Empowering Minorities Through the First “Senior Entrepreneur Competition” in Taiwan

(中央社訊息服務20250717 10:34:33)The Foundation for Yunus Social Business Taiwan was established with the authorization of Professor Muhammad Yunus, 2006 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Chief Advisor of the interim government of Bangladesh, and to the Foundation.—continues to promote the "3ZERO" vision: Zero Net Carbon Emissions, Zero Poverty, and Zero Unemployment. On June 13, 2025, the Foundation collaborated with a community organization to hold the Final of the First Senior Entrepreneur Competition at the Xinyi Women’s Center. The event created an inclusive stage for elderly and marginalized entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams by starting micro-enterprises. More than just a competition, it showcased how empowerment and support can transform lives and spark motivation.

The competition is an extension of the Grameen School, designed to encourage and support micro-entrepreneurs across Taiwan. During the competition, the Foundation provided a lot of training programs to empower participants—many of whom had never taken part in any competition before. These included courses on business plan writing and public speaking, enabling them to learn how to effectively present their business ideas to the public.

From nearly 100 applicants, 18 finalists emerged to take part in the grand final, bringing with them stories of courage and transformation. One story is about Ms. Chi, a single mother once struggling with mental health issues, gradually opened up through the Foundation’s training programs and began selling wellness products. For the first time, she confidently presented her business concept on stage, sharing a renewed version of herself. Another participant, Ms. Hwa, who brought her children along. After facing emotional lows following her divorce, she discovered a new sense of purpose through handmade crafts. Her entrepreneurial journey not only reignited her personal passion but also illuminated a brighter path for her children.

In the opening speech, CEO Juno Wang said: “Even at 84 years old, Professor Yunus continues to champion the Grameen model and Social Businesses. Entrepreneurship is not bound by age—we encourage senior entrepreneurs to stay innovative, keep learning, and fearlessly embrace change.”President Philippa Tsai shared: “We are actively building partnerships across public and private sectors to support elderly and marginalized entrepreneurs. We are especially thankful to the Gan En Sheng Ren Social Welfare Charity Foundation for making this training and competition possible, creating meaningful social impact.”

The Foundation for Yunus Social Business Taiwan will continue its mission of supporting elderly and marginalized entrepreneurs through the ongoing training program. President Philippa Tsai and CEO Juno Wang sincerely invite businesses, organizations, and the public to join hands in supporting this cause. Together, we can build an inclusive and supportive entrepreneurial system and keep the force of social innovation alive. For more information and to collaboration opportunities, please visit the official website: https://www.yunustw.org/