UN Women's EXPO 2025 Supports Growth of Women-led Businesses

Organized as part of the regional EXPO initiative by UN Women, with the support of the European Union, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Women in Tech, the European Business Angels Network (EBAN), and local partners Abilitist and the Association of Business Women, the event underscored the vital role of women’s leadership in shaping a sustainable economy.
“The Ministry of Economy and Trade, as a leading institution, together with the Government, promotes and supports women’s entrepreneurship through a range of active measures designed to help women establish and grow their businesses,” said Marjan Risteski, Deputy Minister of Economy and Trade, inviting women to take advantage of available measures to strengthen both their businesses and the economy as a whole.
“Promoting women's entrepreneurship is at the heart of the EU's vision for inclusive and sustainable development. We know from evidence across Europe and the Western Balkans that when women participate equally in the economy, societies grow faster, innovation accelerates, and communities become more resilient,” emphasized Ben Nupnau, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Political and Information Section at the Delegation of the European Union to North Macedonia.
“I see the future as an economy where women-led businesses are the norm, not the exception. We must continue to strengthen the support network – connecting institutions, the private sector, and investors with women entrepreneurs. When women thrive, the whole society moves forward,” noted Vesna Ivanovikj-Castarede, UN Women Head of Office in North Macedonia.
Valentina Disoska, President of the Association of Business Women, added: “Only through joint efforts of all stakeholders and by encouraging women entrepreneurs to take a more active role can we unlock the full potential for economic empowerment – especially for women themselves.”
“Success is not linear. There are ups and downs. Do not be afraid to fall. If you stay persistent and believe in what you do, you will rise stronger than before,” said Elizabeta Jovanovska, Executive Director of Abilitist.
Through this platform, we are building an inclusive economy where women’s innovation, perseverance, and leadership drive sustainable development.