Uganda’s Women Entrepreneurs Shine at dfcu Rising Woman Expo 2025
The dfcu Rising Woman Expo 2025 brought attention to Uganda’s dynamic women-led businesses, turning the UMA Showgrounds in Lugogo into a bustling hub of innovation, collaboration, and opportunity. In partnership with Monitor Publications Limited, dfcu Bank organized the two-day event to celebrate entrepreneurship among women and to create pathways for growth, mentorship, and market access. The expo drew hundreds of women entrepreneurs from across Uganda, as well as supporters, partners, and policymakers who gathered to learn, share, and celebrate achievements in women-owned enterprises.
Building Networks and Access to Capital
A core aim of the expo was to strengthen networks that can translate into tangible business outcomes. Attendees engaged in speed-networking sessions, panel discussions, and one-on-one mentoring with seasoned financiers and industry experts. Investors and banks were present to discuss financing options tailored to women entrepreneurs, including lines of credit, venture funding, and collateral-free loans. The conversations underscored a growing confidence among women business owners who are eager to scale operations, formalize their ventures, and expand into new markets.
Showcasing a Diversity of Sectors
The expo highlighted the breadth of Uganda’s women-led enterprises. From agribusiness and agro-processing to tech-enabled startups, fashion, beauty, and social enterprises, exhibitors demonstrated resilience, creativity, and a strong drive to meet local needs while reaching regional and global audiences. Many participants emphasized value addition, quality upgrades, and effective branding as essential steps toward competitiveness in crowded markets. Workshops on product development, packaging, and e-commerce provided practical guidance that attendees could apply immediately in their businesses.
Mentorship, Training, and Policy Dialogue
Beyond business development, Rising Woman Expo 2025 served as a platform for mentorship and professional growth. Women entrepreneurs connected with mentors who offered guidance on business planning, financial literacy, and leadership. The event also hosted policy-focused discussions on reducing barriers for women in business, simplifying regulatory processes, and expanding access to markets through public-private partnerships. The conversations reinforced a collective commitment to creating an enabling environment for women to thrive as economic contributors.
Impact on Communities and the Economy
Experts attending the expo highlighted the broader social and economic benefits of empowering women entrepreneurs. Increased female entrepreneurship can boost household incomes, improve resilience to economic shocks, and drive innovations that address local challenges in health, education, and employment. As participants return to their communities, many plan to implement new business strategies, adopt digital tools, and collaborate with peers to scale impact beyond their own enterprises.
What’s Next for Rising Woman
Organizers signaled a commitment to making the Rising Woman Expo an annual milestone in Uganda’s entrepreneurial calendar. With ongoing partnerships, targeted mentorship programs, and expanded access to finance, the initiative aims to catalyze sustained growth for women-led businesses. Attendees left with new connections, practical insights, and a renewed sense of empowerment to drive change within their industries and communities.
