Workshop on financial management and access to banking products for women entrepreneurs
On November 21, 2024, the Albanian Association of Banks (AAB), in partnership with the Women’s Economic Chamber, hosted a workshop titled “Financial management and access to banking products for women in business”. The event was part of Global Entrepreneurship Week, celebrated from November 18-24, 2024, under the auspices of the Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and Business Climate. Bringing together approximately 25 women entrepreneurs from small and medium-sized enterprises, the workshop provided a important platform for sharing experiences and exploring ways to improve access to financial services and banking products.
The opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Spiro Brumbulli, AAB Secretary General, and Ms. Antonela Hako, Chairperson of the Women’s Economic Chamber. Both emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration between the banking sector and women entrepreneurs to address challenges and build a sustainable and productive partnership.
The discussions featured insights from experts in the banking sector, including Ms. Soni Thano, Director of the Risk Division at Credins Bank; Ms. Orjola Baku, Head of Risk Management at Intesa Sanpaolo Bank Albania; and Ms. Genta Ciceri, Director of Sales and Distribution Network at Raiffeisen Bank Albania. These experts shared their institutions’ best practices and strategies aimed at supporting financial inclusion for women entrepreneurs.
The workshop explored opportunities that banks offer to women in business, including preferential financing conditions, the development of tailored products, and increased access to digital services. It also highlighted the importance of initiatives designed to empower women-led businesses, such as training programs and technical assistance, with a particular focus on financing businesses that integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) components. Participants emphasized the need to raise financial awareness and improve education while enhancing communication between banks and businesses. As a forward-looking step, dedicated training programs on e-banking services were proposed to facilitate more efficient and accessible financial solutions.
This workshop marked a significant occasion in supporting women entrepreneurs, contributing to their empowerment and improving their access to finance and banking services. By addressing critical challenges and identifying practical solutions, the event laid a foundation for a stronger, more inclusive partnership between the banking sector and women-led businesses.
