The US Embassy Abu Dhabi has joined hands with organisations to establish an Academy for Women Entrepreneurs in the UAE.
The US Embassy Abu Dhabi, startAD and Zayed University have collaborated to launch a six-month program for female entrepreneurs. Known as the US Academy of Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program, this accelerator is based at the New York University, Abu Dhabi. The aim of the initiative is to empower women by enabling their ideas and business visions. The applications are open for women between 28- 55 years in the UAE until 03rd October 2020.
Research Professor of Engineering, Vice Provost for Entrepreneurship at NYUAD, and Managing Director of startAD Ramesh Jagannathan commented on the launch of the program, saying: “In the MENA region, 37 percent of women want to establish their own business, which is the highest rate globally. However, only 9 percent of women in the region are early-stage entrepreneurs. As such, there is a significant opportunity for the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem to foster female entrepreneurial talent and grow the number of women-led businesses, especially in these times.”
As a Covid-19 response project, this program is tailored to guide businesswomen grow and sustain their businesses considering the current landscape. They will be mentored by experts on how to scale their businesses in over 50 nations. The sessions are conducted virtually so that the participants can work around their schedules comfortably from their homes.
The whole program is broken down into six months through 21 sessions. The participants will learn innovation, business strategy and tools required to devise wholesome business plans and be instructed on how they enhance their economic potential. The program will culminate on International Women’s Day 2021 where the entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to pitch their business ventures to interested investors and partners.
Cultural Affairs Officer at US Embassy Abu Dhabi Lauren Willy commented: “The US and the UAE are united in our enthusiastic support for entrepreneurs, as we have in common richly diverse populations that drive cutting edge innovation and creativity. Our partners, startAD at NYUAD and the IEC at Zayed University have designed a top-notch program that is a reflection of the UAE’s entrepreneurial talent and we look forward to welcoming all women interested in building their businesses into the program. ”
There will be a webinar on 16th September for interested applicants to understand the operations of the program and how it would benefit them. You can find more information on the program and apply for it here.
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