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Denpasar, December 11, 2024 – On December 7, 2024, Bali hosted a groundbreaking training program aimed at elevating ultra-micro businesses, bringing together 250 women entrepreneurs for an inspiring day of empowerment, skills-building, and networking. Titled “Expanding Market Access for Women Entrepreneurs” and organized by Pusat Investasi Pemerintah (PIP) in partnership with WEConnect International and Karya Nusantara, the event addressed critical challenges faced by ultra-micro businesses, particularly those led by women. The program provided participants with the tools to scale their operations and expand their market reach, including opportunities to access international markets.
Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) make up 99% of Indonesia’s businesses and employ 96.9% of the workforce, according to the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs of Indonesia. By targeting women-led MSMEs, this initiative seeks to unlock untapped potential and drive inclusive economic growth.
Under a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2023, PIP and WEConnect International committed to empowering 1,000 women entrepreneurs across Indonesia. The first year of this program focuses on training 500 women entrepreneurs, integrating them into WEConnect International’s global network, and hosting roadshows in Jakarta and Bali to inspire and equip participants with actionable strategies.
Key Highlights from the event:
Participants benefited from:
Pusat Investasi Pemerintah (PIP) President and Director Ismed Saputra highlighted the transformative potential of this program: “With ultra-micro financing (UMi), we are breaking barriers to financial inclusion for women entrepreneurs, who make up 96% of our MSME community and often struggle to access formal financing. This program empowers participants with direct mentoring, actionable strategies for entering international markets, and the tools to expand their reach and impact.”
Elizabeth Vazquez, CEO and Co-Founder of WEConnect International, expressed her appreciation for the program’s objectives: “WEConnect International is proud to support initiatives that empower women entrepreneurs in Indonesia. By providing access to global business networks, we help them unlock new opportunities and enhance the competitiveness of local products in international markets. Women are key drivers of economic growth, and through this training, we aim to accelerate their positive impact.”
Workshop trainer Abigail Saveria, Founder and Executive Director of Girls Can Lead, shared her insights: “This seminar was a testament to the strength and resilience of women entrepreneurs. Guiding them on self-leadership and business strategies was a privilege, and I am inspired by their determination to turn challenges into opportunities.”
Inspiring Women Entrepreneurs
Ni Made Roni, founder of Made Tea, shared her inspiring entrepreneurial journey at the event, embodying the power of women-owned MSMEs to blend tradition with innovation. “A woman is like a tea bag—you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water. As women entrepreneurs, we often wear many hats, but we also have a unique ability to create something meaningful for our communities. I hope my story inspires others to take that leap of faith and trust in their vision,” she shared, encouraging participants to turn their dreams into impactful realities.
Another notable success story is Ayu Puspita Dewi, the founder of Bali Interpreting, whose journey from a freelance interpreter to the owner of a thriving translation enterprise showcases the impact of entrepreneurial empowerment. Not only did Ayu provide translation services for this event, but her expertise has also been sought by multilateral organizations for high-profile international conferences. “This event symbolizes the essence of transformation—not just for businesses but for individuals,” Ayu said. “Through similar programs hosted by WEConnect International, I have expanded my client base and gained the confidence to lead in a male-dominated field. My goal is to be a bridge for cultures and ideas, proving that small businesses can create momentous changes.”
Celebrating Collaboration
The event also featured a symbolic plaque exchange between Pusat Investasi Pemerintah (PIP) President and Director, Ismed Saputra, and WEConnect International CEO and Co-Founder, Elizabeth Vazquez, highlighting their shared commitment to fostering inclusive growth, expanding market access, and driving innovation through collaborative efforts.
Looking Ahead
2024 marks the first year of the three-year initiative. Upcoming milestones include:
This training exemplifies a powerful collaboration between the government, cooperatives, and the private sector, driving women’s economic empowerment and fortifying MSMEs—the backbone of Indonesia’s economy.
About the Partners
PIP: The Government Investment Center coordinates the Ultra Microfinance (UMi) program, which has disbursed over IDR 18 trillion to ultra-micro businesses across Indonesia.
WEConnect International: A global nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting women-owned businesses to global buyers and promoting gender-inclusive procurement.
Karya Nusantara: An MSME aggregator focusing on standardization and expanding markets for micro and ultra-micro businesses.
For Media Inquiries, contact Minnie Venkatachalam, email: mVenkatachalam@weconnectinternational.org
