ALBUQUERQUE, NM — DreamSpring is proud to announce the service of one of its DreamMakers as a U.S. Advisory Judge for BMO's 2024 Celebrating Women Grant Program. Amber Kani, DreamSpring Head of Stakeholder Engagement, helped select the recipients of $150,000 in grants offered through BMO aimed at empowering women-owned businesses. Amber’s volunteer service in this program is part of DreamSpring’s ongoing commitment to partnering with organizations that uplift small business owners and foster community growth.
In collaboration with Deloitte, BMO's 2024 Celebrating Women Grant Program awarded 15 women-owned businesses with $10,000 each, supporting them in launching new products, expanding into new markets, and creating jobs. Amber was part of a judging panel tasked with selecting applicants who demonstrate resilience, innovation, and a strong commitment to driving economic progress in their communities.
Beyond BMO’s financial support, 2024 Celebrating Women Grant Program recipients also gain access to valuable resources, including personalized coaching, advisory board memberships, and promotional support through BMO’s platforms. To see the full list of recipients and learn more about the Celebrating Women Grant Program, visit bmoforwomen.com.
Amber Kani, DreamSpring Head of Stakeholder Engagement |
"The BMO Celebrating Women in Business Grant Program elevates the powerful voices of female entrepreneurs. As judges, we had the privilege of engaging with stories about innovation, overcoming adversity, and envisioning a better future for our families,” says Amber. “This year we had a phenomenal pool of applicants, and we are so proud of each business owner. Together, we can rally behind women in business and build new paths to prosperity in our communities.” |
DreamSpring is grateful to Amber’s generosity in sharing her deep expertise of entrepreneurship, honed over 15 years in the Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) space. Her bono fides include certificates in women’s entrepreneurship, social impact, and economics from Cornell University, the Clinton Global Initiative University, and the Engalitcheff Institute for Comparative Political and Economic Systems, in addition to numerous other academic achievements, board service positions, and community honors.
“As a DreamMaker, I am proud to engage with partners that support women entrepreneurs,” Amber says. “These businesses are shaping the future of their industries, and it’s inspiring to witness their drive and determination. With the support of organizations like BMO, Deloitte, and DreamSpring, their potential for growth and community impact is unstoppable.”
In her capacity as Head of Stakeholder Engagement for DreamSpring, Amber leads philanthropy, external affairs and strategic messaging, capital acquisition, and community engagement. To partner with DreamSpring in helping women and other under-represented entrepreneurs forge new paths in business, please email Amber at akani@dreamspring.org.
BMO Financial Group is the eighth largest bank in North America by assets, with total assets of $1.4 trillion as of July 31, 2024. Serving customers for 200 years and counting, BMO is a diverse team of highly engaged employees providing a broad range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management, global markets and investment banking products and services to 13 million customers across Canada, the United States, and in select markets globally. Driven by a single purpose, to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life, BMO is committed to driving positive change in the world, and making progress for a thriving economy, sustainable future, and inclusive society.
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