New Program Targets Funding and Growth for Women Entrepreneurs

A new initiative aimed at transforming the landscape for women in business has been launched in Belize, promising to deliver real opportunities, funding, and support to female entrepreneurs across the country.  The project, known as the Catalyze Her Potential initiative, is a collaboration between NIME Belize Incorporated and IDB Lab, and is set to directly benefit two hundred and fifty women entrepreneurs.  Designed to break long-standing barriers to economic growth, the initiative comes at a time when women-led businesses in Belize are steadily increasing, but continue to face challenges in accessing capital, mentorship, and formal training opportunities.  Through this program, participants will receive a combination of incubation and acceleration support, along with mentorship and financial assistance tailored to help them grow and sustain their businesses.  At the launch, Doctor Minerva Pinelo emphasized the importance of creating pathways for women to fully participate in the economy.

Organizers say the project goes beyond simply providing funding. Instead, it aims to build a long-term, sustainable ecosystem where women entrepreneurs can thrive and scale their businesses.  We also spoke with Katia Montenegro-Hoare, who shared insight into what participants and stakeholders can expect as the initiative rolls out.

The Catalyze Her Potential Project is built around three key pillars, specifically, capacity building through an online learning management system, expanded networking and mentorship opportunities both locally and internationally, and a pilot seed capital component that will function as a microfinancing arm for women-led businesses.