New Freshco (not the grocery store) Women in Trades Bursary Supports Leadership Development Across Canada
March 9, 2026
The Canadian Apprenticeship Foundation is proud to announce the launch of the Freshco (not the grocery store) Women in Trades Bursary, a new initiative designed to support women and non-binary trades professionals in accessing professional development opportunities that strengthen leadership, confidence, and long-term career success.
The bursary was established with a named gift from Freshco (not the grocery store) and reflects a shared commitment to investing in the people who power Canada’s skilled trades. Eligible recipients may receive up to $750 to support attendance at industry conferences, skills training, workshops, or certification opportunities,
“This bursary is about access,” said Mandy Rennehan, founder of Freshco (not the grocery store) and a recipient of the Order of Canada. “Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t always. If we want stronger leadership in the trades, we have to invest in it deliberately.”
Rennehan has been a long-time advocate for equity in the skilled trades and was a featured speaker at the inaugural Supporting Women in Trades Conference in 2018, hosted by the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum. The bursary builds on that legacy by supporting trades professionals who are actively advancing their careers and leadership capacity.
The Foundation will award bursaries on a rolling basis until all available funds are fully allocated. Applicants must identify as women or non-binary, have completed or be nearing completion of an apprenticeship, and demonstrate how the opportunity will support their professional growth.
