The United States Embassy in Pakistan recently kicked off the fourth edition of its “Academy for Women Entrepreneurs” (AWE) program at the Lincoln Reading Lounge within the National Library of Pakistan. Bettina Malone, Minister Counselor for Public Affairs, led the inauguration, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for 150 aspiring entrepreneurs from Lahore, Rawalpindi/Islamabad, Peshawar, Quetta, and Karachi.

A global initiative of the US Department of State, the AWE program aims to cultivate entrepreneurship among women through peer-to-peer learning and local mentorship opportunities. It empowers participants with the skills necessary to establish and expand their businesses, emphasizing innovative scaling approaches. With support from public-private sponsors, local partnerships, and the extensive US Exchange Alumni networks, AWE has been instrumental in promoting women-led businesses worldwide.

In Pakistan, the AWE program is driving empowerment, contributing to economic prosperity. Bettina Malone emphasized the significance of supporting women entrepreneurs, noting that their success leads to thriving communities and nations.

The 150 participants selected for AWE 2024 will undergo a rigorous three-month online training program developed by Arizona State University’s Thunderbird School of Global Management and American natural resource company Freeport McMoran. Guided by local mentors and US experts, participants will enhance their core business skills and explore funding opportunities through weekly discussions.

Five Lincoln Corners operated by the US Mission to Pakistan will lead the AWE Pakistan 2024 initiative, supported by the Pakistan American Cultural Center. At the program’s conclusion, participants will have the chance to compete for seed funding from the US Mission to Pakistan to further develop their enterprises.

Upon completing the AWE program, participants will join the global AWE network, providing additional growth opportunities and connecting them with a community of US exchange program alumni. This initiative underscores the commitment to fostering women’s entrepreneurship, paving the way for sustainable economic development and empowerment in Pakistan.