AccessBank, a long-standing supporter of sustainable entrepreneurship in Azerbaijan, proudly announces the successful completion of the Access2Success project for the fourth consecutive year. Implemented within the framework of the Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy and supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the initiative aims to strengthen women’s entrepreneurship in Azerbaijan and unlock the full potential of women-led businesses.

This year, the programme attracted significant interest, with more than 300 applications submitted. Following a competitive selection process, 50 women entrepreneurs successfully completed the programme, enhancing their skills and knowledge in business management, sales and marketing, leadership and emotional intelligence, legal aspects of business operations, and financial literacy. The training sessions were delivered by experienced industry experts and AccessBank specialists.

Davit Tsiklauri, Chairman of the Management Board of AccessBank, commented:
“Supporting the development of sustainable entrepreneurship models is a key priority for AccessBank. Through the Access2Success programme, we strengthen the knowledge and skills of women entrepreneurs, enabling them to develop their businesses with greater confidence and sustainability. We sincerely thank the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development for its valuable support. AccessBank remains committed to continuing and expanding this initiative in the years ahead.”

Samir Hamidov, Principal Manager, SME Finance & Development Group, EBRD added:
“Supporting the non-oil sector, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, is a central priority for the EBRD in Azerbaijan. The Access2Success initiative, implemented in partnership with our strategic partner AccessBank, is an exemplary programme that makes a tangible contribution to the sustainable development of women’s entrepreneurship. The EBRD will continue to support high-impact initiatives of this kind in the future.”

Launched in 2022, the Access2Success project engages approximately 50 women entrepreneurs each year. To date, more than 200 women have participated in the programme. Participants representing sectors such as consulting, tourism, education, healthcare, creative industries, culture, and others have benefited from six weeks of intensive training, acquiring both theoretical and practical knowledge, which has provided them with a solid foundation for the continued growth and development of their businesses.