PAS-NEWZEALAND-2024-02: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in the Pacific Region

The U.S. Embassy New Zealand Public Diplomacy Section (PDS) of the U.S. Department of State has announced a unique opportunity under the title “Academy for Women Entrepreneurs – Pacific Region,” marked by the funding opportunity number PAS-NEWZEALAND-2024-02. This program, falling under the category of Business and Commerce, specifically targets the empowerment of women entrepreneurs in the Pacific region. With an estimated total funding of $20,000 and an expected ten awards, the initiative aims to provide significant support to women’s social and economic empowerment, subject to the availability of funds.

The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) focuses on establishing cohorts of about 30 women each, who will meet either online or in person, to foster development and networking. The program is open to various Pacific countries including New Zealand, Niue, the Cook Islands, Tokelau, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Wallis and Futuna, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Samoa, Palau, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia. This broad geographical scope indicates the program’s commitment to a regional impact. Eligible applicants for this grant include private institutions of higher education, nonprofits with or without 501(c)(3) status, and public and state-controlled institutions of higher education.

Set to take place between April 2024 and April 2025, this funding opportunity aims to significantly contribute to the growth and empowerment of women entrepreneurs in the Pacific, aligning with the broader goal of promoting economic development and public diplomacy. The closing date for applications is December 18, 2023, offering a valuable chance for eligible organizations to play a pivotal role in empowering women entrepreneurs across the Pacific region.