News Summary

Calgary-based Movement51, a not-for-profit sister organization of the women-led investment firm The51, has appointed Emily Smiley as its new executive director. Smiley, who previously worked at Toronto-based incubator DMZ as director of partnerships and investor relations, is set to lead Movement51 in its mission to enhance financial acumen, education, and entrepreneurship opportunities for woman-identifying and gender-diverse people. The organization operates flagship programs such as the Financial Feminism Investing Lab, Founder Lab, and Investor Bootcamp. Under Smiley’s leadership, Movement51 aims to accelerate its expansion, strengthen partnerships, and enhance access to financial education, investment, and entrepreneurship. Last year, M51 ran five programs with more than 400 participants and expanded its reach to 48 cities. The organization’s Financial Feminist Investing Lab graduates raised $1.4 million in capital, contributing to a total impact of $2.3 million. This move aligns with The51’s broader strategy, which recently included appointing Lauren Robinson as managing partner and closing a $51-million CAD Food and AgTech Fund.