Nominations open for Women in Business Awards 2026 (Timor-Leste)

The Awards focus on recognizing excellence in careers, businesses, and entrepreneurial ventures, encouraging role models who inspire others, promoting gender equality, diversity, good governance, and financial inclusion, and acknowledging initiatives that advance diversity and financial inclusion for women through innovative projects, policies, and practices.

The Women in Business Awards 2026 is hosted by the International Finance Corporation and the Associação Empresarial das Mulheres de Timor-Leste in partnership with the Governments of Australia and New Zealand, under the patronage of the President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. The initiative highlights the importance of empowering women and supporting inclusive growth across sectors.

The awards are structured across multiple categories that recognize both individuals and organizations. These include initiatives promoting financial inclusion and the growth of women-led businesses, as well as awards for women-led businesses in Dili and municipalities, women leaders, and women in financial services. The categories acknowledge achievements ranging from established businesses and startups to leadership roles and innovation in financial services.

Nominees can come from public, private, corporate, or civil society sectors, but must be associated with organizations based in Timor-Leste. Each nomination must clearly demonstrate the candidate’s achievements and suitability for the selected category.

Each individual or organization can submit nominations for up to two categories, and separate forms are required for each nomination. Winners are expected to attend the award ceremony in Dili to receive their recognition. Previous award winners are not eligible to apply again, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further information.

For more information, visit AEMTL.