The Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), have launched a new initiative to empower women entrepreneurs in India. This program called ‘Capacity Strengthening for Women Social Entrepreneurs’, marks a significant step in the ongoing collaboration between KOICA and USAID, following their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in February 2024.
The Capacity Strengthening for Women Social Entrepreneurs program is the first joint effort under the KOICA-USAID partnership, which focuses on four strategic goals: women’s economic empowerment, disaster and climate resilience, digital literacy, and trilateral cooperation. This initiative will support women entrepreneurs by sharing successful practices from Korea’s robust social economy and facilitating cross-border networking.
Running from August 21 to September 3, 2024, the program features a comprehensive curriculum on Korea’s social economy, impact investment, and case studies of innovative social enterprises. Participants will visit Seoul, Suwon, and Busan to explore initiatives such as tech-based women entrepreneurs utilising solar power, social enterprises employing biomass dyeing technology, and smart farming solutions for adolescents with disabilities.
The launch event, held at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, was attended by Deputy Chief of Mission Minister Lim Sang Woo, KOICA Country Director Mr. Woo Chan Chang, U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Jorgan Andrews, USAID Acting Mission Director Alexandria Huerta, and Ms. Mercy Epao, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).
Korean Deputy Chief of Mission Lim Sang Woo said, ‘‘This program is more than just a training initiative; it is a platform for creating a sustainable ecosystem for women entrepreneurs in India. By combining Korea’s expertise in social innovation with India’s dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, we are laying the groundwork for lasting social impact. We are very happy that KOICA and USAID are partnering together with India for this important initiative.”
U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Jorgan Andrews said, “The United States is proud to support the KOICA-USAID exchange program, which will enhance the leadership skills of participants and contribute to a broader network of women leaders driving progress and fostering economic growth in India. This exchange program underscores the United States’ commitment to partnering with India to promote inclusive growth through women’s economic empowerment.”
Following the exchange, USAID will host a knowledge-sharing workshop, where participants will present their action plans and discuss strategies to apply their learnings in their communities. The workshop will further solidify the partnership between KOICA and USAID and identify new avenues for future collaboration.
