The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), the world’s first intergovernmental body dedicated to building inclusive and sustainable digital economies, has taken another bold step in its mission to drive digital inclusion. On the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) in New York, the DCO announced the expansion of its flagship program, WE-Elevate, across all its Member States.
This move marks a significant milestone for women entrepreneurs worldwide, especially those leading micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). By scaling the initiative globally, the DCO is reinforcing its commitment to empowering women-led businesses to thrive in the digital era.
What WE-Elevate Brings to the Table
WE-Elevate is more than just a training initiative — it is a comprehensive growth platform designed to support women-led enterprises in adopting digital tools, expanding their reach, and accessing global markets.
Initially launched in Rwanda, the program has already shown remarkable success. Women entrepreneurs who participated in the pilot have gained the ability to strengthen their digital literacy and skills, formalize and professionalize their businesses, connect with customers and partners through digital commerce platforms, and scale beyond local boundaries to tap into new international markets.
By combining capacity building, mentorship, e-commerce integration, and market access, WE-Elevate provides a step-by-step pathway for female founders to grow from small offline operations into globally connected digital enterprises.
A Collective Push for Digital Inclusion
The decision to expand WE-Elevate to all DCO Member States is rooted in the belief that digital inclusion is the key to sustainable economic growth. The DCO Secretary-General, Deemah AlYahya, underlined this vision in her remarks at UNGA80:
“From Kigali to Kuwait City, from Lagos to Lahore, we have seen how one woman gaining digital access can transform a family, a community, and ultimately, a nation. By expanding WE-Elevate across all our Member States, we are choosing a future where inclusion is not an afterthought but the very foundation of digital prosperity for all.”
Her statement captures the essence of WE-Elevate — it is not only about business growth but also about building stronger, more resilient communities. When women are given the right tools and opportunities, the ripple effect touches families, societies, and national economies.
Supporting Global Goals
The initiative aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). By equipping women entrepreneurs with the skills to thrive in a digital-first world, WE-Elevate contributes directly to bridging gender gaps in the global economy.
It also strengthens the role of MSMEs in digital trade — a sector increasingly recognized as a driver of innovation, employment, and resilience in times of economic uncertainty.
How Women Entrepreneurs Can Join
Applications are now open for eligible women-led MSMEs in all DCO Member States. Interested entrepreneurs can apply through the official DCO WE-Elevate portal, where they will have access to training, mentorship, and global market opportunities.
For many, this will be a chance to turn a small idea into a sustainable business, and to step into the digital economy with confidence.
Looking Ahead
The expansion of WE-Elevate signals a shared commitment among DCO Member States to ensure that women are not left behind in the fast-changing digital landscape. It sends a clear message: the future of the digital economy must be inclusive, diverse, and representative.
