OSON Strengthens Women-led Businesses in Karakalpakstan through AWE Programme

As part of the implementation of a memorandum with the U.S. Embassy in Uzbekistan, the fintech holding OSON has become a financial partner of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE). The project aims to systematically develop the SME (small medium entrepreneur) sector in the Republic of Karakalpakstan through grant funding for business education.

This initiative reflects the company’s CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) strategy: a shift from ad-hoc charity to long-term investment in human capital and regional economic stability.

Key Selection Metrics (AWE 3.0): High demand for participation confirmed the program’s relevance for regional business.

Selection Funnel: Out of 86 applications, 54 candidates advanced to the interview stage. Based on an assessment of scalability and business model sustainability, 34 finalists received educational grants.

Geography: 74% of participants represent Nukus, while 26% are from regional districts, indicating growing entrepreneurial activity in the periphery.

Portfolio Sector Structure: The finalists’ projects demonstrate a diversification of women’s business that goes beyond traditional sectors:

IT & EdTech: Development of digital products and private educational centers.

Production & ESG: Craft projects with a focus on upcycling and sustainability.

Foreign Trade & Retail: Export-oriented projects (local products) and retail.

Media & HoReCa: Content creation, food service, and the service economy.

For OSON, supporting AWE is a tool for building a mature business ecosystem, where access to quality education acts as a driver for economic growth and income legalization in the region.