The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka awarded six women entrepreneurs for their innovative and impactful business ideas at the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Business Pitch Competition. Organized in collaboration with BRAC University’s Center for Entrepreneurship Development (CED), the winners received recognition for their creative initiatives. On Wednesday, at the Kennedy Hall of the EMK Center in Dhaka, each winner was presented with a symbolic check of BDT 5 lakh.
Acting Chargé d’Affaires Megan Boldin presided over the ceremony and presented the awards. Reaffirming the U.S. government’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs, Boldin said, “These remarkable women exemplify the innovation and resilience necessary to accelerate Bangladesh’s sustainable economic growth.”
The winners were selected from participants of the first and second phases of the AWE program, representing regions such as Sylhet, Cumilla, Barishal, Khagrachari, Jashore, Chattogram, and Dhaka. Each entrepreneur demonstrated promising initiatives through their business pitch proposals.
Speaking further, Megan Boldin highlighted the transformative impact of programs like AWE, which equip women with the skills, resources, and networks needed to succeed in business. She remarked, “When women thrive, entire communities and economies benefit.”
Launched in Bangladesh in 2022, the AWE program has trained over 140 women entrepreneurs from various parts of the country. Implemented in partnership with BRAC University’s Center for Entrepreneurship Development, the program focuses on building critical business skills, including marketing, financing, and strategic planning. Special emphasis is placed on supporting marginalized and economically disadvantaged women, including indigenous and minority groups.
AWE, an initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, promotes inclusive economic growth, entrepreneurship, and women’s leadership in Bangladesh. By empowering women from marginalized communities, it aims to transform them into agents of change.
After completing two phases in Bangladesh, the program has built a vibrant entrepreneurial network, driving social impact, creating jobs, and inspiring others. Based on this success, CED plans to introduce advanced training and mentorship programs to further empower women and address economic disparities in the country.
The partnership between BRAC University and the U.S. Embassy reflects a shared commitment to meeting the needs of marginalized women entrepreneurs and fostering the growth of small and medium enterprises in Bangladesh. The AWE program aligns with the U.S. National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality, accelerating women’s full economic participation and strengthening communities and industries.
