Economic power to women violence survivors

BDE President Carmen A. Vega Fournier and Women’s Advocate Astrid Piñeiro Vázquez.

By The Star Staff

“This initiative seeks to give women survivors not only their voice, but also their economic power,” said Women’s Advocate Astrid Piñeiro Vázquez in a written statement.

The agreement provides financing of up to $3 million and the necessary support to support the creation or expansion of businesses led by women referred through OPM programs. Participants will receive individualized guidance, workshops on financial education, leadership, business formalization, and access to new markets.

“These women won’t just be creating businesses. They’re rebuilding their lives, leading their futures, and making decisions that were previously denied them due to fear and control,” said BDE President Carmen A. Vega Fournier.

This initiative is based on Law 74 of 2023, which recognizes economic violence as a form of abuse. Its manifestations include restricting access to money, impeding professional development, and controlling financial decisions.

The officials agreed that economic empowerment is an effective tool for breaking cycles of violence. The funds can be requested at fixed rates starting at 4 percent, according to the BDE.

For more information, citizens can visit www.bde.pr.gov or call 787-641-4300. They can also visit the BDE centers in San Juan, Ponce, Yauco, or Mayagüez.