Women are the co- architects of economic transformation rather than beneficiaries. UNIDO and partners stressed scaling women’s participation across green, blue, and creative economies; showcased B2B deals and capacity building; and highlighted inclusive exhibits such as training for artists with disabilities.

UNIDO director Gerd Müller and IWEC chair Ibukun Awosika argue that removing barriers to finance, technology and higher-skilled roles is essential to achieving the SDGs.

Translating pledges into finance, market access and regulation will determine whether the 2026 World Entrepreneurs Investment forum’s $6bn investment talk yields enduring change for women entrepreneurs in the Global South.

 Sources: UN News/UNIDO reporting, WEIF Manama, Feb 14, 2026; Manama Declaration, WEIF 2026.