On November 19, we commemorate International Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, a day to honor the talent, courage, and determination of women who are transforming the world with their ideas and actions. In Paraguay, Fundación Paraguaya leads this movement by supporting over 80,000 women micro-entrepreneurs with financial inclusion, training, and education, reinforcing the role of Paraguayan women—recognized as «the most glorious of the Americas»—as engines of social and economic development.
International Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, established by the United Nations Council, provides an opportunity to reflect on the challenges women face in the business world and to highlight their crucial role as agents of change. On this day, we celebrate the ingenuity, passion, and resilience of women who not only launch businesses but also create a positive impact on their families and communities.
In Paraguay, where women are acknowledged as «the most glorious of the Americas,» female entrepreneurship stands as a symbol of progress and hope. Fundación Paraguaya, an institution committed to empowering women, works with over 80,000 micro-entrepreneurs who are part of Women’s Committees across the country.
These committees are much more than meeting spaces; they are support networks where women gain access to affordable credit, practical training, and financial education, empowering them to manage their businesses successfully. Additionally, they benefit from initiatives that enhance their self-esteem and leadership abilities, helping to bridge the gender gap in the economic sphere.
The impact of this work is measured not only in numbers but also in life stories. Rosa, an entrepreneur from Itapúa, transformed her small food stall into a thriving business that now provides employment to other women in her community. Like her, thousands of Paraguayan women are demonstrating that with access to resources and knowledge, they can overcome barriers and take control of their destinies.
However, this day also calls attention to the challenges that remain. Gender inequality, limited access to financing, and cultural biases continue to be obstacles many women face when starting a business. This is why initiatives like those of Fundación Paraguaya are essential for building a future where all women have equal opportunities to grow and succeed.
On this International Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, let us celebrate the collective effort to empower women, recognize their talent, and open doors for their comprehensive development. When a woman takes the lead in entrepreneurship, the positive impact multiplies, benefiting society as a whole. Congratulations to all women entrepreneurs who, through their hard work and determination, transform lives and create a more just and inclusive world!