Businesswomen from the EMPRO program boost economic growth and employment in the DR

The Empresarias Progresando (EMPRO) program, implemented in the Dominican Republic by INCAE Business School, demonstrates strong results in strengthening women-led businesses, according to the impact assessment carried out six months after the end of the training process. From a total of 532 applications received, 49 businesswomen completed the program, after a process that included leveling, specialized training, and a face-to-face week in Costa Rica. The results reflect significant advances in business growth, job creation, adoption of digital tools, and access to financing. “This program demonstrates that investing in female business leadership is not only a socially responsible decision, but also a clear commitment to the country’s competitiveness,” said Gabriela Lucke, director of the INCAE Impact Center. The Empresarias Progresando program, implemented by INCAE Business School through its Center for Inclusive and Sustainable Leadership, with the support of Mastercard Strive, an initiative of the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, the PriceSmart Foundation, and Banco BHD, has established itself as a high-impact initiative to strengthen women-led businesses, promote financial inclusion, generate employment, and contribute to the sustainable economic development of the Dominican Republic. “This alliance fully aligns with our vision and strategy to drive the growth of women micro-entrepreneurs in the region, recognizing them as a key engine of resilience and financial growth,” said Jonathan Fantini-Porter, Senior Vice President of the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.

Economic and Business Impact

1. The average monthly sales of the participating companies practically tripled, and 27 out of 45 businesswomen reported sustained increases in their average monthly sales.
2. Employment increased by 80%, with the creation of 450 new jobs, almost doubling the total workforce of the participating companies.
3. 82% of the businesswomen developed new business opportunities, mainly through the creation of new products and services.

“PriceSmart Foundation is convinced that investing in the talent and leadership of women entrepreneurs generates a multiplier effect in their communities. This program not only transformed businesses, but also empowered Dominican women and gave them opportunities to generate impact in the society around them,” commented Angela Venza, executive director of PriceSmart Foundation.

Digital Transaction

At the beginning of the program, 22% of female entrepreneurs did not use digital tools for managing their operations. At the end, 100% implemented digital solutions, strengthening operational efficiency and decision-making.

Access to financing

1. 
   69% of businesswomen accessed some type of financing, combining formal, alternative sources and external investments.
2. 
   47% obtained bank loans and, of this group, 76% accessed financing through Banco BHD.

“We are very satisfied with the reach that this first edition of the EMPRO program has had in the Dominican Republic. In terms of access to financing: 38% of the participants improved their financial management and the average financial score went from B to A. Likewise, 22% of the participants increased the use of digital channels for the management of their transactions and finances in general”, commented Adrian Guzmán, senior vice president of the Branch Network of Banco BHD.