WEConnect International Launches Fully Funded Certification Program for Women-Owned Businesses in New South Wales

WEConnect International has launched a new pilot program that will provide up to 50 women-owned businesses across New South Wales with fully funded WEConnect International Certification, along with education, buyer insights, and support designed to help businesses become more procurement ready and compete for corporate and government contracting opportunities.

The initiative is designed to strengthen the participation of women-owned businesses in supply chains by providing the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to pursue new procurement opportunities and build long-term business growth.

Program Benefits
Businesses selected to participate will receive:

• Fully funded WEConnect International Certification (Valid for 3 Years)
• Guidance and support throughout the certification process
• An educational workshop covering the value of certification, inclusive sourcing, and how to engage with corporate and government procurement opportunities
• A buyer insight session featuring procurement professionals from leading organizations
• Increased visibility within WEConnect International’s global network of corporate, multilateral, and government buyers

Eligibility
The program is open to businesses that:

• Are at least 51% women-owned, managed, and controlled
• Are based in, or have significant operations in, New South Wales
• Offer an established product or service
• Are interested in pursuing corporate or government procurement opportunities
• Are committed to completing the certification process and participating in the program

Priority consideration will be given to businesses operating in the following sectors:

• Construction & Infrastructure
• Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
• Professional & Consulting Services
• Transport & Logistics
• Facilities & Property Services
• Health & Medical Supplies
• Human & Community Services
• Education & Training
• Energy & Utilities
• Corporate & Administrative Services

The program also encourages applications from businesses owned or led by women from underrepresented communities, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, culturally and linguistically diverse women, women with disability, and women living in regional, rural, remote, or cross-border areas of New South Wales.

Applications are now open and will close on July 20.

Applications will be assessed based on business readiness, procurement potential, growth ambition, and alignment with the program’s priority sectors, with the goal of creating a diverse cohort of high-potential women-owned businesses from across New South Wales.

Businesses interested in participating are encouraged to complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) before the application deadline. For questions about the program or the application process, please contact the WEConnect International team.