Bi Bank and INCAE promote female leadership in Central America with the LEADS Academy program The third edition of the LEADS Academy for Women program, in partnership between Bi Bank and INCAE, concluded with 38 Central American businesswomen who, in three months, generated nearly 230 new jobs. This initiative, which offers 100% scholarships to Central American businesswomen, has already collected 109 success stories and transformations in the small and medium-sized enterprise sector. In this third cohort, 38 businesswomen from Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Panama completed the program with remarkable results. Additionally, 48% improved their market segmentation, and 66% reported an increase in their sales, along with significant progress in their business strategy and the creation of new alliances. Impact and business growth in the region These indicators confirm that investing in the training of women leaders drives productivity, innovation, and economic sustainability in Central America. Gabriela Lucke, director of the INCAE Impact Center, highlighted that the businesswomen of LEADS Academy for Women are stories of transformation and female leadership. For Bi Bank and Corporación Bi, supporting this sector, which has enormous potential, is essential to generate great opportunities in the region's communities. Success stories from Panama and market expansion Among the standout stories of this edition is that of Dioselina De Bell, a recognized Panamanian businesswoman who implemented an acceleration plan that resulted in the creation of 9 new jobs. This alliance with Corporación BI strengthens the female business ecosystem, promoting a vision of inclusive and sustainable development. Mr. Victor Viggiano Guardia, Executive President and General Manager of Bi Bank, affirmed that the entity's commitment translates into a tangible impact, resulting in stronger, more formal, and more competitive companies led by women who inspire new generations. In just three months, this group generated nearly 230 new jobs, and all participants managed to formalize their business operations. A key strategic decision was the acquisition of their own delivery vehicle, which allowed them to expand their reach, reduce logistics costs, and ensure timely deliveries to supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants. Dioselina commented that thanks to the classes and mentorship of the program, she managed to organize her finances, identify costs, outline clear strategies, and increase her sales by 10% in just three months.
