A collaborative initiative by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC) has announced the opening of applications for support to women exporters through the WEIDE Fund. Backed by a USD 50 million commitment, the fund is aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs to succeed in global markets using digital tools and platforms.
WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala stressed the significance of inclusive access to digital trade opportunities. “Digital trade is reshaping the global economy. Women — including those in developing countries — must be at the forefront. The WTO-ITC WEIDE Fund is about powering growth, innovation, and job creation. It reflects the WTO’s broader commitment to sustainable and inclusive re-globalization, where no one is left behind.”
The WEIDE Fund offers two types of grants. The Discovery Grant provides up to USD 5,000 for early-stage businesses exploring digital trade opportunities. The Booster Grant offers up to USD 30,000 for businesses prepared to expand their digital presence globally. The fund also provides technical assistance, mentorship, and access to international business networks. The initiative aims to enhance long-term competitiveness and resilience of women-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in e-commerce and digital trade.
ITC Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton focused on the need to remove barriers for women in global trade. “ITC is committed to breaking barriers for women exporters and ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed in the digital economy. The WTO-ITC WEIDE Fund is an opportunity for women-led businesses to access not only funding but also the expertise and networks critical for long-term success.”
On March 7, the WEIDE Fund selected four pilot beneficiary countries: Dominican Republic, Jordan, Mongolia, and Nigeria. Business support organizations in these countries will implement programmes to assist women entrepreneurs in expanding their businesses through international trade and digitalization.
To qualify for support, women-led businesses must be registered and operational in the selected countries, export-ready, and able to show business growth potential and job creation prospects. The application period runs from April 22 to May 18, 2025, for the Dominican Republic, Mongolia, and Nigeria, with applications from Jordan to be accepted later.
In each selected country, the WEIDE Fund works with local business support organizations to enhance outreach and engagement, including ProDominicana, Jordan Enterprise Development Corporation (JEDCO), Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI), and Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC).
This initiative has received support from the United Arab Emirates and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Legacy Fund. For more information on eligibility and the application process, visit wto.org/weidefund or contact weidefund@intracen.org.