The international community is taking bold steps to help women-led businesses thrive in digital trade. One of the most promising efforts is the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund, a global initiative spearheaded by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC). The fund is designed to support women-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), especially in developing countries, by boosting their access to global markets through digital tools and platforms.
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Nigeria Among First to Benefit
Nigeria is one of four countries selected for the pilot phase of this impactful program, alongside Jordan, Mongolia, and the Dominican Republic. This places Nigerian women entrepreneurs at the forefront of an opportunity that aims to break digital and financial barriers in global trade. The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) is the official implementing partner for this initiative in Nigeria.
What the WEIDE Fund Offers
The WEIDE Fund has two key tracks, each tailored to meet different stages of business growth:
- Discovery Track: For newer or smaller businesses, this track provides grants ranging from $2,000 to $5,000. The goal is to improve digital skills, enhance business visibility online, and help participants explore new market opportunities over a 9 to 12-month period.
- Booster Track: This is targeted at more established, export-ready businesses. Participants can access up to $30,000 in grant support over 18 months, along with personalized coaching to scale their export operations and enhance digital business strategies.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a woman-led MSME based in Nigeria
- Operate a legally registered business
- Show readiness or potential to export products or services
- Be actively using or planning to use digital platforms in their operations
- Demonstrate the potential for growth and job creation
How to Apply
Applications are now open and will close on May 18, 2025. Interested women entrepreneurs can apply through the official NEPC application portal:
For more details on eligibility and how to apply, visit wto.org/weidefund or contact weidefund@intracen.org.
Don’t miss this chance to scale your business with expert guidance and global trade opportunities.
Backed by Global Partners
Launched during the WTO’s 13th Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi, the WEIDE Fund has already secured an initial $5 million contribution from the United Arab Emirates and aims to raise a total of $50 million. It’s more than just a funding program — it’s a powerful movement toward a more inclusive global economy.