Larnaca, Cyprus. Cyprus hosted the launch of the Mediterranean project SheEmpower in Larnaca, aimed at boosting the competitiveness of women-led businesses through entrepreneurship, digital and innovation skills under the Interreg NEXT MED programme.
Kick-off meeting and participants
The Larnaca and Famagusta District Development Agency (Anetel), acting as lead partner, organised the kick-off meeting in early February at the environmental information centre in Larnaca. The event welcomed representatives from Cyprus, Spain, France, Italy, Egypt and Lebanon.
Project structure and objectives
According to a statement, the project is structured in five work packages and is intended to strengthen transnational cooperation, knowledge exchange and networking across the region. By creating a Mediterranean ecosystem for women entrepreneurs, SheEmpower aims to accelerate innovation, enhance competitiveness and contribute to inclusive economic growth. It also seeks to promote inclusive economic growth and job creation by supporting the establishment of new businesses by women and improving their access to regional and cross-border markets.
Funding, timeline and planned activities
The project is co-financed by the European Union, with a total budget of €2,747,000, including an EU contribution of 89 per cent, and a duration of 30 months from December 5, 2025, to December 6, 2028. Implementation will include training for 280 female entrepreneurs, a structured mentorship programme for 140 participants, and e-business skills development for a further 140. Partners will also develop the SheEmpower MEDe-Store digital platform to promote and commercialise women-created products and services. The programme will provide specialised support to 20 women establishing new businesses, organise an Innovation Award and Innovation Fair, and establish the SheEmpowerMED Regional Network involving 500 entrepreneurs.
How do you think the SheEmpower MEDe-Store digital platform could affect access to cross-border markets for women-led businesses?
