Transforming Private-Sector Engagement for Gender Equality

Lessons from the USAID/Egypt Women’s Economic and Social Empowerment Program (WESEP)

The USAID/Egypt Women’s Economic and Social Empowerment Program (WESEP), implemented by Pathfinder International from 2022 to 2025, partnered with private-sector companies, government institutions, civil society organizations, and communities to increase women’s economic participation. Rather than treating private-sector engagement as a corporate social responsibility activity, WESEP positioned companies as strategic partners in advancing gender equality through workplace reform, inclusive leadership, and gender-responsive policies. This learning brief shares key implementation challenges, adaptive strategies, and lessons that can inform future private sector partnerships for women’s economic empowerment.