Something big is happening for women entrepreneurs in Canada. In partnership with CIBC, Startup Canada is thrilled to launch the 2026 Startup Women Podcast, an 8-episode series dedicated to amplifying the real stories, challenges, and triumphs of women founders across the country. Hosted by Mallory Rowan and recorded at Studio House Toronto, this series dives into the real stories behind the scenes with entrepreneurs when they thought they wouldn’t make it, decided to change everything, or even just hit an unglamourous road bump.
“I’m thrilled for the return of the Startup Women Podcast, offering a platform to celebrate the courage, creativity, achievements, and setbacks of Canada’s women entrepreneurs. These conversations offer insights and guidance for women who are starting or growing their businesses. By highlighting these experiences, we aim to inspire the next generation of women founders to pursue their ambitions with confidence, fueling innovation, growth, and economic resilience across Canada.” – Jenn Juby, Interim CEO, Startup Canada
About the Host & Studio
Leading each conversation is Mallory Rowan, an entrepreneur, business coach, and one of Canada’s most dynamic voices in the startup space. The series will be recorded at Studio House Toronto, founded by Erin-Ashley Talucci and Tychon Carter-Newman, winner of Big Brother Canada Season 9 and the first Black winner in the show’s history, bringing world-class production and community spirit to every episode.
“I am incredibly proud to be a Canadian entrepreneur and to help bring Canadian business stories to the forefront. Sitting down with these women and exploring the pivotal moments behind their paths has been powerful, even for myself. I hope it encourages more people to trust what they want, push through the hard parts, and go after it anyway.”
— Mallory Rowan, Host, Startup Women Podcast Mini Series
“Studio House Toronto is proud to champion and support women entrepreneurs by providing a dynamic and inclusive space where women, startups, and leaders can share their stories, connect, and inspire one another. We are deeply grateful for our partnership with Startup Canada, which strengthens our mission to empower innovation and leadership across our community.”
— Erin-Ashley Talucci, Founder of Studio House Toronto
Startup Canada’s Year-Round Commitment to Women Entrepreneurs
The Startup Women Podcast adds to Startup Canada’s ongoing dedication to women founders through the Startup Women program, a free annual flagship program that supports early-stage women-identifying entrepreneurs from coast to coast to coast. Through expert-led webinars, industry advisory circles, and in-person mentorship events, the program creates space for learning, connection, and growth.
The Startup Women Advocacy Network (SWAN) is made up of 13 women-identifying entrepreneurs representing every province and territory in Canada. SWAN amplifies their voices, connects them with resources, and provides mentorship to help drive their businesses forward. The Startup Women Resource Guide connects founders with funding opportunities, training, events, and support available locally, regionally, and nationally.
Introducing the CIBC Women Entrepreneurs Hub
Startup Canada’s partnership with CIBC aligns with the launch of the CIBC Women Entrepreneurs Hub, a dedicated space designed specifically to address the unique challenges women face on their entrepreneurial journey. The Hub brings together valuable networking opportunities, mentorship connections, and curated resources tailored to the needs of women in business, all in one accessible place. It’s built to make the path forward more connected, more resourced, and more supported at every stage.
CIBC Business Banking is dedicated to supporting women entrepreneurs at every stage of their unique business journeys as they help reshape Canada’s business landscape. This commitment is reflected in the launch of the Women Entrepreneurs Hub and the partnership with Startup Canada. By fostering a supportive community, CIBC aims to empower women business owners to overcome barriers and achieve lasting success, because investing in women entrepreneurs strengthens communities, drives economic progress, and inspires the next generation of women leaders
The Wait is Almost Over
We know that when you support women, you support a nation. The Startup Women Podcast is coming. Follow us, subscribe, and get ready. The conversation starts on March 5th.
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