Bridging the Gender Digital Divide: WiDEF Fund Calls for Applications
The Women in the Digital Economy Fund (WiDEF) has announced its first call for applications, marking the beginning of a five-year, $60.5 million investment aimed at closing the global gender digital divide. This initiative, founded by the USAID and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, seeks to identify, fund, and accelerate solutions that will empower women to participate as equal citizens in the digital world.
The Women in the Digital Economy Fund (WiDEF) has announced its first call for applications, marking the beginning of a five-year, $60.5 million investment aimed at closing the global gender digital divide. This initiative, founded by the USAID and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, seeks to identify, fund, and accelerate solutions that will empower women to participate as equal citizens in the digital world.
Addressing Inequities in the Digital Realm
USAID Administrator Samantha Power emphasized the importance of overcoming the gender digital divide, which perpetuates existing inequities and hinders development progress. The goal is to create a future where women are empowered to actively engage in the digital sphere and drive positive change. According to Anita Zaidi, President of the Gender Equality Division at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, bridging this gap is essential to unlocking the full potential of women in the digital era.
A Global Call to Action
The kickoff event for WiDEF brought together leaders from various sectors to celebrate the launch of this initiative. With a focus on advancing access to digital technology for women and girls worldwide, WiDEF aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to provide economic opportunities, education, healthcare, and government services to all.
Closing the Gender Digital Divide
In low- and middle-income countries, over one and a half billion women lack access to online services, leading to a significant gender gap in internet usage. The global economy has suffered an estimated $1 trillion loss due to this disparity. By closing the gender digital divide, it is projected that economic activity could increase by $524 billion by 2025.
Empowering Women in the Digital Economy
WiDEF, administered by CARE, Global Digital Inclusion Partnership (GDIP), and the GSMA Foundation, will focus on promoting digital access and affordability, enhancing digital literacy and skills training, and ensuring online safety and security. The fund will prioritize women-led and gender transformative solutions, emphasizing the importance of local engagement and collaboration.
Join the Movement
WiDEF has announced its first call for applications, inviting institutions worldwide to apply for funding and support. The deadline for applications is May 6, 2024. In addition to support from USAID and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Microsoft and the Korean International Cooperation Agency are also contributing to this important initiative.
Get Involved
To learn more about WiDEF and how you can contribute to bridging the gender digital divide, visit WiDEF's website or follow them on social media (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter). Let's work together to create a more inclusive and equitable digital future for all.
About the Organizations
- CARE: Founded in 1945, CARE is a leading humanitarian organization dedicated to fighting global poverty with a special focus on empowering women and girls. To learn more, visit CARE's website.
- GDIP: The Global Digital Inclusion Partnership (GDIP) is a coalition working towards global internet connectivity and digital inclusion by 2030. To get involved, visit GDIP's website.
- GSMA Mobile for Development Foundation: The GSMA Foundation focuses on leveraging mobile technology to drive positive social, economic, and climate impact in low- and middle-income countries. Learn more about their initiatives here.
Hey there, I'm Mohamed Rahat, your go-to writer for all things business and economy. Originally from Mumbai, now rocking it in Navi Mumbai. With a past life at Tata Power Co. Ltd., I'm here to unravel the mysteries of the economic world, one article at a time. Stick around for some mind-bending insights! Connect With Me