'I'm pleased to announce an upcoming initiative called EMPOWER HER, which will explore ways to encourage U.S. and European companies to support women owned and operated U.S. exporters and business interests abroad,' said Secretary Raimondo, who spoke today at the American Chamber of Commerce to the European Union (AmCham EU)’s Transatlantic Week Conference. 'Investing in women’s success in the economy, as entrepreneurs, exporters and workers, is essential to our global competitiveness. More opportunity for women will increase innovation and growth.'

Both AmCham and the Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration (ITA) are developing this initiative.

Economic security, growth and development in the United States and in Europe relies upon international trade and the ability of small and medium-sized enterprises, including those owned and operated by women, to compete equitably. ITA and AmCham EU today announced their intention to work together to develop strategies and implement activities under EMPOWER HER, such as:

• Establishing a partnership agreement for the initiative to advance women’s economic empowerment and gender equality in international trade.

• Exploring ways to encourage U.S. and European companies to engage in efforts to advance a more diverse and inclusive workplace that supports women, including women-owned and operated U.S. exporters and U.S. business interests abroad.

• Identifying opportunities to improve the business environment for women, including access to e-commerce tools.

• Identifying opportunities and mechanisms to increase awareness of available trade, investment, and export related services, programs, and overseas events.

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About the ITA

The ITA at the U.S. Department of Commerce plays a key role in promoting U.S. exports and providing resources for American companies competing in the global marketplace. ITA has more than 2,200 employees assisting U.S. exporters in more than 100 U.S. cities and 75 markets worldwide. For more information on ITA visit www.trade.gov.

About AmCham EU

AmCham EU speaks for its member companies committed to Europe on trade, investment and competitiveness issues. It aims to ensure a growth-orientated business and investment climate in Europe. AmCham EU facilitates the resolution of transatlantic issues that impact business and plays a role in creating better understanding of EU and U.S. positions on business matters. For more information, please visit www.amchameu.eu.