Conference Highlights SA's Women Leaders in Global Supply Chain

By: WE Staff | Tuesday, 16 September 2025

• ‘Trade for Impact’ was held in Bengaluru by WEConnect International, backed by U.S. Department of State
• Women own 20% of South Asian businesses, but under 5% trade globally
• The conference brought 200+ leaders, 18 partnerships, and 22 high-impact events together to shape women’s trade

At the heart of Bengaluru, WEConnect International, backed by the U.S. Department of State, hosted the concluding ‘Trade for Impact’ conference recently. The event was an integral part of the initiative Maximising Women Business Owner Contributions through Trade. The discussions highlighted a striking gap, though women-owned business account for 20% of enterprises in South Asia, fewer than 5% currently participate in cross-border trade.

The conference convened over 200 participants, including business leaders and policymakers, to highlight achievements and set the agenda for the next phase of women’s trade leadership in South Asia. The core of this project works to bridge the critical gap by championing impact sourcing and positioning women on top of the global supply chain. Regional collaboration has been the backbone of the project’s success.

Reflecting on the milestone, Elizabeth Vazquez, CEO & Co-Founder of WEConnect International, shared: “This conference represents the culmination of years of dedicated effort to showcase the power of women in trade. By equipping thousands of women-owned businesses with the skills and connections to compete globally, we are not only empowering entrepreneurs but also strengthening supply chains with greater sustainability and resilience.”

Over three years, the program has transformed opportunities for women in India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. Nearly 5,600 women-owned firms have gained market access, 2,100 entrepreneurs received training, and 4,000 connections led to 100+ corporate partnerships across South Asia.

This initiative has proven to be platform for networking as over 500 corporations were engaged, with 225 in matchmaking sessions and 10 roundtables, creating new supply chain opportunities for women entrepreneurs. It is worth bringing to light that the program has opened pathways for women to thrive with 18 partnerships and 22 high-impact events engaging 2,000+ stakeholders.