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Doha: Esteemed women entrepreneurs whose businesses are rapidly expanding were honored at the Empretec Women in Business Awards 2026, an event held during the 9th World Investment Forum in Qatar's capital city. The awards, themed 'Women-led businesses and the art of scale,' celebrated women in four categories: leadership, sustainability, innovation, and technology. A total of 52 entrepreneurs were nominated by Empretec centers that had provided them with training and business development services.

The ceremony gathered together business leaders, policymakers, and investors to celebrate these women's accomplishments and connect them with vital resources such as finance, markets, expertise, and networks to further their growth. Notable honorees included Sandra Letio from Uganda, who leads an agribusiness impacting over 5,000 smallholder farmers within the shea and oilseed value chain.

Paula Gianserra from Argentina, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Reforest Latam, was recognized for her groundbreaking work in forest restoration using artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and drone seeding. Aisha Albinali from Qatar, Co-Founder of Wafir, received accolades for her financial technology solution transforming traditional savings practices.

Adriana Fernandes from Brazil, Co-Founder and CEO of Mátrika Special Foods, was acknowledged for her innovative food business catering to those with food allergies and dietary restrictions. Finally, Biobele Oyibo from Nigeria, Co-Founder and CEO of Earlybean, was honored for leveraging technology to enhance financial literacy and inclusion among young people.

Despite the challenges women entrepreneurs face, their efforts are creating jobs, introducing new technologies, and addressing economic, social, and environmental issues. However, expanding these businesses beyond local success requires access to essential resources such as finance, investment, new markets, skilled workers, mentors, and business networks.

During the forum, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Qatari Businesswomen Association signed a Memorandum of Understanding to foster further cooperation and support for women entrepreneurs, promoting women's economic empowerment.