Through certification, education, and high-impact events, WEConnect International delivers business solutions at scale—accelerating growth for women-owned businesses and measurable impact for buyers committed to sourcing with purpose.
We identify and verify businesses that are at least 51% owned, managed, and controlled by one or more women
We maintain WECommunity, our global database of registered and certified Women-Owned Businesses active in over 135 markets
Certified businesses may also use the Women Owned Logo an internationally recognized symbol that helps consumers and buyers identify products and services from certified women-owned businesses.
4
ADVISE & ACCELERATE ACTION
2
EDUCATE AND BUILD CAPACITY
We equip women business owners with the knowledge, tools, and training to scale.
Through WEConnect Academy and local programs, we deliver both foundational business skills and buyer-specific guidance.
We offer in-language content and regional events tailored to local needs and global readiness.
We support buyers, donors, government agencies, and institutions in building or expanding their supplier development and engagement efforts
We provide baseline mapping, ecosystem development, data and strategy support, and training on best practices.
We collaborate with funders to design and deliver regional and global initiatives that drive measurable results at scale
3
CONNECT TO BUYERS
We create meaningful, businessready connections between women-owned businesses and buyers.
Our events, summits, and matchmaking platforms enable real-time opportunities to connect and do business
We work closely with our member buyers to support supplier discovery, development, and integration
WECONNECT ACADEMY
EMPOWERING WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES TO LEARN, GROW, AND COMPETE
Women completed training through WEConnect Academy and other WEConnect International programs in 2024
We’re investing in an upgraded Academy platform to deliver: More on-demand, self-paced courses
Interactive content that adapts to real business challenges
Specialized learning tracks for different industries and growth stages
Sustainable Supply Chain Training
With rising demand for ethical and sustainable sourcing, we launched new training modules that:
Equip women-owned businesses to meet global sustainability and compliance standards
Help suppliers turn environmental responsibility into competitive advantage
Highlight the power of generative AI tools for business
Unlocking Opportunity Through Innovation
We’re scaling our education programs through:
Strategic partnerships with funders and institutions
Digital innovations that increase access and engagement
A deeper commitment to long-term business resilience
INITIATIVES FROM AROUND THE WORLD DRIVING GROWTH + IMPACT
Across the globe, WEConnect International collaborates with funders, governments, and institutions to drive scalable solutions for women-owned businesses These flagship programs demonstrate how strategic investment delivers measurable outcomes in financial resilience, market access, and policy transformation.
INTERNATIONAL DAY 2024 – DENVER, COLORADO
On March 18, 2024, WEConnect International hosted its flagship global event in Denver, Colorado, bringing together 300+ global attendees for a day of matchmaking, networking, and strategic dialogue
The event welcomed 162 women entrepreneurs from 20 countries, with 113 certified by WEConnect International and/or WBENC. Buyers from 48 WEConnect International member corporations representing 25% of the global membership joined the event, alongside additional non-member buyers and government representatives from the U.S., Canada, and Spain. With a strong buyer-to-supplier ratio and an unprecedented level of global representation, the event proved the power of international partnerships to drive strategic sourcing and scale women-owned businesses worldwide.
All International Day attendees who completed the post-event survey said they made NEW connections with women-owned businesses at the event.
ANNUAL GALA –WASHINGTON, D.C.
On May 15, 2024, WEConnect International welcomed more than 250 global leaders and advocates to Washington, DC for our annual Gala, celebrating the theme “Elevating Women’s NetWORTH with our NetWORK.” The evening honored the Top Global Champions, recognizing companies that are leading the way in strategic sourcing across industries and regions. Guests heard from inspirational speakers and helped raise critical funds to advance our mission of driving more money into the hands of women business owners worldwide
GLOBAL SYMPOSIUM –WASHINGTON, D.C.
