2024 Academy of Women Entrepreneurs Program in Consular District Hyderabad

Background
The U.S. Consulate General Hyderabad proposes to create an Academy of Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program in 2024, building on the success of the 2023 program. The goal is to strengthen India’s innovation and entrepreneurship eco-system while advancing the role of women in the economy and workforce. Priority for participation will be given to underrepresented groups, including Muslim women.

Grant Details
The AWE program will consist of a four-month 'workshop' style training and mentorship program for 60 participants, providing training in basic business principles using the established Academy of Women Entrepreneurs/DreamBuilder curriculum. The program will include extensive USG alumni engagement, tap into existing U.S. government-funded resources, and provide additional value to participants. It will also prioritize underrepresented groups, including Muslim women. The program will have four phases: participant selection, in-person orientation workshop, completion of the DreamBuilder curriculum over 14 weeks through self-paced study, and a final two-day capstone workshop with a pitch competition.

Eligibility Requirements
Participants must be women aged 21-45 with limited resources or experience in expanding and formalizing their businesses. They should have a small business in operation for at least six months but no more than two years, or proven working experience with the business idea they would like to implement. Intermediate computer skills and English proficiency are required. Priority must be given to underrepresented groups, especially in Hyderabad.

Period of Performance
The program is scheduled for four months from June to September 2024.

Grant Value
$33,242 is available for one award with a proposed start date of June 20, 2024. The award amounts may range from $33,000 to $33,242.

Place of Performance
The AWE program will be conducted at American Corners in Hyderabad and Vishakhapatnam.