Women and Silicon Valley
Dr. Jassim Taqui
DG Al-Bab Institute for Strategic Studies
Islamabad, September 17, 2021: In a competition featuring some of the most innovative
women-led businesses in Pakistan, a panel of business experts selected 12
startups out of a pool of 476 for the opportunity to pitch their business ideas
to Silicon Valley investors via the U.S. Embassy’s Accelerator Program for Women
Entrepreneurs (APWE). Sponsored by the U.S. government, the APWE promotes
women’s economic empowerment through fostering female entrepreneurship.
Following a rigorous selection process, 75 startups were
shortlisted and received professional feedback and coaching on their
entrepreneurship plans and pitches. The list was further narrowed down to
35 startups who were invited to participate in a virtual pitch competition
modeled after the famous American television series, Shark Tank.
Based on these pitches, a panel of accomplished business leaders selected the
top 12 finalists who will receive the resources, coaching, mentorship, and
sustainable platforms needed to develop business connections with both local
and global investors to prepare for their trip to the United States.
“I know each and every one of you has big dreams to change
your communities and your country” said Assistant Cultural Attaché Juan J.
German in his remarks to participants. “Your interest in women’s empowerment,
entrepreneurship and social development shows how much you care about
Pakistan’s future!” he added.
APWE is one of many U.S. government-sponsored exchanges in
Pakistan. Each year, the U.S. Mission in Pakistan sends more than 800
Pakistanis to the United States on a variety of academic and professional
exchanges.
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