The 2024 Symposium gathered over 100 member buyer professionals for a targeted day of learning, collaboration, and strategic planning With 13 sponsoring member buyers and participation from eight prospective member companies, the Symposium focused on equipping leaders to encourage more women to compete for their business. Top-rated sessions addressed sustainability, global Tier 2 strategies, and scaling strategic sourcing programs. As WEConnect International continues to grow its global member community, the Symposium remains a critical space to accelerate collective action and advance impact.
GLOBAL
BUILDING FINANCIAL RESILIENCE FOR WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS
Global Training Program
With expert-led bootcamps and peer networking, this program helped women-owned businesses across Latin America, Africa, and Asia boost access to capital and improve long-term business sustainability showcasing the power of localized, hands-on fi i l i i
SOUTH ASIA
MAXIMIZING WOMEN BUSINESS OWNER CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH TRADE
U.S. Department of State Program in South Asia
This multi-country initiative in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the Maldives fostered strategic networking, addressed policy barriers, and secured measurable commitments to strategic procurement from public and private sector leaders.
From regional summits to local matchmaking events and targeted training programs, WEConnect International drives impact on the ground in major markets. Each region plays a critical role in expanding access, strengthening partnerships, and delivering results for women-owned businesses and member buyers worldwide.
IMPACT BY REGION
Africa is home to a dynamic and growing community of women entrepreneurs yet systemic barriers continue to limit their access to large procurement opportunities, financing, and business networks In 2024, WEConnect International expanded its work across the region, partnering with global institutions to break down barriers, accelerate certification, and deliver high-impact matchmaking that opens the door to global markets.
Offering certification in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.*
Women-owned businesses in Kenya trained in procurement readiness
Women entrepreneurs engaged in corporate buyer matchmaking across Nigeria, South Africa, and the continent
Partnerships signed and platforms launched with IFC, UPS, ExxonMobil, IBM, Corteva, Sanofi, Ericsson, and others
Meet the Member Buyer events hosted
Women-owned businesses convened at the Africa Regional Conference in Johannesburg
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Procurement Readiness in Kenya
Through the IFC’s Sourcing2Equal Kenya initiative, over 1,300 women-owned businesses received training in procurement readiness, with 800 gaining deep knowledge in bid preparation, compliance, and corporate engagement. Custom workshops aligned with five major buyer partners created real-time, practical access to markets.
Accelerating Certification and Corporate Access
In the third year of a multi-country partnership with UPS, WEConnect International supported 46 women-owned businesses in Nigeria and South Africa to join WECommunity, with 16 advancing toward certification. Targeted training and corporate engagement helped drive new opportunities in supply chains once closed to women
Roundtable: Strategic Connections Across Africa
To bridge the connection gap between entrepreneurs and decision-makers, WEConnect International worked with a strategic member to host a high-level roundtable where 50+ women entrepreneurs met with buyers to explore procurement pathways, digital transformation, and strategic partnerships
IMPACT BY REGION
“The certification has been the single best way to generate new business over the past six months.”
Carmen García Sanz, Cocota, Brand & Studio Design
Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa (MENA) continued to be a key region for growth in 2024, with an emphasis on high-impact matchmaking events, regional collaboration, and building stronger engagement with both women-owned businesses and member buyers Inperson and virtual programming helped drive connections, skills development, and long-term business opportunities
Offering certification in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.*
Attendees brought together at local matchmaking events held in Toledo, Munich, Madrid, London, Leverkusen, and Zurich
1,415
6
New local and regional member buyers joined the network
Attendees welcomed at the regional conference in Paris, featuring 2,750+ business matchmaking meetings and participants from 34 countries
80,000+
Business connections facilitated
Women business owners reached through virtual capacitybuilding events
6,600+
Stakeholders trained through regional programming
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Creating Market Access in Spain
In Toledo, WEConnect International brought together more than 150 participants for a business matchmaking event. With more than 250 meetings and 13 multinational buyers in attendance, the event showcased the power of connection to drive real business opportunities and expand access to supply chains in Spain.
