BAKU – U.S. Chargé d’Affaires William Gill emphasized the key role women play in economic growth and diversification in Azerbaijan, during his opening remarks today at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)-sponsored conference on “Developing Women’s Entrepreneurship in Azerbaijan.”  The conference was organized by USAID’s implementing partner, Entrepreneurship Development Foundation, as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week 2018.

Chargé d’Affaires Gill noted, “Increasing women’s economic participation is a key element of the United States government’s commitment to global gender equality as well as a critical aspect of economic growth and community resiliency.” He added, “We work with the government and the people of Azerbaijan to support women entrepreneurs and women-owned small and medium-sized businesses.” 

Vahid Ahmadov, Member of Parliament, Jaidev Singh, USAID Mission Director, and Nadir Adilov, Deputy Chairman of the Board of the Small and Medium Business Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, also attended the event.  The conference brought together representatives from government agencies, diplomatic missions, women entrepreneurs from Baku and regions, and local and international civil society organizations to discuss strategies for developing women’s entrepreneurship. 

USAID currently funds several projects that support women entrepreneurs through business development trainings, small business start-up grants, and women’s resource centers.  These programs have helped women of all ages across Azerbaijan start businesses, including bookshops, bakeries, sewing and tailoring workshops, and bee-keeping operations.

Launched in 2008, Global Entrepreneurship Week is an annual event that recognizes innovators and job creators that bring new ideas to life, drive economic growth, and expand human welfare through business activities.  November 12-18, millions of people around the world will participate in events and competitions that will inspire, connect, and engage the next generation of entrepreneurs.