The ASEAN-Australia Centre is now accepting applications to design and implement the ASEAN-Australia Young Women Entrepreneurs’ Exchange Program. This prestigious four-year initiative aims to empower young female social entrepreneurs from ASEAN member states, Timor-Leste, and Australia through mentorship, leadership development, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Program Overview
- Duration: 2024-25 to 2027-28 (4 years)
- Cohorts: At least one cohort of 27 participants annually (aged 18–39)
- Activities:
- A 12-week mentoring and leadership program
- A one-week visit to Australia for workshops and networking events
- Focus Areas:
- Decarbonisation
- Green energy transition
- Blue economy
- Other priority sectors identified in Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 (sector focus will vary for each cohort).
Objectives and Intended Outcomes
Objectives:
- Equip young female social entrepreneurs with leadership, business, and creative skills.
- Foster connections and collaboration across Australia, ASEAN member states, and Timor-Leste.
Outcomes:
- Support women entrepreneurs in scaling their ventures internationally.
- Enhance women’s economic participation.
- Increase trade, tourism, and investment between Australia, ASEAN, and Timor-Leste.
- Build cross-cultural business networks.
- Strengthen ASEAN-Australia relations.
Funding Details
- Total Funding: AUD 1,800,000
- Covers:
- Travel (economy flights, accommodation up to four-star, meals, and per diems)
- Event costs (venue hire, catering, production)
- Communication and promotional activities
- Labour costs for project delivery
- Interpretation and translation services
Eligibility
To be eligible:
- Activities must align with program objectives and outcomes.
- Eligible activities may include:
- Industry dialogues, trade delegations, and exhibitions
- Conferences, workshops, or major events
- Internships, exchanges, and secondments
- Community engagement and research activities
- Other eligible activities as approved by the Program Delegate.
- Activities must occur in Australia, ASEAN member states, or Timor-Leste.
How to Apply
Preparation:
- Review the guidelines, sample application form, and grant agreement available on GrantConnect.
- Register on GrantConnect to receive updates.
Submission:
- Complete the online application via Smartygrants.
- Provide all requested information and attachments.
- Address eligibility and assessment criteria.
- Submit by the closing date and time.
For Assistance:
Contact Smartygrants:
- Email: se*****@sm**********.au
- Phone: +61 3 9320 6888