Women's Entrepreneurship Day: Global Inspiration with a Bulgarian Edition

Women's business – the driving force of change

On November 19, the world marks Women's Entrepreneurship Day (WED) – a global initiative that emphasizes the role of women in the economy, innovation, and sustainable development. This day is not just a celebration, but a strategic platform for change, inspiration, and solidarity.

The idea for Women's Entrepreneurship Day was born in 2014 at the initiative of Wendy Diamond — an American businesswoman, philanthropist, and public figure. The event has received international support, including recognition from the United Nations. Today, it is celebrated in over 144 countries and more than 65 universities worldwide.

The goals of the initiative

WED aims to increase the visibility and opportunities for women in business, as well as to promote their economic empowerment. The focus is on creating a supportive environment where women can start, grow, and expand their businesses. The main goals include:

Supporting women-led innovation.
Expanding access to education, resources, and funding.
Encouraging collaboration among women from different business sectors.
Raising awareness about the systemic barriers faced by women entrepreneurs.

Bulgaria as part of the global network

вдъхновител. Bulgaria actively participates in the celebration of Women's Entrepreneurship Day through events organized by the Association of Women Entrepreneurs "Selena." This is the first organization in the country, founded in 2006, with the mission to support women's participation in business and the economy. The ambassador of the initiative for Bulgaria is Slavyanka Stoykova — a businesswoman, leader, and source of inspiration.

Over the years, the Bulgarian edition of WED has become an established platform for meetings between entrepreneurs, investors, speakers, and mentors. The main goal is to create a sustainable community that supports and grows together.

Women's Entrepreneurship Day 2025: What to Expect?

Новото издание на WED в България ще се проведе на 24 november 2025 в Grand Hotel Millennium SofiaThis year, the event joins forces with the business initiative "Leadership Forum: The Art and Lessons of Success."

The program promises double the value with practical benefits, growth opportunities, and inspiration for participants. As per tradition, there will also be an official ceremony for the "Golden Rose" awards, dedicated to women whose work contributes to public life in Bulgaria.

Significance for the local economy and society

According to data from the National Statistical Institute (NSI), over 30% of entrepreneurs in Bulgaria are women. However, many of them face challenges such as limited access to capital, weak institutional support, and a lack of mentorship. Women's Entrepreneurship Day serves as a catalyst for change, offering real solutions through:

Public recognition and visibility for successful business models created by women.

Promoting sustainable policies in support of gender equality.

Opportunities for networking with successful women from various fields of business and society.

Access to information on business innovations that optimize processes and enhance competitiveness.

More than a day, a mission for the future

Women's Entrepreneurship Day is proof that when women have access to opportunities and support, the results go far beyond personal success. It is a day for building new bridges between people and ideas, for expanding horizons, and for affirming the role of women as leaders and innovators.

Bulgaria holds a well-deserved place on the global map of WED. With each new edition of the initiative, we move closer to a society where equal opportunities are not just a goal, but a reality.