APPLY: US consulate announces training for female entrepreneurs

The United States consulate general in Lagos is taking applications for the 2020 Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE).

AWE is a US initiative that supports women entrepreneurs around the world.

According to a statement by the consulate, 120 female entrepreneurs from across southern Nigeria will be selected to receive virtual and in-person training and mentoring.

It added that 20 female migrant returnees will be supported with comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration.

The programme is scheduled to run from November till March 2021.

Jennifer Foltz, acting public affairs officer of the consulate, explained that the goal of the AWE is to teach women around the world to become successful entrepreneurs despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“One of the U.S. government’s goals is to promote entrepreneurship worldwide. Through the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, we are doing just that by giving ambitious businesswomen the skills they need to take their ventures to the next level. For this year’s program, we encourage motivated and self-driven female entrepreneurs to apply,” Foltz said.

“Successful applicants will receive lessons on business management, network with like-minded entrepreneurs and mentors, and learn the practical skills required to create and run successful and sustainable businesses.

“Leading local business leaders will help facilitate the workshops. In addition, participants will receive access to DreamBuilder, a blended business-training course developed through a partnership between Arizona State University’s Thunderbird School of Global Management and global copper mining company Freeport-McMoRan.”

The consulate said it partnered with Ascend Studios Foundation to administer the program.

Commenting on the partnership, Inya Lawal, CEO of the foundation said: “With the challenges and opportunities the COVID-19 pandemic has presented, a lot more women are looking for new ways to pivot their businesses, and AWE is on the lookout for such women.”

Female entrepreneurs interested in participating in the AWE programme can apply by filling out the application form here.

Application closes on November 8, 2020.