level," said Minagawa.
Grosstessner-Hain at BC BTAC added, "We're all about supporting B.C.'s beverage sector through research, innovation services, and training opportunities and are happy to offer our support of women entrepreneurs in the beverage sector. There's a lot of talent and innovation right here in our own backyard and we want to help cultivate it!"
The program kicks off with an online meeting on Feb. 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. Following that, there will be eight weekly, two-hour sessions scheduled based on the group's availability and location. Space is limited to only eight applicants, so applicants are encouraged to apply online or by contacting bcbtac@okanagan.bc.ca.
Women in Construction and Home Design Peer Mentor Program
The Women in Construction and Home Design Peer Mentor Program is led by a team of experienced professionals including Vanessa Pfannenschmidt, co-owner of Valley Wide Slinger Service and member of CHBA Women in Construction, Paige Charles, owner of Building Dreamz Renovations and former OC carpentry student, and Amy Vaillancourt, owner of Finch Wellness Interiors and OC Sustainable Building Technology program professor.
This program offers participants one hour of group mentorship per week, along with the opportunity to connect with a supportive network of women in the construction and home design industries. The program kicks off the week of Feb. 3 with an online meeting, followed by in-person meetings throughout the program.
The program also includes an invitation to a special networking and social event on Friday, Mar. 7, bringing together a range of women involved in construction and home design in the Central and South Okanagan.
Space is limited to eight applicants. For more information and to apply, fill-out the online form or contact jbuitenhuis@okanagan.bc.ca.
Both programs have also received support from the Government of Canada's Women Entrepreneurship Strategy.
