DILI, 16 august 2024 (TATOLI) – U.S. Ambassador to Timor-Leste Donna Ann Welton joined Minister of Trade and Industry Filipus Nino Pereira to launch the Women and Youth Creating Our Future (WYCF) Activity’s Business Incubator Center, created to address the critical need for investment in employment and entrepreneurship initiatives for women and youth in Timor-Leste. The WYCF Business Incubator Center will enhance the capabilities of potential young Timorese entrepreneurs, with a focus on women, offering comprehensive business skills training, practical guidance, and mentorship to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for participants to succeed as entrepreneurs in the competitive market.
Funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Business Incubator Center is part of a five-year, US$7.5 million investment being implemented by the National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA) in collaboration with the Institute of Business (IOB) Timor-Leste. This investment aims to equip young Timorese with practical, market-relevant skills to unlock employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, contributing to the nation’s prosperity.
“The Business Incubator Center provides an environment where young entrepreneurs can access mentorship, training, and networking, and acquire the skills needed to succeed in a competitive market,” said Ambassador Donna Ann Welton.
“USAID’s Women and Youth Creating Our Future Activity is a testament to our commitment to empowering young people, women, and people with disabilities in Timor-Leste, helping them create employment opportunities and drive positive change in their communities,” he said.
Minister of Trade and Industry Filipus Nino Perreira concurred. “This initiative is not just about business,” he said. “It’s more about empowering individuals to create employment opportunities while making a positive contribution to their community and to economic diversification.”
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
