U.S. Embassy launches academy for women entrepreneurs in PHL

The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines launched the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) by launching a free Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) with more than 150 women entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners in the Philippines.

AWE is part of the White House-led Women’s Global Development and Prosperity (W-GDP) Initiative to empower women worldwide to fulfill their economic potential and create conditions for increased stability, security, and prosperity.  W-GDP aims to reach 50 million women by 2025.

This year, more than 5,000 women from more than 50 countries will participate in AWE.  In the Philippines, the American Corners Bacolod and Marawi are facilitating the program.  Three more Philippine cities are expected to launch the program in 2021.

“AWE comes to Marawi City at the most opportune time,” said American Corner Marawi Director and Fulbright alum Elin Anisha Guro.  “AWE is strategically positioned to train, equip, empower, and guide these new and experienced entrepreneurs as they struggle to adapt to a new business normal to achieve their personal and community goals.”

“AWE Bacolod will help aspiring young women entrepreneurs, housewives, and out-of-school youth build networks,” said American Corner Bacolod Director Ma. Girlie de Guzman.

The first cohort of 160 Filipina AWE students are expected to graduate by the end of the year.