Women in the Digital Economy Fund (WiDEF) Launches First Round of Funding to Boost Digital Inclusion for Women in India

New Delhi, November 13, 2024 – The Women in the Digital Economy Fund (WiDEF), a collaborative effort between USAID, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and Reliance Foundation, yesterday launched a funding initiative to drive digital inclusion for women across India. WiDEF, managed by the GSMA Foundation, is offering grants between $100,000 and $500,000 to support local Indian organisations that address barriers to internet access for women.

The funding round aims to reduce the gender digital divide by backing Indian non-profits and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that tackle key challenges such as affordability, digital literacy, online safety, and the development of relevant digital tools. This initiative aligns with the G20 commitment under India’s 2023 presidency to halve the gender digital divide by 2030, enhancing women’s digital participation and economic security.

As India’s digital landscape continues to evolve with the widespread deployment of 4G and 5G networks, gender disparities persist. A GSMA report reveals only 37% of women in India use mobile internet, compared to 53% of men. The WiDEF fund will support sustainable solutions with demonstrated success in improving digital access for women, providing financial support, technical assistance, bootcamps, and advisory services.

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Claire Sibthorpe, Head of Digital Inclusion at GSMA, emphasised the fund’s goal to address complex barriers women face online, delivering “significant social and economic benefits.” Jagannatha Kumar, CEO of Reliance Foundation, highlighted the initiative as a step toward greater gender equality and empowerment. USAID’s Mission Director to India, Steven G. Olive, added that the fund supports the U.S. government’s commitment to fostering an inclusive digital economy in India.

Applications for WiDEF funding are open until January 13, 2025, for Indian entities with fewer than 250 employees or non-profits with FCRA licences. Selected projects will receive support for 15 to 18 months, advancing India’s journey toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

For more information about eligibility and how to apply, visit https://widef.global/funding