The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) reaffirms its dedication to advancing women’s empowerment in the information technology (IT) sector in Central Asia. Today, USAID partners gathered at the IT Park in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, to celebrate the achievements of women in technology and the impact of the Tumaris.Tech and FoundHer initiatives.

The celebration brought together representatives from the Government of Uzbekistan, Tumaris.Tech, FoundHer, IT Park, Plug and Play Uzbekistan, and USAID to showcase the success of these initiatives and their impact on women’s roles in the IT sector.

Tumaris.Tech, launched by IT Park in June 2020 with the support of USAID’s Future Growth Initiative (FGI), is a pioneer program to empower female entrepreneurs in the information technology sector.  Over a two-year period, Tumaris.Tech has expanded beyond Uzbekistan to include five Central Asian countries, training over 200 young women, supporting 46 start-up projects, and contributing to the creation of 50 product prototypes.

FoundHer, a dedicated initiative to foster women’s entrepreneurship, actively sought high-potential business ideas in Uzbekistan and provided business development support over a six-month period. Through its commitment to leveling the playing field for women in Central Asia, FoundHer empowered participants through training and mentorship, culminating in the exclusive Innovation Journey and participation in the 2023 Silicon Valley Winter Summit in the United States.

Jamille Bigio, USAID Senior Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Coordinator, joined the event and expressed enthusiasm for the achievements of program participants, “I am truly honored to stand before you today as we gather to celebrate and champion the incredible achievements of women-led start-ups in our community. This event is not just a showcase of innovation and entrepreneurship; it is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and determination that these remarkable women bring to the forefront of the startup ecosystem.” She also emphasized the pivotal role gender diversity plays in driving innovation and sustainable growth, highlighting the growing numbers of talented and ambitious women in the start-up sphere. Ms. Bigio further noted, “Today, we come together to amplify the voices of these inspiring start-up women who prevailed over challenges and embarked on journeys of passion and purpose.”