Beirut: Fifty-one Lebanese women-led businesses were awarded new grants and will benefit from tailored support in the coming months to expand their businesses locally and internationally through the Women's Economic Empowerment Project. This initiative is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and funded by the Government of Canada.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the awarding ceremony took place at the Lebanese Industry Expo's Seaside Arena in Beirut. It was attended by nearly 200 participants, including Minister of Industry Joe Issa El Khoury, Canadian Ambassador Gregory Galligan, UNIDO Regional Representative Emmanuel Kalenzi, and UNDP Resident Representative in Lebanon Blerta Aliko. Representatives of women-led businesses, government institutions, diplomatic missions, chambers of commerce, and women's associations also participated.
Minister Joe Issa El Khoury highlighted the resilience of Lebanese entrepreneurs, emphasizing the strength of Lebanon's people. He noted that despite challenges, Lebanese entrepreneurs continue to innovate and build trust through quality work. The minister underscored that resilience, creativity, and solidarity are the nation's competitive advantages.
The project has previously supported 45 women-led enterprises in its first phase, allocating USD 706,000 in March 2025 to help sustain production and improve market access after hostilities. With the latest grants, a total of USD 1.106 million has been disbursed to 96 SMEs, with UNIDO providing technical support to boost operations and market reach. The project aims to support over 1,000 women-led businesses in their growth efforts.
Canadian Ambassador Gregory Galligan expressed pride in partnering with UNDP, UNIDO, and the Lebanese government to empower women entrepreneurs. He highlighted the role of these enterprises in driving Lebanon's economic renewal.
The economic landscape in Lebanon is dominated by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which account for 90% of the economy. However, women-led businesses have been significantly impacted by the country's crises, with many forced to suspend or close operations.
Emmanuel Kalenzi of UNIDO remarked that the ceremony was a recognition of the resilience and leadership of Lebanese women entrepreneurs. He celebrated the empowerment of women to innovate and lead businesses.
UNDP's Blerta Aliko emphasized that empowering women in business is crucial for Lebanon's economic recovery and future sustainability. She affirmed UNDP's commitment to supporting small and medium businesses and ensuring women are central to the recovery process.
The new group of beneficiaries, spanning regions such as Beirut, Mount Lebanon, the Bekaa, North, and South Lebanon, operates in sectors like agro-food, cosmetics, and creative industries. Their efforts are expected to create jobs, sustain family incomes, and open new market opportunities.
The event concluded with the inauguration of the 'WEE Booth' at the Lebanese Industry Expo, showcasing products from the 51 women-led businesses across various sectors.