Expanding Opportunities in the DACH Region
In collaboration with the Ve Unternehmerinnen (VdU), W International hosted 75 wo businesses and corporate Munich to explore new ave collaboration. The event ma milestone in growing oppo women-owned businesses DACH region, with a strong building relationships and u access to regional and glob
IMPACT BY REGION
Expanding Access Through Virtual Learning
With 65 virtual events tailored for the region, WEConnect International continued to build the capacity of women-owned businesses through digital training on procurement readiness, sustainability, and market expansion.
Regional Conference in Paris
Hosted in collaboration with advocacy partners across Europe, the 2024 regional conference brought together 350+ women business owners and 247 corporate buyers representing 73 multinational companies. The event featured extensive matchmaking, peer learning, and cross-market connections with representation from 34 countries and 39 partner organizations.
IMPACT BY REGION
"Thanks
Carolina Montoya, EcoMedia Web & Multimedia
Latin America continues to be one of our most vibrant regions, marked by cross-market collaboration, strong engagement with global and local buyers, and creative approaches to empowering women-owned businesses
In 2024, programs across Brazil, the Andean Region, and Mexico delivered high-value matchmaking, training, and international exposure to help women entrepreneurs scale with confidence
Offering certification in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, and Peru.*
1,000+
Women-owned businesses trained across the region
1,000+
Connections made at the Regional Conference in Mexico
Multinational buyers were engaged in direct programming
Events hosted, including webinars, matchmaking sessions, and Meet the Member gatherings
4,500+
Women-owned businesses registered and supported through WECommunity
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Driving Engagement in Brazil
WEConnect International in Brazil led a dynamic mix of in-person and virtual programming, connecting women-owned businesses with buyers and creating new opportunities for growth, visibility, and collaboration
130+ certified women-owned businesses participated in matchmaking sessions
15+ member buyers engaged through targeted events
400+ business connections facilitated
7 webinars delivered to support education and engagement
3 meet-the-member sessions held with Accenture, Hershey’s, and Suzano
Women-owned retail catalogue launched in collaboration with Apex, Integrare, and EY Winning Women
Matchmaking & Training in the Andean Region
In Colombia, Ecuador, and Chile, WEConnect International hosted a range of activities to strengthen the regional network
Matchmaking session in partnership with Pfizer, a recognition event with ANDI Antioquia, and a cross-border networking session with women entrepreneurs from Spain
More than 1,000 women business owners participated in training covering new market strategies, behavioral science, franchising, the care economy, and STEM. Efforts helped prepare women business owners for international expansion and participation in global events such as the European Regional Conference.
Regional Conference in Mexico
The 2024 Latin American and Caribbean Regional Conference hosted in Monterrey, Mexico, convened over 150 attendees for two days of panels, workshops, inspiring talks, and matchmaking More than 1,000 business connections were made, with 30 speakers and 20 multinational corporations participating The event demonstrated growing momentum for strategic sourcing in Latin America and underscored the critical role of womenowned businesses in driving prosperity across the region.
IMPACT BY REGION
Sustainability Training in Costa Rica
WEConnect International delivered sustainability training for women entrepreneurs in Costa Rica. The program focused on integrating finance and environmentally responsible practices into business operations, helping participants align with emerging ESG standards and expand their market opportunities
"Participating in business matchmaking through WEConnect International has allowed us to expand our markets and strengthen our presence throughout the region."
Belén Galera, Dígito57
IMPACT BY REGION
“By becoming WEConnect certified, I gained entry into a powerful global network of women business owners—and corporate buyers seeking to do business with women suppliers.”
Kalyne Romaine Envision Global Solutions
North America continues to be a powerful growth engine for the WEConnect International community
In 2024, we saw significant momentum in Canada and the U.S. with record growth in certified women-owned businesses, deeper regional partnerships, and expanding interest in global opportunities among WBENC-certified companies.
