New Delhi, 2–5 December 2024: Women-led digital entrepreneurship in South Asia is a powerful force, driving innovation and economic growth across the region. Despite facing cultural, social, and economic barriers, women entrepreneurs have made significant progress in industries such as e-commerce, fintech, edtech, and digital health. The increasing accessibility of mobile internet and digital payment solutions has further empowered women to access global markets and achieve financial independence. Key initiatives, such as digital skill development programs and funding opportunities, continue to play a vital role in fostering this growth and enabling women entrepreneurs to thrive in South Asia's rapidly evolving digital economy.

e Trade for Women, a flagship initiative of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), has been expanding its capacity-building efforts across the region. Following the success of the 2023 Masterclass in Kuala Lumpur, this year's program, ‘Growth and Impact – Unlocking Opportunities for Women-Led Digital Businesses in South Asia, '’was organised in partnership with ERIA and social entrepreneur Ajaita Shah, an e Trade for Women Advocate for the region.

From 2 to 5 December 2024,21 women digital entrepreneurs from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka convened in New Delhi, representing diverse sectors such as e-commerce, software development, digital marketing, financial technology, and agritech.

The masterclass commenced with opening remarks from key dignitaries, including:

• Pedro Manuel Moreno, UNCTAD Deputy Secretary-General
• Anna Roy, Principal Economic Adviser, NITI Aayog
• Julian Storm, Australian High Commission, New Delhi
• Dr Giulia Ajmone Marsan, Head of Startups and Inclusion, E-DISC (ERIA Digital Innovation Sustainable Economy Centre)

Over the course of 4 days, participants engaged in a series of learning and networking sessions delivered by leading experts and practitioners. The programme was designed to provide practical insights and essential skills for growing and scaling digital businesses. Key topics included:

• Building a vision for growth
• Customer-focused innovation: aligning products with market needs
• Digital marketing essentials: expanding reach and growing brands online
• Financing for growth and investor engagement
• Storytelling and networking for impact
• Inclusive digital entrepreneurship
• Intellectual property for digital businesses

The masterclass emphasised not only knowledge sharing and skill development but also the importance of collaboration amongst women entrepreneurs to unlock their potential and drive the digital transformation of South Asia.

ERIA and UNCTAD remain steadfast in their commitment to supporting women digital entrepreneurs across South Asia and beyond, fostering inclusive growth and innovation in the digital economy.