Globally, women-led businesses face barriers that limit their access to international trade. According to the International Trade Centre, only 20% of exporting businesses are led by women, and more than 70% lack access to training, digital tools, and global trade networks. This limits their ability to scale up and participate in global value chains, so the challenge is to close these gaps and strengthen their capabilities in an increasingly digital and global environment.

The SheTrades–UPS initiative promoted the integration of women-led businesses into international trade through training, digitalization, and access to global networks. More than 18,000 women entrepreneurs strengthened their business capabilities, and 85% reported improvements in their competitiveness and business strategies. Additionally, millions of dollars in trade and investment opportunities were generated, expanding access to global markets.