Bahrain has announced a contribution of USD 200,000 to the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund, a joint initiative managed by the World Trade Organization (WTO) Secretariat and the International Trade Centre (ITC). The fund was launched in February 2024 at the WTO's 13th Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi with an overall target of USD 50 million.
The WEIDE Fund aims to support women-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) by providing grants, mentorship, and access to international business networks. The goal is to help women entrepreneurs leverage digital trade opportunities and increase their competitiveness in global markets.
WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala commented on Bahrain's support: "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."
ITC Executive Director Pamela Coke-Hamilton added: "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, application windows for WEIDE Fund support have opened in several countries including Dominican Republic, Mongolia, Nigeria, and Jordan. Thousands of women entrepreneurs have applied for assistance so far. Other contributors include United Arab Emirates as well as FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Legacy Fund.