This World Development Information Day, sheatwork celebrates women entrepreneurs driving access, innovation and inclusion across borders
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As the world celebrates World Development Information Day 2025, business conversation centres around one powerful idea – “Bridging the Data Divide: Empowering Development Through Access to Information.” This theme pinpoints that equitable access to information & digital tools is not just a technological necessity, but a human right! And at the heart of this movement are women entrepreneurs who are using innovation, connectivity, & collaboration to drive change.
In an era where data fuels progress, women are proving that inclusive access to technology can transform lives. Across continents, women-led enterprises are helping communities leap into the digital age – from building e-commerce platforms and digital banking solutions to creating online learning hubs & sustainability-focused social ventures.
Women entrepreneurs are powering an inclusive digital future and thus bridging the Data Divide.
Women Entrepreneurs: Catalysts for Digital Inclusion
Women entrepreneurs are emerging as key agents of change in closing the data divide. Through their ventures, they are expanding digital and financial inclusion, thus enabling thousands of underserved individuals to access credit, government schemes, and financial literacy programs through mobile and online platforms.
At the same time, they are breaking geographic barriers – and we must remember that during the COVID-19 pandemic, women-led digital enterprises played a pivotal role in sustaining livelihoods and ensuring that vital goods and information continued to flow.
And, beyond profit, these innovators are creating a ripple effect of empowerment. Many are spearheading digital upskilling initiatives – offering online courses and mentorship programmes that teach other women how to manage finances, market online or navigate data-driven decision-making. By building strong online communities, they are nurturing collaboration, confidence & visibility for women in the digital economy.
But, Barriers Still Persist
Yet, here’s a reality check. Despite these strides, systemic barriers continue to hold many women back from reaching their full potential. Globally, there are areas like in the rural belt, where women are less likely to own smartphones, access the internet, or possess digital literacy skills. High data costs, unreliable infrastructure, and socio-cultural barriers continue to widen the gender digital divide.
Access to finance remains another pressing issue – women entrepreneurs still receive a disproportionately small share of venture funding and, often struggle to be taken seriously by investors. Many operate in the informal sector, lacking the collateral and networks needed for business growth.
How to Chart the Path Forward?
To unlock the transformative potential of women entrepreneurs, there must be coordinated action. Governments, businesses & global organizations must make planned moves. That means investing in digital infrastructure, especially in rural areas; making devices and connectivity more affordable; and designing gender-responsive digital training that empowers women to operate safely & confidently online.
Equally vital are policies and financing mechanisms that eliminate bias and provide women with fair access to capital. Public-private partnerships can help build inclusive ecosystems that support women’s entry into high-growth digital sectors – from fintech and agritech to edtech and green innovation.
As the world reflects on this year’s World Development Information Day, one thing is clear: empowering women entrepreneurs with data, technology & opportunity doesn’t just bridge the digital divide – it builds a better, fairer & more ‘connected’ future for all.
Shree Lahiri
Avtar Madan
Himanshu
