Cartier Women's Initiative Awards 2013 to reveal tomorrow's talents in women entrepreneurship

The Award targets women heading an original for-profit initiative in the initial stage. It rewards the winner with a year of personal coaching from some of the world's best business management consultants, $20,000 in funding towards the business, along with worldwide networking opportunities and media exposure.

"The Cartier Women's Initiative Awards reflects the core identity of Cartier, from jewels to laureates, by unearthing great hidden talents and shaping them to reveal their best. This is a wonderful opportunity to support these talented women across the Middle East and North Africa to realize their dreams and help recognize their potential," said Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, who will personally attend the forum and Awards in Deauville.

Eighteen finalists representing the best projects worldwide will be selected in the first phase of the contest. They will receive coaching and media exposure and will be invited to France for the Finale week which will include a presentation in front of the international Jury, entrepreneurship workshops and the Global Meeting of the Women's Forum. At the end of this, six Laureates - one each from Latin America, North America, Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, Middle-East & North Africa and Asia-Pacific will walk away as the winners, receiving an additional year of coaching and $20,000 in funding.

"I am extremely proud of the success the UAE-based contestant - Iba Masood accomplished this year in recognition for her 'Gradberry' project. It is a motivational example to show the way and encourage women initiatives throughout the region", added H.E. Sheikha Lubna.

Since its creation in 2007, 85 finalists representing 75 initiatives has been supported and coached and 26 have been awarded laureates. "The success of the two previous years in the MENA category raises the bar of creativity and talent and suggests a promising edition for 2013. This year again, businesswomen from across the region will shine and act as role models for many successes to come," said Bernard Fornas, President and CEO of Cartier International.

The Awards has been created through a joint initiative between Cartier, the Women's Forum, INSEAD business school and management consultancy McKinsley & Co.