Bruh-Ethiopia's Bruh -Enat women's entrepreneurship competition concludes, awarding top innovators

The Bruh-Ethiopia's Bruh -Enat Women's Innovative Business Idea Competition 2025 concluded with a celebratory event at Getfam Hotel, Addis Ababa, where ten outstanding women entrepreneurs were awarded for their groundbreaking business ideas.

The three-month competition successfully concluded, marking a significant milestone in enabling women's entrepreneurship in Ethiopia.

HE Mr. Solomon Soka, State Minister of the Ministry of Labor and Skills, delivered a powerful opening address, reiterating the government's unwavering support for women entrepreneurs and innovators. "We will continue to provide women innovators and entrepreneurs with the necessary resources and platforms to transform their ideas into tangible realities," he stated. "Women success is Ethiopia's success."

The event was further graced by distinguished keynote speakers, including Mr. Boru Shana, Deputy Director of the Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI), who emphasized the crucial role of such initiatives in driving economic growth. Mrs. Cecile Mukarubuga, UN Women Country Representative, highlighted the importance of gender equality in entrepreneurship, and Mrs. Tigist Abate, Vice President of Enat Bank, spoke to the bank’s commitment to providing financial support to women-led businesses.

The program witnessed impressive participation from 612 women across Ethiopia. Following a rigorous selection process, 50 candidates were chosen to participate in a 10-day intensive Biruh-Enat Innovation Boot Camp.

This boot camp provided crucial training, mentorship, and industry insights, empowering the participants to refine their business strategies.

From this group, 30 individuals proceeded to the semi-final stage, and ultimately, a panel of judges selected the top 10 winners.

Out of the ten outstanding winners, Lulit Semunigus, with her innovative venture focused on seas am paest and tahini, secured the top rank. Kalkidan Sode followed, earning second place for her environmentally friendly, reusable sanitation pads made from banana fiber. Mahilet Kashahun received third place for her initiative centered on developing nutritious food that stimulates more milk production in breastfeeding mothers. These three exceptional women were awarded trophies, recognizing their groundbreaking contributions and leadership.

The ten winning entrepreneurs were awarded cash prizes ranging from 500,000 to 100,000 Birr, providing them with essential capital to launch and scale their businesses.

Organized through a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Labor and Skills, the Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI), Enat Bank, and UN Women, the Biruh-Enat competition aimed to nurture and support innovative business ventures led by women across the nation.

The Bruh-Enat competition's successful ending shows the Ministry and partners' dedication to increasing women's economic opportunities. This program proved that women's businesses are vital for Ethiopia's economic growth and a better future for everyone.