On March 28, 2024, the Women’s Business Council in Georgia (WBCG) and the Support to Women’s Education and Development Public Union (SWED PU) in Azerbaijan co-hosted a networking event titled “Building Bridges: Sharing Best Practices & Fostering Collaboration” in Tbilisi, Georgia.
This initiative was organized with support of the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), within the “Strengthening the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem by Networking Regional Women’s Chambers of Commerce and Business Associations” (WE-Champs) project, funded by the U.S. Department of State Secretary’s Office of Global Women’s Issues.
The forum brought together influential female leaders, entrepreneurs, and advocates for women’s economic empowerment from both Georgia and Azerbaijan.
Shalala Kamilova, Program Manager at CIPE, Natia Meparishvili, Chairperson of WBCG, and Aygun Ahmadova, Founder of SWED PU delivered impactful opening remarks that highlighted the critical role of supportive networks and cross-border partnerships in enhancing economic opportunities for women in business.
The event featured insightful discussions on business opportunities in Georgia for foreign investors, led by Inga Bakuradze from the Ministry of Economy’s Investments Department. Key sessions on empowering women entrepreneurs, addressed capacity building, mentorship, coaching, and strategies for market access and business development, with contributions from notable figures like Natia Meparishvili, Teo Babunashvili from the Ministry of Economy, and Magda Bolotashvili from the Georgian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Additionally, the event included sessions on partnership and network building, highlighting work-life balance and well-being, alongside effective networking and collaboration practices.
A pivotal moment of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between SWED PU, Magen David International Center for Women in Azerbaijan, and WBCG. This MoU symbolizes a commitment to mutual support and cooperation, setting a foundation for future collaborations. Aygun Ahmadova, Founder of SWED PU, remarked on the significance of the event: “By joining hands across borders, we are not just building bridges between nations; we are creating a stronger, more resilient network of women entrepreneurs who are poised to drive economic growth and innovation. We are honored to be a part of this transformative movement and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead for all of us.” The event concluded with a special visit to a Women’s Business Facility, where participants witnessed the impact of collaborative efforts on women’s economic empowerment. The day wrapped up with a networking dinner, celebrating the strengthened ties between Azerbaijani and Georgian partners. “Today’s event not only showcased the potential of women entrepreneurs but also demonstrated the power of collaboration across borders,” said Natia Meparishvili, Chairperson of WBCG. This initiative marked a step forward for women entrepreneurs in Georgia and Azerbaijan, creating a promising future for economic collaboration, support, and regional growth.
MoU Signing Ceremony / between Support to Women’s Development and Education PU, Azerbaijan / (SWED PU) and Women’s Business Council in Georgia ( WBCG)
Visit at Techno Park /GITA in Tbilisi
