History
In June 2011, TechWomen launched with 37 participants from Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco and the Palestinian Territories. In 2012, the program expanded to include women from Tunisia and Yemen. In 2013, the cohort doubled in size with the addition of women from Cameroon, Kenya, Libya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa and Zimbabwe. In 2015, expanded to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The 2017 TechWomen program included women from Pakistan. In 2019, the TechWomen program welcomed over 100 participants from 21 countries. In 2023, the TechWomen program expanded to include mentorship opportunities based in Chicago. And, in 2025 TechWomen will welcome participants from Albania for the very first time!
U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA)
TechWomen is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs’ (ECA) mission is to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries by means of educational and cultural exchange that assist in the development of peaceful relations. As mandated by the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961, the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) works to build friendly, peaceful relations between the people of the United States and the people of other countries through academic, cultural, sports and professional exchanges, as well as public -private partnerships.
In an effort to reflect the diversity of the United States and global society, ECA programs, funding, and other activities encourage the involvement of American and international participants from traditionally underrepresented groups, including women, racial and ethnic minorities and people with disabilities. Artists, educators, athletes, students, youth and rising leaders in the United States and more than 160 countries around the globe participate in academic, cultural, sports and professional exchanges.
The Institute of International Education (IIE)
The Institute of International Education is an independent, not-for-profit organization, serving as a leading resource for students, professionals, and institutions worldwide. The Institute partners with governments, international development agencies, foundations, universities and corporations, leveraging its international networks to collaborate on sustainable solutions for long-term development. We believe that peace and prosperity in the 21st century depend on increasing the capacity of people to think and work on a global and intercultural basis. As technology opens borders, educational and professional exchanges open minds.
Our goals are
- Building and connecting networks of global citizens
- Leveraging innovative partnerships to address global needs
- Investing in emerging and established leaders
- Expanding access to education and professional training
IIE’s vision is a reality in which educational, cultural, and professional opportunities transcend borders to foster a peaceful and interconnected world where all people achieve their full potential, think and act as global citizens, and build inclusive, thriving communities.
