Beirut (Enmaeya News) – November 2, 2025
At the Lebanese Industry Expo today, fifty-one Lebanese women-led businesses received new grants and will benefit from tailored support to expand their operations locally and internationally, generating jobs and boosting economic opportunities.
This initiative is part of the Women’s Economic Empowerment Project, implemented by UNDP in collaboration with UNIDO and funded by the Government of Canada.
The awarding ceremony, held at the Expo’s Seaside Arena, brought together nearly 200 participants, including government officials, diplomatic representatives, chambers of commerce, women’s associations, and entrepreneurs.
Minister of Industry Joe Issa El Khoury praised the resilience of Lebanese entrepreneurs, emphasizing that “every challenge in Lebanon is also a chance to innovate, stand out, and build trust through quality and persistence.”
The project builds on earlier support provided to 45 women-led enterprises this year, totaling USD 706,000 in emergency assistance, aimed at sustaining production, improving quality, and enhancing market access.
With today’s grants, the total USD 1.106 million in funding has now reached 96 SMEs, complemented by UNIDO’s technical support to strengthen operations and open new market opportunities.
Canadian Ambassador Gregory Galligan highlighted the role of women entrepreneurs in Lebanon’s recovery, while UNIDO Regional Representative Emmanuel Kalenzi described the event as a celebration of resilience, creativity, and leadership. UNDP Resident Representative Blerta Aliko underscored that supporting women-led businesses not only strengthens economic recovery but also fosters a more equitable and sustainable future.
The new beneficiaries, located across Beirut, Mount Lebanon, the Bekaa, North and South Lebanon, operate in agro-food, cosmetics, and creative industries. Their businesses are expected to create new jobs, sustain family incomes, and unlock further market opportunities. Following the ceremony, the “WEE Booth” was inaugurated at the Expo, showcasing the products of the 51 women-led enterprises to visitors and potential buyers.
