On this international women’s rights day, we would like to highlight the women entrepreneurs of the Rockies
1.Karina - Rocky Mountain Soap
I’m Karina Birch, the co-owner and CEO of Rocky. For over two decades, we’ve been formulating natural
Entrepreneurship was never about just running a business—it was about building something meaningful. When my husband Cam and I purchased Rocky, we saw an opportunity to create products that aligned with our values: health, sustainability, and simplicity. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of creating positive change, and entrepreneurship gave me the platform to do that. I love problem-solving, continuous learning, and pushing boundaries—all things that come with growing a purpose-driven company.
I see female entrepreneurship as a powerful force for innovation and change. Women bring fresh perspectives, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose to business. While there are still barriers to overcome, I believe female entrepreneurs are reshaping industries by leading with authenticity and values. My own journey has taught me that success isn’t about fitting into a traditional mold—it’s about forging your own path, trusting your intuition, and lifting others along the way. I hope to inspire more women to embrace entrepreneurship, knowing that their unique vision and leadership are needed in the business world.
2. - Honey Merchant
The story of The Honey Merchants is primarily that of an entrepreneurial woman, Katie Merchant, who transformed a simple family initiative into a thriving business.
In 2018, Katie and her husband Will, living in Calgary (Alberta), began beekeeping with a very specific goal: to help their son Charlie overcome his fear of insects. What started as an educational project quickly blossomed into a passion.
Katie became increasingly involved in the maintenance of the hives and the harvesting of honey. The family initially started with two hives, but they quickly found themselves with more than 10 hives. They produced more honey than they could consume, which prompted Katie to explore local sales. The positive reception from customers encouraged her to structure the business, and within a few months, their apiary grew to 22 hives, generating approximately 770 kilograms of honey.
In response to the growing demand for flavored honey, Katie adopted an innovative approach by experimenting with new flavors. She thus launched a range of 12 varieties, with special editions depending on the seasons.
This ability to identify market needs and respond creatively is one of the cornerstones of her entrepreneurial success.
Her journey perfectly illustrates the strength of female entrepreneurship:
- She dared to transform a personal project into a profitable business.
- She demonstrated resilience and creativity in meeting market demands.
She has helped to elevate local artisanal know-how while asserting her style and vision.
Today, The Honey Merchants continue to grow, proving that with passion, determination, and innovation, a woman can build a thriving business.
Try their honey here
3. - Haley Potter
I’m Haley Cole, a self-taught potter from PEI who found my way to Canmore through my love of skiing and the mountains. I started my business 4 years ago selling my work and recently moved to Canmore to expand my business to open a community space where others can experience the joy of working with clay—whether through wheel throwing, pottery painting, or simply appreciating handmade ceramics.
Becoming an entrepreneur was always my plan. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of building something of my own—a space where creativity and community could thrive together. Pottery is a craft that constantly challenges and inspires me, and I wanted to share that experience with others.
Female entrepreneurship is about taking up space, leading with passion, and lifting others along the way. Women entrepreneurs need to be resilient as early in the process I felt I was often treated without respect because I was a young female. The more we support and celebrate women in business, the more we shape a future where our voices, talents, and ambitions are recognized and valued.
Find their creation here
4. Andréanne Mulaire Dandeneau - Anne Mulaire
Andréanne (Anne) Mulaire Dandeneau is the founder of the sustainable and inclusive fashion brand, Anne Mulaire. Born in Saint-Boniface, Winnipeg, Manitoba, she is of Anishinaabe and French Métis descent from the Red River Nation. Raised with a deep respect for her cultural heritage, Anne was inspired by her mother, Huguette, who taught her the importance of honoring Mother Earth, and by her father, David, an artist who creates Métis patterns for the brand's Heritage collection.
At the age of 14, Anne began designing her own dance outfits, unable to find comfortable attire for her performances. After graduating from the Fashion Design School at LaSalle College in Montreal, she launched her first collection, "Hug Me," from her parents' basement. Her commitment to sustainability and quality led her to establish her eponymous brand, which celebrates the French, Indigenous, and Métis cultures of Canada.
Today, Anne continues to create garments inspired by nature on Treaty 1 territory, honoring the French, Indigenous, and Métis cultures of Canada.
Find their creation here
