The Global Innovation Forum’s latest report, “From Informal to International: Women-led SMEs Embracing Digital Trade,” highlights the transformative role of digital tools and technologies in empowering women entrepreneurs across the Asia-Pacific region. The report underscores how digital payment platforms and technologies are breaking barriers and enabling women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to scale internationally.
Key Findings from the Report:
- Digital Payments Revolutionize Global Trade for Women Entrepreneurs: The report emphasizes how digital payments and e-commerce platforms are key enablers for women-led SMEs to access global markets, increasing their competitiveness. A prime example is Culqi, a Peruvian online payment platform, which has empowered countless SMEs across Latin America to conduct business globally by providing secure and efficient payment solutions.
- Successful Case Studies: The report highlights stories from across the region, including Rags2Riches from the Philippines, Her Braids from Canada, and AnaOno from the United States, showcasing how women entrepreneurs are using digital tools to expand their reach and impact. These businesses have successfully integrated platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce to build a global consumer base, all while advocating for social causes and sustainable growth.
- Government and Corporate Support: With the support of organizations like Visa and APEC, women entrepreneurs are receiving the tools they need to thrive in the global digital economy. The report also details how the combination of digital tools, e-commerce platforms, and international partnerships can create more equitable opportunities for women in business.
Read the full report here.