Dr. Donna Marie Wate, AWE coordinator and program team leader (right) presenting the first-ever grant seed project to local entrepreneur Betty Akao, owner of Betzla Art and Craft shop (left).
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BY JOY OFASIA

THE Solomon Islands, the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) 2024 cohort celebrated a key milestone yesterday by presenting its first-ever grant seed project to local entrepreneur Betty Akao, owner of Betzla Art and Craft shop.

The event, held at the National Art Gallery in Honiara, marked a significant step toward empowering women entrepreneurs in the region.

Dr. Donna Marie Wate, AWE coordinator/program team leader, and owner of Mere Care Company Limited, proudly handed over the SBD 5000 grant to Betty, who emerged as the successful applicant from a competitive pool of entrepreneurs.

Funded by the U.S. government and AWE in Papua New Guinea, this grant is part of a larger initiative aimed at fostering women’s economic empowerment through mentorship, training, and financial support.

Betty, who runs her craft shop in the National Art Gallery and registered the business in 2021, expressed her excitement and gratitude upon receiving the grant.

Dr. Donna Marie Wate, AWE coordinator and program team leader (right) presenting the first-ever grant seed project to local entrepreneur Betty Akao, owner of Betzla Art and Craft shop (left).

“I am thankful to AWE and excited to receive this grant seed project initiative. I am ready to make use of this money to help my business grow,” Betty shared with the Solomon Women Newspaper.

As Betty Akao takes this next step in her entrepreneurial journey, she joins a growing network of women across the region and globe empowered to scale their businesses and create lasting impacts in their communities.

The AWE program, which provides a 13-week training course with an in-person component, focuses on building connections, offering mentorship, and providing online resources to strengthen women’s entrepreneurial skills. Betty was one of 30 women entrepreneurs who participated in the 2024 training, marking the first time the program included an in-person element in the Solomon Islands.

The AWE grant initiative is part of the U.S. Department of State’s broader efforts to support women through the White House-led Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative. By providing seed funding, AWE aims to encourage women-led businesses that contribute to local economic growth and community development.


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