Women entrepreneurs face numerous challenges worldwide, ranging from gender-based discrimination and limited access to financial resources to cultural biases and societal expectations. WEConnect International supports women entrepreneurs to overcome challenges by fostering business growth and empowering women-owned businesses in the global market.

What is WEConnect International?

WEConnect International is a global nonprofit organization that focuses on empowering and supporting women-owned businesses to succeed in the global market. The organization’s priority is to connect women entrepreneurs with corporate buyers and assist them in gaining access to new business prospects, networks and training. 

WEConnect International operates in 134 countries around the world, with a particular focus on supporting women-owned businesses in emerging markets and developing countries. 

Although women represent half of the world’s population, they face systemic discrimination in the job market. Women entrepreneurs have a harder time than men getting the resources, credit, knowledge, technology and networks they need to succeed in the workplace. 

WEConnect International’s Initiatives and Programs 

WEConnect International supports women entrepreneurs through several key initiatives. Firstly, the organization offers a certification program for women-owned businesses. This certification assists businesses in gaining recognition and credibility, particularly when bidding for contracts with firms and organizations that encourage inclusion and diversity in their supplier chains. 

WEConnect also provides workshops and capacity-building initiatives to assist women entrepreneurs in advancing their business expertise and knowledge. 

For instance, through a partnership with the Moody’s Foundation, the organization offers free expert-level training programs providing women-owned businesses with expertise and financial skills. 

Additionally, a central aspect of the organization is to provide networking opportunities and market access to women-owned businesses. Women entrepreneurs have a platform to connect with possible partners and customers through WEConnect International. To foster links between firms wishing to diversify their suppliers and women-owned businesses, the organization organizes events, conferences and matchmaking sessions.  

Finally, WEConnect International supports women entrepreneurs by advocating for policies and practices that support women’s economic empowerment and gender equality in business. It also conducts research to identify barriers and opportunities for women entrepreneurs.  

Success Story of Dian Kurniawati and Her Company Tridi Oasis 

Dian Kurniawati established Tridi Oasis to recycle plastic bottles and create income opportunities for local families. Her business rapidly grew and expanded its processing capacity after strategic partnerships. Dian’s quest for growth led her to WEConnect International, where she participated in the P&G Women Academy Training. Through WEConnect International, Tridi Oasis became a proud grant recipient from the Alliance to End Plastic Waste, which considerably helped the company grow further. 

Tridi Oasis is still committed to its goal of recycling as much disposable plastic as it can and is now able to increase its positive impact and promote a sustainable future with the support of WEConnect International’s assistance. 

Importance of Women’s Economic Empowerment 

There is significant research on the importance of women’s economic empowerment and the advantages of working with women-owned firms. Women’s economic empowerment promotes gender equality and helps break down traditional gender roles, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society where women have the same opportunities as men to participate in economic activities and decision-making processes.

Additionally, women represent a substantial portion of the global population, and their participation in the workforce can drive economic growth. Women are not only powerful consumers but also influential decision-makers. Businesses that collaborate with women-owned enterprises can access new market niches and better comprehend and serve the needs of female consumers.

According to a report by Booz & Company, women worldwide make up the “third billion” in emerging countries, following China and India’s first and second billion populations. It states, for instance, that the overall GDP would increase by 5% if female employment rates in the United States were to match male employment rates. 

Through its range of programs and initiatives, WEConnect International supports women entrepreneurs and plays a pivotal role in empowering them to overcome challenges and thrive in the global market. As women entrepreneurs continue to make significant contributions to the global economy, WEConnect International remains a driving force in supporting their success, amplifying their voices and advocating for a more equitable future.

– Hannah Klifa
Photo: Flickr