The region also played a key role in advancing strategic sourcing across certifying bodies and sectors.
Offering certification in Canada and the United States (foreign-owned)
400+
Certified womenowned businesses reached in Canada, driven by the value of 3-year certification
2,000+
Business connections facilitated through inperson and virtual meetings
80+
U.S.-based WBENCcertified businesses joined WEConnect International to expand globally
400+
Attendees convened at DEFY, Canada’s largest collaboration in support of underutilized suppliers
1,750+
Women business owners trained through in-person and virtual opportunities
6+
Events from Montreal to Vancouver to St. John’s, connecting buyers and womenowned businesses across Canada
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Growing Our Cross-Border Community
Canada’s women-owned business community continues to grow rapidly, with 400+ certified women-owned businesses leveraging WEConnect International to connect with buyers across global markets In the US, our agreement with WBENC expanded awareness of international opportunities resulting in 80+ WBENC-certified businesses joining the WEConnect International network to access buyers in over 135 markets.
DEFY: Advancing Supply Chains in Canada
In June 2024, WEConnect International cohosted DEFY, Canada’s largest conference for underutilized suppliers, alongside CAMSC, CGLCC, and IWSCC The event drew 400+ attendees, with representatives from 50+ major supply chains participating in matchmaking and interactive sessions.
Engaging Across the Region
In October 2024, WEConnect International joined events in both Newfoundland and Vancouver to engage stakeholders and promote certification as a strategic tool for women entrepreneurs Panels with buyers from TD Bank, ExxonMobil, and BDC emphasized certification’s value in opening doors, driving B2B connections, and supporting gender equity in procurement
Thank you to our top cross-promotional partners: RFAQ, PARO, NLOWE, WEOC, CAMSC, GCLCC, IWSCC, TCS, BDC, TD, and EDC.
IMPACT BY REGION
“The opportunity to pitch to corporate buyers through WEConnect International has been transformational for my business.”
Niroshini Rathninda Lady Green
IMPACT BY REGION
South Asia continues to be a strategic region for supplier development, matchmaking, and ecosystembuilding. In 2024, WEConnect International significantly expanded its regional engagement through high-impact conferences, policy dialogue, and training programs creating more direct opportunities for women-owned businesses to connect with corporate buyers, strengthen their capabilities, and scale sustainably
Offering certification in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
1,200+ Participants engaged across 6 regional events
2,680+
Business connections facilitated through in-person matchmaking
3,900+
Women-owned businesses trained in procurement readiness, sustainability, cybersecurity, and more 500,000+
Stakeholders reached through regional outreach and awareness campaigns 10
Companies signed strategic sourcing pledges in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Maximizing Women Business Owner Contributions Through Trade
Through this US Department of State program, WEConnect International convened key corporate and government stakeholders in roundtables and policy sessions. These efforts led to formal pledges from over 10 companies including UCB Fintech and Nelna Agri Development to improve supplier outreach, establish KPIs, and mentor women-owned small businesses.
“WEConnect International didn’t just bring clients; it also provided mentoring and networking opportunities that were crucial for business growth.”
Rakhee Mehra, Trophykart
IMPACT BY REGION
In Southeast Asia and Oceania, WEConnect International deepened its engagement with public and private sector leaders to expand opportunities for women entrepreneurs, increase access to capital and networks, and equip womenowned businesses with the skills and tools needed to compete in global value chains.
From Indonesia to Australia, 2024 marked a year of transformative partnerships with corporations, governments and civil society partners.
Offering certification in Australia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, New Zealand, People’s Republic of China, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Vietnam.*
Attendees attended the Asia Pacific Regional Conference in Australia
Women entrepreneurs trained through flagship programs in Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam
Landmark partnerships signed with Supply Nation, Social Traders, and AmCham Singapore
Participants in strategic policy dialogues with ASEAN institutions
WECommunity registration and certification across the region
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Procter & Gamble Women Entrepreneurs Academy
In its sixth year in Singapore and second in Malaysia, this 8-week program provided 22 women entrepreneurs with intensive training on digital transformation, legal strategies, and venture capital readiness strengthening their ability to scale and attract investment.
