en
Singapore
ATLANTA, October 8, 2024 –WEConnect International and the WorldCC Foundation are proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on advancing business opportunities and professional development for women-owned enterprises across the globe. The MOU was officially announced on October 15, 2024, at the Americas Summit during the Inspiring Women Breakfast by WorldCC Foundation’s CEO & President, Sally Guyer, alongside WEConnect International CEO and Co-Founder, Elizabeth Vazquez.
This strategic partnership between two leading global organizations represents a significant commitment to promoting gender-equitable procurement practices and inclusive sourcing. The MOU will serve as a framework for both organizations to amplify their efforts in supporting women-owned businesses and advocating for fair and transparent commercial practices worldwide.
Key Objectives of the Partnership:
– Promoting Gender-Equitable Procurement: WEConnect International and WorldCC Foundation will educate key stakeholders on the business case for inclusive sourcing, highlighting the importance of diversity and gender equity in procurement practices.
– Raising the Profile of Women-Owned Businesses: Both organizations will work together to elevate the visibility and competitiveness of women-owned businesses in global supply chains.
– Advocating for Leading Contracting Practices: WorldCC Foundation will share its expertise on world-class contracting practices, helping vendors and suppliers understand how inclusive sourcing can lead to better, more sustainable business relationships.
– Collaborative Cross-Promotion: Through shared events, educational programs, and social media, WEConnect International and WorldCC Foundation will promote each other’s initiatives, leveraging their extensive networks to maximize the impact of this partnership.
Sally Guyer, Global CEO of WorldCC Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are incredibly excited to join forces with WEConnect International to make a tangible difference in the business world. At WorldCC, we believe that better contracts lead to better business and, ultimately, a better society. This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision of fostering a global marketplace where all trading relationships deliver both social and economic benefits. Together, we will work towards a more inclusive and sustainable business environment for women entrepreneurs.”
Elizabeth Vazquez, CEO and Co-Founder of WEConnect International, also shared her thoughts:
“WEConnect International has long been committed to connecting women-owned businesses with the global marketplace. Partnering with WorldCC Foundation strengthens our ability to advocate for inclusive and fair procurement policies. Together, we will empower women entrepreneurs by not only opening doors but also ensuring they have the tools and opportunities needed to thrive in the global economy.”
About WEConnect International
WEConnect International is a global non-profit that helps large corporate, multilateral, and government buyers connect with women-owned suppliers around the world. Its member buyers represent over US$4 trillion in annual purchasing power and are committed to sourcing more from women-owned businesses in over 135 countries. WEConnect International identifies, educates, registers, and certifies women’s business enterprises that are at least 51% women-owned, managed, and controlled, and provides Women’s Business Enterprise Certification in over 60 countries.
About WorldCC Foundation
WorldCC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working globally to promote sustainable and inclusive contracting. Its mission is to ensure that all trading relationships create social and economic benefits. The Foundation offers free resources aimed at improving commercial policies and practices, advocating for fair and accessible contracts that benefit businesses of all sizes, especially women-owned enterprises.
Next Steps
As part of the MOU, WEConnect International and WorldCC Foundation will jointly host events, share best practices, and collaborate on educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness of inclusive sourcing and promoting leading contracting practices.
