Bahrain has contributed USD 200,000 to the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund, a joint initiative by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC). The fund was launched in February 2024 during the WTO’s 13th Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi with a target of USD 50 million. Its goal is to support women-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) by providing grants, mentorship, and access to international business networks. These resources are intended to help women entrepreneurs take advantage of digital trade opportunities and compete globally.
WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala commented on Bahrain’s contribution: "This contribution from the Kingdom of Bahrain demonstrates a strong commitment to trade, empowering women entrepreneurs and ensuring they are equipped to seize the opportunities of digital trade. By joining the WEIDE Fund partnership, Bahrain is helping to build a more inclusive global trading system where women-led businesses can innovate, grow and create jobs."
Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director of ITC, said: "Bahrain’s support is timely and impactful. It will enable us to reach more women entrepreneurs, particularly those facing barriers in accessing international markets. Together, we are ensuring that women-led businesses not only receive funding but also the tools, skills and networks they need to succeed in the digital economy."
H.E. Mr. Abdulla Abdullatif Abdulla, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent Representative of Bahrain to the UN Office and other international organizations in Geneva, stated: "The Kingdom of Bahrain is proud to contribute to the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund launched by the WTO and ITC, reflecting Bahrain’s strong commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs, advancing their participation in global trade, and supporting inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
"Guided by the vision and directives of our leadership, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Bahrain continues to advance initiatives that foster inclusive development and innovation. Today's contribution also reflects the dedication of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, President of the Supreme Council for Women, to promoting women’s economic empowerment and enabling them to thrive in the digital economy."
Since its launch earlier this year at MC13 Abu Dhabi with joint management from WTO Secretariat and ITC staff overseeing operations for grant distribution as well as mentoring programs aimed at facilitating market access for female entrepreneurs worldwide—the WEIDE Fund has opened application periods in countries including Dominican Republic, Mongolia, Nigeria, and Jordan. Thousands of applications have been received from women seeking support through these windows.
Previous contributions have come from sources such as United Arab Emirates government agencies as well as legacy funds associated with FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022; now joined by Bahrain's donation these efforts continue building towards practical outcomes for women's involvement in international commerce.