Empowering Women, Driving Growth: Forum Strengthens Azerbaijani-Georgian Women's Entrepreneurship

Baku, Azerbaijan, 8 June - On June 8, 2024, Azerbaijani and Georgian women entrepreneurs gathered for a collaborative forum. Co-hosted by Magen David Azerbaijan, Magen David International Center for Women, Support to Women's Education and Development Public Union (SWED PU), and the Women's Business Council in Georgia (WBCG), the forum titled "Building Business Opportunities through Women's Collaboration between Azerbaijan and Georgia" fostered connections and shared best practices.

This event builds upon the momentum established during a successful networking event held in Tbilisi, Georgia, back in March. There, participants explored ways to strengthen collaboration and witnessed firsthand the impact of initiatives empowering women economically.

The forum kicked off with a project presentation by Aygun Ahmadova, Director at the Magen David International Center for Women, and Natia Meparishvili Chairperson at the WBCG. Highlighting the crucial role women play in economic development, they set the stage for a day of inspiration and collaboration.

Public officials, including Members of the Parliament of Azerbaijan, Chair of the State Committee on Family, Women and Children Affairs Bahar Muradova, and Deputy Chair of the Entrepreneurship Development Fund in Azerbaijan Eldar Hamidov delivered opening remarks. They emphasized the importance of this regional exchange and shed light on policy measures and initiatives supporting women-led businesses in Azerbaijan. Discussions focused on fostering a strong environment for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), promoting women's participation in the business world, and ultimately, driving economic growth.

"This forum strengthens ties between Azerbaijani and Georgian women entrepreneurs. Collaboration unlocks economic growth and empowers women to shape our region's future,"-highlighted Anatoly Rafailov, Member of Parliament, Honorary Chairman of Magen David Azerbaijan.

The forum then facilitated a vibrant exchange of experiences. Presentations by successful Georgian women entrepreneurs, leaders of business associations, and their Azerbaijani counterparts showcased diverse success stories and opened doors for future collaboration.

"Women's entrepreneurial success strengthens economies. This forum fosters collaboration, allowing us to learn from each other and pave the way for a brighter future for women entrepreneurs in both Azerbaijan and Georgia", - said Natia Meparishvili.

The forum concluded on a high note, with closing remarks that reinforced the commitment of both Azerbaijani and Georgian participants to enhance collaboration within their respective entrepreneurial ecosystems. As the Georgian delegation continues their visit over the next two days, they will engage in tours of local women-led businesses and meetings with governmental bodies. These activities are expected to further cement the regional ties and collaborative spirit fostered during the forum. Looking ahead, women entrepreneurs from both countries anticipate this strengthened partnership will lead to more innovative projects and initiatives that support women entrepreneurs, contributing significantly to the regional economy and setting a precedent for future collaborations.