WEConnect-U.S. Embassy’s key events to advance gender inclusive supply chains

WEConnect International, with support from the U.S. Embassy, hosted a Supplier Development Masterclass and Supplier Diversity and Inclusion Roundtable in Colombo. 

These events aim to empower and connect women-owned businesses with key industry   leaders and potential buyers, fostering economic growth and promoting gender inclusivity within value chains. 

U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung joined more than 40 Sri Lankan women business owners as they participated in the Supplier Development Masterclass, an advanced training programme featuring in-depth lessons on business strategy, marketing, technology, negotiation and sales. The class culminates in a pitch session where the participants presented their businesses to a panel  of buyers, providing valuable feedback and potentially opening doors to new business opportunities. 

The Supplier Diversity and Inclusion Roundtable brought together more than 35 diverse stakeholders, including U.S. diplomats, global business leaders, Sri Lankan government representatives, private enterprises, civil society and academia. This multi-stakeholder discussion aimed   at developing   innovative strategies for embedding gender inclusivity into value chains, leveraging technology and best business practices to drive transformative change. 

These events are  part  of WEConnect  International’s Women’s Empowerment Through Economic Inclusion initiative, funded  by the  U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of South  and  Central  Asian Affairs. This initiative focuses on generating long-term opportunities for women-owned businesses to connect and conduct business with large buyers, including local and multinational corporations, government agencies and non-profit and non-governmental organisations in India, Bangladesh, the Maldives and Sri Lanka. 

“I’m thrilled to meet so many inspiring women entrepreneurs and glad that the United States can be part of their success story.  When women are fully included in decision-making and economic development, we all benefit. Empowering women in business drives inclusive, sustainable growth for all Sri Lankans,” said Chung. 
“We are proud to partner with the U.S. Embassy to advance supplier diversity and inclusive sourcing in the region. These initiatives are pivotal in creating economic opportunities for women-owned businesses and driving positive social change,” said WEConnect International Chief Operating Officer Saritha Venumbaka.