The 5th APEC Women Connect “Her Power” Entrepreneurship Competition is now open for registration, inviting female entrepreneurs of all stages and influencers to showcase their potential and build crucial skills in cross-border trade and social commerce. Co-hosted by APEC Women Connect, DHgate, MyyShop, and The Inner Mountain Foundation, this year’s competition introduces exciting new partnerships and opportunities for deeper learning and networking.
With this year’s slogan of “Her Power Fuels Our Future: Together We Rise,” the competition aims to empower women worldwide by equipping them with not only practical business skills in cross-border trade, e-commerce operations, and the digital economy but also fostering inner strength and self-development. Participants will build confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset, gaining access to valuable resources, expert guidance, and a supportive network that encourages both personal and professional growth. Education on new AI technologies will play a significant role in helping participants maximise their business potential while strengthening their ability to navigate challenges and unleash their full potential.
The competition offers diverse pathways, enabling participants to pursue entrepreneurial aspirations as sellers, influencers, or business optimisers. It unfolds in three key phases –
Phase 1: Learning and Development
Participants begin their journey with structured online courses provided by leading industry partners, aimed at building foundational knowledge in cross-border e-commerce, social commerce, and trade. Past courses can be explored here.
Phase 2: Practical Application and Experimentation
Contestants engage in hands-on exercises—establishing and managing online stores while gaining practical experience in sales, content creation, and operational strategies on digital platforms. Throughout this process, they will receive guidance and support from DHGATE Group, the Inner Mountain Foundation and this year’s partner brands.
Phase 3: Presentation and Recognition
Upon completion of the competition, participants are expected to achieve successful store sales, conduct effective live streaming for product promotion, or choose to submit personal growth stories. They will also submit comprehensive business proposals that showcase their progress, strategic vision, and entrepreneurial acumen. Outstanding participants will be honoured at a formal online awards ceremony in December, where they will have the chance to win cash prizes of up to USD 1,000 as well as access to online traffic and premium partnership resources provided by leading cross-border brands.
“In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, cross-border e-commerce presents unprecedented opportunities for women entrepreneurs. Our ‘Her Power’ Competition is designed to bridge the gap between potential and success. By offering hands-on experience in operating online stores, leveraging AI for business growth and fostering a supportive global community, we’re equipping women with the skills, confidence and connections they need to thrive in international markets. This competition is a testament to our commitment to driving inclusive economic growth and gender equality in the digital age,” said DHGATE group founder, chairperson and CEO Diane Wang, who started APEC Women Connect as an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)-endorsed programme.
Recruitment for this year’s competition began on September 26, and the competition activities will culminate in December with an online awards ceremony recognising the achievements of the participants.
The long-term vision for the competition includes fostering a diverse, global community of female entrepreneurs. It aims to provide ongoing support and create growth opportunities that extend beyond the competition. For those with entrepreneurial aspirations, this competition is a chance to connect with others, gain practical experience, and take steps toward achieving business success.
