WECONNECT INTERNATIONAL BRINGING PRIVATE SECTOR LEADERS TOGETHER TO EXPAND OPPORTUNITY FOR WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES

On June 19, WEConnect International hosted their 5th annual International Day, which included women business owners, corporate executives, and partners from every region of the world. Over 70 corporate executives attended representing 37 of the world’s largest corporations who seek to do more business with women suppliers. These corporations were able to make connections during the event and expand their global supplier diversity and inclusion network.

“Through opportunities like these, our global network becomes bigger and stronger as more women-owned businesses become aware of the opportunities to learn and connect” said Elizabeth A. Vazquez, CEO and Co-Founder of WEConnect International. “These businesses are able to meet in person with corporations committed to inclusive sourcing and supplier development.  The event would not have been possible without the support of Intel, ExxonMobil, Ingersoll Rand, D&B, Accenture, Act-1 Group, Monsanto, Walmart, Hilton, IBM, Marriott, Merck, Pfizer, P&G, UPS and Working Title Studio.

On June 27, 2017, the CEO of WEConnect International joined the P&G Global Supplier Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Board which is comprised of 12 diverse suppliers, all of whom are the owners of their companies, and two non-supplier industry leaders including Elizabeth A. Vazquez and Ralph Moore of RGMA. The Board represents a diverse group of spend pools, capabilities, and geographies relevant to P&G’s global inclusive sourcing strategy.

Lastly, WEConnect International attended the Asia-Pacific Consultation on Women’s Economic Empowerment for W20 input into G20 which was sponsored by corporate member EY. Here the importance of sustainability was discussed to successfully incorporate people, the planet, and profits into everyday operations to increase growth and empowerment. The value of supplier diversity was discussed in terms of opening opportunities for women entrepreneurs and connecting them with WEConnect International corporate members.

WEConnect International helps women-owned businesses succeed in global value chains. It identifies, educates, registers, and certifies women’s business enterprises based outside of the U.S. that are at least 51% owned, managed, and controlled by one or more women, and then connects them with qualified member buyers.