As we celebrate International Women's Day on March 8th, the Ottawa Board of Trade (OBOT) recognizes and appreciates the remarkable contributions of women in our community, as city builder, entrepreneurs, leaders and visionaries.

We encourage you to join us in elevating the voices of trailblazing women. It is imperative we accelerate and protect the creation of an inclusive environment designed for women to contribute, succeed and thrive.

Together, today and always, we will celebrate the achievements of women past, present, and future. We will vow our commitment to advancing gender equity, equality and empowerment.

For our community and our world.

For ourselves and the next generation.

INVEST IN WOMEN. ACCELERATE PROGRESS.

Celebrating Women in Leadership!

Hosted by Sam Laprade, the latest episode of Ottawa Business Matters features discussions with esteemed leaders and innovators making strides in the Ottawa business community. Thank you Sueling Ching, Ruby Williams, Sonya Shorey, and Susan Ingram for joining us on this week's episode and sharing more about the history of OBOT and the importance of collaboration, innovation, and mentorship in building a thriving business community!

The next episode airs Sunday March 10th at 8 PM and features. Or tune in to the Ottawa Business Matters podcast every Monday on your morning commute.

Make the most of International Women's Month 2024

This month, and beyond, we encourage you to attend local events that advance and celebrate women. Thank you to Invest Ottawa for working with so many local organizations to create the IWM calendar to make it easy to decide.

Our partners at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce's Business Data Lab recently released a new report “Barely Breaking Ground: The Slow Stride of Progress for Women in Business Leadership and Entrepreneurship".

While Canada has made some positive strides in advancing equality for women in business, the Business Data Lab's findings reveal that there is much work to be done if we are to achieve the success seen in other countries around the world. This International Women's Month, we challenge you to make the commitment to taking the 50/30 Challenge within your own organizations.

In 2022, the Ottawa Board of Trade's Board of Directors approved our commitment to taking the 50/30 Challenge. The goal is to challenge Canadian organizations to increase the representation and inclusion of diverse groups within their boards and senior management. OBOT is proud to have achieves our goal of 50% gender parity and significant representation of equity-deserving groups (30%).

At OBOT, we recognize the vital role that women-owned businesses play in driving economic growth and fostering innovation. From boutique shops to innovative startups, the women-owned businesses in our communities not only contribute to the economic prosperity of our city but also embody the spirit of resilience and determination. 

When you #BuyLocalOttawa, everyone in our city benefits. Put your money where your heart is and support local women-owned businesses this International Women's Month and beyond!