Mastercard, the Official Payment Technology Partner of Expo 2020 Dubai, and Female Fusion Network unveiled new research at the first in a series of workshops for the region\u2019s female entrepreneurs at the world\u2019s largest cultural gathering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Held at Expo 2020 Dubai\u2019s Women\u2019s Pavilion, in collaboration with Cartier, the session<\/a> focused on the power of the digital economy in enabling women-owned businesses to go online. In a study conducted among Female Fusion\u2019s network of 20,000+ members across the region, it was revealed that 95% of women SMEs in the region identify social media channels as the top tool for their business ventures. Other channels include their own e-commerce websites (72%) as well as messaging services such as Facebook and Whatsapp (50%).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition, three out of four (72%) women-owned businesses said they rely on word of mouth to market their products and services. The workshop identified how SMEs can make the most of their online footprint, and better connect to their consumers in a digital economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Speakers included NgoziMegwa<\/strong>, Senior Vice President, Digital Partnerships MEA, Mastercard, Sarah Beydoun<\/strong>, Founder and Creative Director of social impact fashion business Sarah\u2019s Bag in Lebanon, IoannaAngelidaki<\/strong>, co-founder of Instashop, and Maureen Hall<\/strong>, Founder and CEO of CO\u00c9GA Sunwear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe findings from the study indicate a clear need for further education and empowerment. Mastercard has long pushed for the success and growth of women as we break gender barriers around the world. Digital tools and technologies are the greatest equalizer for businesses and as the shift towards e-commerce becomes increasingly permanent, we are committed to helping women businesses go digital and grow digital as they pursue their entrepreneurial passions,\u201d said NgoziMegwa, Senior Vice President, Digital Partnerships MEA, Mastercard.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n