SOCAR Türkiye Provides Strong Support for Women Entrepreneurs

SOCAR Türkiye has officially launched the “Women’s Energy in Entrepreneurship” program in collaboration with the Entrepreneurship Foundation of Türkiye (GİRVAK), aiming to support 50 women in Aliağa through an eight-month training and mentorship journey into the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

As Türkiye’s largest direct international investor and leading integrated industrial group, SOCAR Türkiye has added a new initiative to its portfolio of community-focused projects. Launched in partnership with GİRVAK, the Women’s Energy in Entrepreneurship program aims to promote the economic and social empowerment of women. The launch event was held at SOCAR Türkiye’s Refining and Petrochemical Business Unit headquarters in Aliağa.

Designed for women who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET), the program offers a comprehensive pathway to entrepreneurship and skill development. In its first phase, 50 women began their journey toward building sustainable ventures. Over the course of eight months, participants will gain the necessary tools to bring their business ideas to life and benefit from mentorship to support their long-term success in the business world.

Empowering Women Economically and Socially

Speaking at the launch event in Aliağa, Mikayil Yusifov, Head of Communications and Public Relations at SOCAR Türkiye, shared: “Creating social value and contributing to economic development in the regions where we operate is at the heart of our corporate citizenship approach. Aligned with this vision, we take responsibility in empowering women economically and socially through the Women’s Energy in Entrepreneurship program. Supporting women’s participation in business life through entrepreneurship will strengthen sustainable development both at the individual and societal levels.”

Mehru Öztürk, General Manager of the Entrepreneurship Foundation of Türkiye, emphasized the significance of the program: “Entrepreneurship not only enables individuals to gain economic independence, but also acts as a powerful driver of social transformation, fostering innovation and sustainable growth. This program provides women in Aliağa with the knowledge, skills, and support network they need to turn their dreams into viable business models. Without ensuring equal economic participation for women, the entrepreneurial ecosystem cannot reach its full potential. By launching this program together with SOCAR Türkiye, we aim to make entrepreneurship an accessible, empowering, and sustainable journey for women.”

Comprehensive Support for Economic and Social Independence

The Women’s Energy in Entrepreneurship program equips women with key entrepreneurial skills while supporting their economic and social independence through a variety of offerings. Participants will receive psychosocial support in areas such as self-confidence building and stress management. Training in financial literacy and e-commerce will help them gain economic autonomy, while foundational entrepreneurship skills will also be developed.

To foster a spirit of solidarity, the program will include group activities, volunteer projects, and social events. In addition, workshops focused on R&D, innovation, and problem-solving will help participants cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset. Through mentorship programs and networking events — including guidance from female leaders at SOCAR Türkiye — participants will form a strong support network throughout their entrepreneurial journey.

By developing their own business ideas, the women in this program will not only empower themselves but also contribute to regional development.

For more information: www.socar.com.tr/girisimdekadinenerjisi