Islamabad, 9 March 2023 (WAI): The U.S. Embassy in Pakistan proudly announces the commencement of the fourth Pakistan cohort of the “Academy for Women Entrepreneurs” (AWE) program. The launch event occurred at the Lincoln Reading Lounge at the National Library of Pakistan, where Bettina Malone, Minister Counselor for Public Affairs, inaugurated this year’s cohort.
The AWE program, an initiative by the U.S. Department of State, aims to empower women entrepreneurs by providing them with resources, mentorship, and training. Through peer-to-peer learning and local mentorship, AWE assists participants in building their businesses and exploring innovative scaling opportunities. This program has been instrumental in fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth in over 100 countries worldwide.
In Pakistan, the AWE program is set to empower 150 participants from major cities, including Lahore, Rawalpindi/Islamabad, Peshawar, Quetta, and Karachi. Participants will undergo a rigorous three-month online training program developed by Arizona State University’s Thunderbird School of Global Management and Freeport McMoran, focusing on core business skills and strategies for success.
During the launch event, Malone emphasized the crucial role of women entrepreneurs in driving economic prosperity, stating, “When women are successful, communities prosper, and countries thrive.”
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The AWE Pakistan 2024 cohort will benefit from the mentoring and guidance established Pakistani entrepreneurs provide, enabling them to connect with funding opportunities and expand their businesses. With support from the Pakistan American Cultural Center, five Lincoln Corners across Pakistan will lead the AWE program.
Toward the program’s conclusion, participants will have the opportunity to compete for seed funding from the U.S. Mission to Pakistan to develop their enterprises further. Upon completion, participants will join the global AWE network, gaining access to additional growth opportunities and a supportive community of U.S. exchange program alumni.
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