Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Italy, September 23 Graduation Day

Graduation Day of the second edition of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Italy, an international program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and implemented with the University of Naples Federico II, in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Italy. AWE supports and enhances female entrepreneurship and does so through intensive training and mentoring aimed at developing ideas and projects of young women.

On Sept. 23, 2025 at 9 a.m., at the Aula Magna of the San Giovanni a Teduccio Campus of the University of Naples Federico II, the participants, led by Cristina Mele, scientific head of the Academy, will present their final pitches, illustrating the projects developed during the Academy and demonstrating the innovative potential of their initiatives. Afterwards, special prizes and awards dedicated to innovation, social impact, entrepreneurial vision and effective communication will be presented. And finally, the presentation of diplomas.

The ceremony will be attended by Matteo Lorito, Rector of the Federico II; Marta Costanzo Youth, Deputy U.S. Ambassador to Italy; Valeria Fascione, Councillor for Research, Innovation and Start-up of the Campania Region; and Antonio Pescapè, University Delegate for Innovation and Third Mission and Director of DIGITA Academy.

The program was realized in collaboration with outstanding partners such as Business Design Italia, Campania NewSteel, Fipe - Women Entrepreneurs Group, GammaDonna, Intesa Sanpaolo, Woman&Tech.

The AWE Italy 2025 graduation is a moment of enhancement of female talent and an opportunity for dialogue between academia, institutions and businesses, strengthening the commitment of the University of Naples Federico II in promoting female entrepreneurship as a lever of development and inclusion.