ASEAN Trade Policy Dialogue
In partnership with the ASEAN Coordinating Committee on MSMEs and ASEAN Secretariat, WEConnect International co-hosted a high-level regional webinar exploring policies to advance women in trade The event catalyzed new conversations and action across government, private sector, and multilateral stakeholders.
Asia Pacific Regional Conference in Australia
The 2024 conference in Brisbane brought together women business owners, buyers, and policy leaders to drive regional collaboration.
Key moments included:
The launch of The Value of Advancing Women-Owned Businesses in Australia report with EY
New strategic partnerships with Supply Nation and Social Traders, uniting over 6,000 suppliers and 1,000 companies to advance strategic procurement
Policy alignment with Australia’s national strategy for women in business
Strategic Partnership with AmCham Singapore
In October 2024, WEConnect International signed a three-year partnership with the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (AmChamSG) This collaboration opens new doors for women-owned businesses across the region by expanding market access through AmCham’s network of 650+ member companies and 7,000+ professionals.
Indonesia Micro-Business Transformation Program
In partnership with the Indonesian Government’s PIP, WEConnect International launched a first-of-its-kind initiative supporting 400+ ultra-micro women entrepreneurs. The program delivered business training, financial literacy, and access to global markets via WECommunity
DRIVING GLOBAL GROWTH
“WEConnect International’s multinational and multi-regional footprint is an asset to the advancement of women in business. They provide positive momentum for women-owned businesses’ access to opportunities, which serves as a catalyst.”
Genne McDowell, Dow
“As a proud partner of WEConnect International, we have witnessed firsthand the unparalleled value and innovation that global womenowned businesses bring to the table through this vibrant WEConnect International’s network.”
Cheryl Hofmeister,
Organon
The growing global network of member buyers remains the driving force behind our ability to deliver global impact at scale. In 2024, we deepened our engagement with over 200 member buyers, strengthened cross-industry collaboration, and raised the bar for strategic sourcing
GLOBAL INDUSTRY GROUPS
To foster greater industry alignment, WEConnect International continues to convene Global Industry Groups across key sectors, including Technology, Healthcare, Automotive, Food & Beverage, and Chemical/Oil & Gas In 2024, these groups brought together hundreds of procurement professionals and women-owned suppliers to exchange ideas, identify business opportunities, and create space for underrepresented businesses to thrive Events included strategic sourcing trainings in Brazil and Mexico, WBE showcases across four sectors, and strategic collaborations with major buyers such as Adient, Ford, Eaton, and Pfizer
Our annual Member Satisfaction Survey received responses from 50 global companies up from 35 in 2023 and produced a recordhigh service quality score.
Members cited our trusted brand, access to qualified suppliers, and sharing of global best practices as key value drivers.
As a direct result of our streamlined service model, we reduced turnaround time for data scrubbing by 50%, accelerating the path from connection to contract.
TOP REQUESTED CATEGORIES IN 2024
Member buyers most frequently requested connections with women-owned businesses where for the categories shared below, reflecting consistent demand across key sectors of the global supply chain.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES POSTED IN WECOMMUNITY
In 2024, member buyers posted more than 1,200 opportunities in WECommunity creating more direct pathways for womenowned businesses to access contracts, grow their networks, and win new business
As the network expands and demand increases, WECommunity continues to be a vital gateway for opportunity and growth.
1,203
926
Each year, WEConnect International recognizes the companies leading the way in global supplier development. In 2024, we received 75 Top Global Champion submissions up from 52 in 2023 including entries from 19 non-member buyers. These submissions reflect the rising global demand for responsible supply chains.
This year’s Platinum Global Champions spanned top-performing industries including healthcare, technology, and financial services, and reported an average Tier 1 non-U.S. underutilized supplier spend increase of 4.5% from 2023. Respondents identified the UK, Australia, Brazil, India, the Netherlands, Poland, South Africa, Sweden, and Switzerland as key growth markets for their global programs Partners in this effort included WBENC, NMSDC, NGLCC, NaVOBA, and Disability:IN demonstrating the strength of collective action across the ecosystem
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CHAIR
Denise Naguib
Marriott International
TREASURER
Andrew Cannon Brookes
Standard Chartered Bank
Casondra Devine
Amazon
Elizabeth A. Vazquez
WEConnect International
Erin Stewart
Pinnacle Group
Jim Jones
Development Expert
Kathy Golding
EY
Kristine Mangan
J&J
Nairouz Bader
Envision Partnership
Pamela Chambers O'Rourke
Icon Consulting
Piers Cumberlege
Development Expert
GLOBAL BRAND AMBASSADORS
Sabrina Goicoechea
National Grid
Selina McCole
Goldman Sachs
Sherry-Lee Singh
Walmart
Sue Bhatia
Rose International
Tara Clinton
ExxonMobil
William Kapfer
JPMorgan Chase
In 2024, WEConnect International formed a new Global Brand Ambassador Council comprised of global leaders who provide thought leadership, external representation, and strategic guidance to advance our mission.
Adam Rubinfield
World Bank Group
Angela Thomas-Anderson
Circular Action Alliance
Clay Atkins
Intel
Genne McDowell
Dow
Heidi Koester Oliveira
Mars Pet Nutrition
Janice Howroyd
Act One Group
Jason Cirpiano
Tivor
Jennifer Stula
PwC Foundation
Jennifer Stula
PwC Foundation
Jennifer Turner
IBM, Program Director
Loreto Carranza
Bayer
Margery Kraus
APCO Worldwide
Marie Caron
ETS
Padmini Ranganathan
TELUS
Rakhi Agarwal
Sanofi
Raul Suarez-Rodriguez
Merck
Sherri Rossoff
RockCreek
Shira Rotem
The Israel Fintech Center
Tamra Pawloski
Corteva
Thais Torritani
P&G
Tyler Butler
Collaboration for Good
Wendy Perry
Workforce BluePrint
Zandile Njamela
Accenture
GLOBAL TEAM
Elizabeth A. Vazquez
President, CEO and Co-Founder
Saritha Venumbaka
Chief Operating Officer
Jithmi Mitchell
Certification Manager
Michael Tobolski
Vice President of Corporate Relations &
Member Engagement
Paige Adams
Head of Membership Development
Jose Cunningham
Director of Special Projects
Brittany Gonzalez
Associate Director of Membership
Growth and Development
Shorena Megrelishvili
Gary Linden
Director of Global Markets
Eroshan Alagaretnam
Regional Director of South Asia
Frida Owinga
Regional Director of Africa
Ixchel Alcantara
Regional Director of Latin America and the Caribbean
Jerome Flint
Regional Director of Europe and MENA
Minnie Venkatachalam
Regional Director of Southeast Asia and Oceania
Stephanie Fontaine
Regional Director of Canada and the US
In 2024, WEConnect International helped create tens of thousands of connections, delivered game-changing trainings, and deepened our reach in over 135 markets. Together with our member buyers, funders, and allies, we’ve grown our network, expanded opportunities for our community, and elevated women-owned businesses on a global scale And yet, the gap remains.
Women make or influence 80% of all consumer purchasing decisions
But they still receive less than 1% of corporate and government spend globally.
Women
Women own 33% of all privately owned businesses
<1%
This isn’t just a gender gap. It’s a market failure. And we’re here to fix it The good news? There’s a clear path forward and we’re already on it. Our collective efforts are building more resilient economies, stronger supply chains, and a thriving global marketplace.
As we look to 2025, we invite you to be part of the next chapter.
