Big ideas. Meaningful impact. Meet the 2026 BMO Celebrating Women Grant recipients

Innovation. Resilience. Community impact. 

These qualities define the 10 recipients of the 2026 BMO Celebrating Women Grant Program, a BMO for Women initiative delivered in collaboration with Deloitte that supports women-owned businesses creating meaningful change across Canada. Each recipient receives a $10,000 grant, access to a BMO for Women Advocate, and an invitation to attend the BMO Celebrating Women Summit in Toronto.  

From healthcare and biotechnology to sustainability and professional services, this year's recipients are tackling real-world challenges while building businesses that strengthen the communities they serve.  

"Women entrepreneurs are driving meaningful progress across every sector of the economy. At BMO, we're committed to creating opportunities that help entrepreneurs grow with confidence while making a positive impact in their communities."

- Sharon Haward-Laird, Group Head, Canadian Commercial Banking and North American Integrated Solutions, BMO, and Executive Sponsor of BMO for Women

Meet the 2026 Recipients 

Helping women gain financial confidence  

Mahsa Nosrati, founder of MN FinanceLabs, is helping women and entrepreneurs build financial confidence through practical education, tools, and guidance. 

"MN FinanceLabs helps entrepreneurs, especially women, build financial confidence. We help business owners understand their numbers, access funding, and build businesses with lasting impact for their families and communities." 

Expanding access to care 

Through Universal Health Hub, Maya Nathani is connecting people to healthcare, staffing, training and AI-enabled senior care solutions.  

"At Universal Health Hub, we believe every Canadian deserves proactive, dignified aging care. Our artificial intelligence-powered tool identifies foot concerns from a simple photo and connects people with foot care nurses before small issues become serious." 

Advancing sustainable living 

Allisha Heidt of Chickpeace Planet is helping consumers reduce waste through refillable products and sustainable everyday choices.  

"Chickpeace is a refill store making plastic-free living affordable and accessible. Certified as a B Corporation, we use business as a force for good. Discover eco-friendly, low-waste pantry, cleaning, and personal care essentials." 

Creating opportunities through employment 

Jennifer Ménard-Shand's Staff Shop connects organizations with talent through staffing, recruitment and consulting services.  

“Staff Shop creates opportunity, advances economic reconciliation, and empowers people through meaningful work. As an Indigenous and women-owned firm, we're building a lasting legacy.” 

Helping impact-driven organizations grow 

Through Optinum, Zahra Qureshi provides financial and accounting advisory services that help purpose-driven organizations thrive.  

“We are a finance partner for small businesses and non-profits creating positive impact. We help leaders build sustainable organizations that balance growth, long-term success, and social change.” 

Reimagining sustainable materials 

Iris Redinger's Material Futures Lab is developing biotechnology solutions that create sustainable colourants and carbon-negative materials.  

“At Material Futures, we’re developing technologies that create healthier products, reduce emissions, and support Canada’s circular economy.” 

Supporting maternal wellness 

Véronique Brouillette, founder of Maman Active, is helping women prioritize health and wellness during pregnancy and postpartum.  

“At Maman Active, we help women take control of their health through a science-based approach. By making physical activity, education, and community support accessible, we help women thrive in body and life.” 

Improving mobility and comfort 

Spacer Mobility, co-founded by Meryl Baker, is developing products that support foot health and mobility.  

“We believe better movement starts from the ground up. Our foot health solutions improve mobility, reduce pain, and support healthier lives. Through purpose-driven products, we're creating lasting impact for people and communities.” 

Empowering professionals through communication 

Through Speak Fluent, Angela Chung provides speech therapy and communication coaching that helps professionals build confidence and connection.  

“Speak Fluent turns speech therapy into communication coaching for professionals. We believe clear communication strengthens collaboration, builds stronger teams, and creates more equitable workplaces.” 

Reducing single-use plastics 

Chia Ling Lu's Trifecta Living Co. creates sustainable consumer products designed to help households reduce waste.  

“Trifecta makes sustainable living practical, beautiful, and accessible. We’re building a purpose-led business that helps households reduce waste, choose better materials, and make everyday choices that support the planet.” 

Growing the Good Together 

Together, these entrepreneurs reflect the creativity, ambition and purpose driving Canada's business community forward. Their businesses align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrate how innovation and community impact can go hand in hand.  

Through the Celebrating Women Grant Program, BMO continues to support women-owned businesses with access to funding, advice, connections and community, helping entrepreneurs create lasting impact while Boldly Growing the Good – in business and life.  

About BMO for Women 

BMO for Women is BMO’s flagship program dedicated to supporting businesses, professionals, and investors. Through specialized advice, access to capital, educational opportunities, strategic partnerships and a nationwide advocate network, BMO for Women helps clients grow their businesses, advance their careers, and build long-term financial confidence.