The federal government announced a non-repayable investment of over $1.9 million for Empowerment Squared to support Black entrepreneurs and Black-led businesses in Hamilton and Windsor.

Empowerment Square is a not-for-profit organization that empowers newcomer, racialized and marginalized communities in Canada through mentorship, access to post-secondary education, professional skills development, entrepreneurship, sports and recreation.

Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, says the investment will create the Southwestern Ontario Black Business Network, which will provide Black entrepreneurs in the Hamilton and Windsor areas with advisory services, mentorship, entrepreneurial training and networking opportunities.

The government also says the investment will support the creation of 80 new jobs and 275 Black entrepreneurs.

“We are proud to support Empowerment Squared and the work it does for Black entrepreneurs in Hamilton and Windsor. The Government of Canada’s support through the Black Entrepreneurship Program Ecosystem Fund is an important step to ensure that Black entrepreneurs and business owners have the tools they need to access the capital, services, mentorship, and networking opportunities to succeed and drive inclusive economic growth in our communities,” said Jaczek, in a statement.