A celebration of Filipino women’s entrepreneurial spirit unfolds this week as graduates of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) showcase their businesses at a three-day trade fair in Quezon City.
Happening from August 1 to 3 at the Activity Center of Gateway Mall 1 in Cubao, the fair features over 30 homegrown brands, from artisanal creations to modern spins on local delicacies, developed by women who have completed the US-led AWE program.
Organized by the US Embassy in the Philippines and SPARK! Philippines, the trade fair aims to empower women entrepreneurs by helping them reach new audiences, build networks, and explore growth opportunities.
“The fair is more than just a marketplace. It is a celebration of women’s resilience, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit,” said SPARK! Philippines executive director Maica Teves said.
US Ambassador to the Philippines Marykay Carlson noted that since the launch of AWE in the Philippines in 2020, it has helped hundreds of women scale their businesses, create jobs, and contribute to economic resilience.
“Through AWE, we celebrate the contributions of women entrepreneurs to our strong bilateral economic relationship as partners in prosperity,” she said.
The event is held in partnership with the Quezon City government under Mayor Joy Belmonte and the J. Amado Araneta Foundation.
The trade fair is a key feature of the AWE Philippines Summit 2025, a three-day gathering of 100 AWE alumnae from seven implementing sites – Bacolod City, Baguio City, Manila, Puerto Princesa City, Quezon City, Bohol, and Zamboanga del Sur.
The summit, which opened on July 29 in Manila, offers participants a chance to learn from seasoned entrepreneurs, connect with industry mentors, and sharpen their skills through hands-on workshops.
