LEE builds on MEDA’s successful approach to its Libyan women’s entrepreneurship program by expanding these activities to a larger segment of Libyan society to include at-risk populations, who may be vulnerable to engaging in extremist activities.  The program releases the untapped economic potential of nascent entrepreneurs and enables more citizens to contribute to Libya’s economic growth. To do this, LEE fosters economic empowerment through business training and access to financing, enabling more people to participate in Libya’s economy. For the business community, the program creates member-owned business associations for networking and builds more effective market linkages. Overall, LEE enhances the role of at-risk populations in the economy, increases stability within communities, and improves the livelihoods of those who have participated in the program.