The Kingdom of Bahrain has strengthened global efforts to support women‑led businesses by contributing USD 200,000 to the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund, a joint initiative of the WTO and the International Trade Centre (ITC). The fund aims to help women entrepreneurs build digital skills, access export markets and grow their micro, small and medium‑sized enterprises.

The WEIDE Fund, launched in 2024 during the WTO’s Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi, provides financial support, mentorship and access to international business networks. Bahrain’s latest contribution reinforces its commitment to expanding opportunities for women in global trade and promoting inclusive economic development.

WTO Director‑General Ngozi Okonjo‑Iweala and ITC Executive Director Pamela Coke‑Hamilton both welcomed the donation, noting that it will help reach more women facing barriers in digital commerce and international markets.

How the WEIDE Fund Is Opening Global Markets for Women Entrepreneurs

Bahrain’s Permanent Representative in Geneva, Abdulla Abdullatif Abdulla, said the contribution reflects the country’s long‑standing focus on empowering women and supporting innovation‑driven growth. He highlighted national initiatives championed by Bahrain’s leadership to advance women’s economic participation.

The WEIDE Fund has already opened application rounds in countries such as the Dominican Republic, Mongolia, Nigeria and Jordan, attracting thousands of women entrepreneurs. With support from partners including the UAE and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Legacy Fund, the programme continues to expand its global reach.