Launching the fourth iteration of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs in Malta

The US Embassy in Malta, in partnership with The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry (The Malta Chamber), launched the fourth iteration of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program, welcoming over 30 inspiring women who applied for the US Department of State’s 2024 AWE program. US Ambassador Constance J. Milstein and Mr. Chris Vassallo Cesareo, President of The Malta Chamber, presided over the launch and expressed their enthusiasm for the program and its participants.

In collaboration with The Malta Chamber, the US Embassy has supported women entrepreneurs in Malta through this global initiative since 2022. The AWE program equips women with the essential knowledge, networks, and access needed to start and scale successful businesses. Participants get the opportunity to pitch business strategies developed during the program to compete for seed funding to invest in their ventures.

During remarks, Ambassador Milstein stated, “As a businesswoman, AWE is particularly important to me.  Your energy and innovation are truly the driving forces behind economic growth and social progress.  We hope that all of you who go through this program will not only drive innovation in Malta and deepen U.S.-Maltese economic ties but also serve as role models and mentors to girls and young women seeking inspiration, guidance, and equal opportunities.”

Mr. Vassallo Cesareo addressed the new cohort, saying, “The Malta Chamber is honored to have once again been entrusted by the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Department of State to deliver the AWE program. This partnership reaffirms the importance and prestige of The Malta Chamber in fostering entrepreneurship and empowering women in business. It underscores the recognition of our commitment to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and the untapped potential of women entrepreneurs in Malta.”

In her comments, Rachel Bondi Attard, The Malta Chamber’s Head of Media & Communications Strategy, said, “Through this program, we aim to give you the tools, the guidance, and the confidence to navigate the world of business, no matter how daunting it may seem. This is just the beginning. Over the next months, you will be challenged, inspired, and pushed beyond your comfort zones.”

The AWE program supports the U.S. government’s National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality, which aims to advance women’s economic empowerment globally. Implemented in nearly 100 countries, AWE has supported more than 25,000 women entrepreneurs around the world in developing their entrepreneurial ideas and growing their businesses.