New research from North America’s leading digital networking platform, Monday Girl, in partnership with Environics Research, reveals a clear networking gap for Canadian women working professionals. Despite the growing importance of professional networking in today’s competitive job market – where AI and automation are reshaping industries – the report highlights that women continue to face barriers in accessing effective networking opportunities, with the majority (67%) of women working professionals finding traditional networking events awkward and uncomfortable, and most (60%) don’t think they help build strong industry connections.
The 2025 Canadian Women’s Mentorship and Networking Report highlights the following three trends:
Workplace Challenges and Safe Spaces
Over half (51%) of Canadian professional women are worried about major companies scaling back DEI initiatives, fearing the negative impact on their career development and progression. Additionally, the overwhelming majority (83%) express the need for more networking opportunities specifically designed for women, while nearly half (47%) are actively seeking safe spaces where they can feel supported in the workplace.
These findings highlight the ongoing challenges women face in accessing meaningful career growth opportunities and supportive work environments. Without dedicated efforts to maintain DEI initiatives, women may encounter greater barriers to advancement, ultimately limiting overall diversity in the workforce.
The Networking Gap
Over two-thirds (67%) of Canadian professional women find traditional networking events awkward and uncomfortable, and 60% don’t believe these events help build strong industry connections. Yet, networking remains essential for career advancement, with 86% of women considering it important for professional growth and 79% emphasizing its role in securing a new job.
Despite this, 68% agree that there are not enough networking opportunities specifically designed for women professionals. Without more inclusive and effective networking spaces, women may struggle to build the relationships necessary for career growth, ultimately limiting their professional potential and representation in leadership roles.
Mentorship and Career Support
Over eight-in-ten (85%) Canadian professional women view mentorship as vital to career advancement, but, despite this strong demand, only 15% currently have a mentor, and only 19% are actively searching for one.
These findings highlight a significant gap in mentorship for women professionals, as limited access to mentorship opportunities may hinder their ability to gain essential guidance, ultimately restricting their career growth and advancement.
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko
“As the data clearly shows, there is a significant networking gap for Canadian women professionals, and too many are struggling to find spaces where they can build strong industry connections that will make a difference in their careers, especially in today’s rapidly changing job market,” said Rachel Wong and Istiana Bestari, co-founders of Monday Girl.
Monday Girl recently hosted its annual Toronto Summit on March 29 at the Fairmont Royal York.
Mario Toneguzzi
Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Entrepreneur. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 and 2024 as one of the top business journalists in the world by PR News. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024 and 2025.
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