The United States Embassy in Ecuador has announced the launch of the Economic Reactivation for Women and SMEs (PODER) program. This initiative is designed to support women entrepreneurs, particularly those from traditionally marginalized communities, by providing business training, mentoring, and access to a network of business contacts. The program aims to assist these businesses in recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With $2 million in funding, PODER seeks to create a more inclusive environment for small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ecuador. It focuses on empowering women business leaders who have historically been underserved. Michael J. Fitzpatrick, the U.S. Ambassador to Ecuador, stated that "for the United States, supporting women entrepreneurs has a multiplier effect in the community, and in the long term strengthens economies and democracies."
IMPAQTO will serve as the implementing partner for this program within Ecuador. The initiative is expected to benefit women and their SMEs by promoting job creation, conducting knowledge-sharing workshops, and improving family livelihoods.
Participants of the program are anticipated to emerge stronger and more empowered both personally and professionally. This empowerment is intended to help them lead more resilient companies that contribute positively to Ecuador's economy.
The PODER program adds to other efforts by the U.S. Government in Ecuador aimed at training women entrepreneurs. Since 2017, over 1,300 women have participated in programs like the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE).
The United States remains committed to advocating for gender equity and equality globally while empowering women and girls across diverse backgrounds.