Women’s Entrepreneurship EXPO in Albania fosters cooperation between women entrepreneurs and investors

On October 27, 2023, more than 40 women-led businesses from Albania participated in the “Women’s Entrepreneurship EXPO” satellite event in Tirana, alongside partners from the private sector, government, and various stakeholders.

The event served as a platform to bolster the growth of local women’s businesses and startup scene while fostering cooperation between entrepreneurs and investors. Women entrepreneurs from the food and agricultural production industries, fashion, education and training sectors joined the event where they strengthened their skills on e-commerce, digital transformation, and gained insights into accessing finance and utilizing various business tools that lead to more sustainable businesses.

Speaking at the opening of the event, Elisa Fernandez Saenz, UN Women Deputy Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia said: “I am thrilled to see so many women entrepreneurs from Albania joining the EXPO satellite event, showcasing their stories and products, and connecting with potential investors,” mentioned Elisa Fernandez Saenz.

Michele Ribotta, UN Women Representative to Albania emphasized that “women’s entrepreneurship can drive Albania’s economic growth, improve people livelihoods, and advance gender equality.”

Ekaterina Solovova, Head of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in Albania, pointed out that “this event provides networking and visibility opportunities and I believe it’s also where women can be inspired and get motivated.”

During the event, women entrepreneurs seized the opportunity to meet and connect with potential investors, private sector companies that are signatories of the Women Empowerment Principles in Albania. The EXPO satellite event served as an interactive space for showcasing women’s products, sharing expertise, and discussing challenges among peers operating in similar or different sectors.

Niklas Ström, Ambassador of Sweden in Albania, commended the resilience of Albanian women entrepreneurs in navigating challenges. “Albanian women entrepreneurs have overcome some of these obstacles, and this room is brimming with success stories and potential for further grow, networking, solidarity, and leadership models for aspiring new entrepreneurs.”

The event was organized by UN Women Albania in close collaboration with key public institutions dedicated to women’s entrepreneurship and startups, the European Bank for Construction and Development, Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and private sector companies.

This satellite event was part of a series of activities within the framework of the regional Women’s Entrepreneurship EXPO 2023, which took place during 16 – 17 November 2023.