The digital economy is reshaping global trade and business, presenting new opportunities for inclusive growth and sustainable development. However, these opportunities are not equally available, particularly for women entrepreneurs who face significant barriers to full participation.

This report addresses the knowledge gap concerning women digital entrepreneurs in the Global South, utilising a mixed-methods approach that includes surveys and qualitative interviews from the eTrade for Women network. It emphasises the diversity of experiences often overlooked.

Women entrepreneurs in sub-Saharan Africa encounter multifaceted challenges rooted in societal norms, including limited digital connectivity, unequal access to financing, skills gaps, and under-representation in leadership. These factors hinder their participation in the digital economy and require coordinated responses within broader ecosystems.

The eTrade for Women initiative aims to foster inclusive digital economies by highlighting structural barriers and showcasing the resilience of women digital entrepreneurs.

This report compiles survey responses from 94 entrepreneurs across various regions and qualitative insights from 33 entrepreneurs in 13 African countries, shedding light on this under-researched segment of the digital economy.

Women in the Global South increasingly turn to digital entrepreneurship for economic empowerment and community impact.

Report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development