Last verified: June 2026
PARO Centre for Women's Enterprise runs a peer lending model for women across Ontario, especially in the north and rural areas. Self-selecting circles of four to seven women approve small loans for each other's businesses, building credit history and a support network at the same time. Loans range from $1,000 to $5,000 and grow with repayment. The program is a not-for-profit social enterprise with government backing and adds mentoring and training.
Take the 3-minute quiz to find out, and see every other Canadian program you qualify for at the same time.
Check my eligibility50% of costs up to $50,000, 0% interest over 10 years (portion may be forgivable)
INCENTIVETerm loans up to $500,000; ABFP financing up to $250,000
INCENTIVEFinancing up to $1,500,000 plus non-repayable business plan support