World Education Laos, through funding from the U.S. Department of State, established the first-ever Women’s Entrepreneurial Center (WEC) in Laos in 2017. The WEC’s goal is to foster the development of women-owned sustainable small businesses in Laos by providing a space for incubating new business ideas and supporting the growth of existing businesses. Located in Vientiane Capital, the WEC offers in-house trainings on small business management, access to finance, online marketing, and basic English for business. The Center also provides scholarships to women from throughout Laos to attend extended vocational trainings on tailoring, hairdressing, weaving, and natural dyes, accompanied by business training and mentoring.
The WEC works in partnership with the Lao Women’s Union, the Lao Handicraft Association, the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Lao Business Women’s Association, and the Lao Microfinance Association to provide these services. Visit the WEC’s Facebook page to find out about recent trainings and opportunities to participate, and watch the video below to learn more: