Women-led businesses in Jordan can now apply for grants and technical support through the Women Exporters in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund. The initiative, jointly funded and managed by the World Trade Organization (WTO) Secretariat and the International Trade Centre (ITC), aims to help women entrepreneurs strengthen their digital capabilities and expand into global markets.
The application window in Jordan runs from 29 September to 26 October and will be implemented in partnership with the Jordan Enterprise Development Corporation (JEDCO).
Launched in February 2024 at the WTO's 13th Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi, the USD 50 million Fund is designed to unlock opportunities for women-led micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in digital trade. In its first round earlier this year, WEIDE attracted over 69,000 applications from women entrepreneurs in the Dominican Republic, Mongolia and Nigeria, with 236 beneficiaries selected for support.
The WEIDE Fund offers two types of grants: Discovery Grants of up to USD 5,000 for early-stage businesses, and Booster Grants of up to USD 30,000 for companies ready to scale their digital and export operations. Successful applicants also gain access to mentorship, technical support and international business networks.
WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said: "Digital trade is transforming the global economy, creating opportunities that no one can afford to miss - especially women entrepreneurs. The WEIDE Fund reflects the WTO Secretariat's commitment to equip women-led businesses with the knowledge, resources, and networks they need to trade, create jobs and contribute to their communities. By empowering women in Jordan, and around the world, we are shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future for all."
Pamela Coke-Hamilton, ITC Executive Director, noted: "Women entrepreneurs face specific barriers to trade. Through the WEIDE Fund, we're not only addressing a top need - lack of funds - but supporting women-led businesses to sell in international markets by ensuring they have the skills and networks to put that funding to work. We're here to see long-term growth and impact."
The WEIDE Fund is supported by the United Arab Emirates, the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022T Legacy Fund and the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Applications are open until 26 October. To check eligibility and apply, visit wto.org/weidefund.