WBAF Launches the World Chamber of Entrepreneurs for Economic Development (WenCHAM), a Global Platform to Advance Financial Inclusion Through Entrepreneurial Collaboration
Istanbul — The World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF), an affiliated partner of the G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI), proudly announces the launch of the World Chamber of Entrepreneurs for Economic Development (WenCHAM)—a bold, new global initiative to accelerate inclusive economic growth through entrepreneurship.
The official launch took place at the WBAF Financial Inclusion Conference 2025, hosted at the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce. WenCHAM will be formally introduced to the global investment and startup community in an exclusive briefing during the Grand Opening Ceremony of the World Business Angel Investors Week 2025, also held on 23 June. This high-level session will offer valuable insights for individuals interested in shaping this international movement—whether by leading national chapters, engaging in policy dialogues, or joining cross-border collaboration platforms that empower entrepreneurs and reinforce economic diplomacy.
A Vision for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth
WenCHAM emerges as a transformative platform that unites entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and innovation ecosystem leaders from both developed and developing economies. Its mission is to champion financial inclusion, promote smart capital, and position entrepreneurship as a primary engine for sustainable development and shared prosperity.
Baybars Altuntas, Executive Chairman of the World Business Angels Investment Forum, will serve as the Global President of WenCHAM, with Kevin Hin appointed as the Director General.
“Entrepreneurship is not just a catalyst for economic progress—it is a vehicle for inclusion, resilience, and innovation. WenCHAM is designed to empower entrepreneurs to become architects of inclusive economies,” said Altuntas at the launch event.
WenCHAM’s Strategic Priorities:
- Championing entrepreneurs as key agents of inclusive and sustainable development
- Facilitating cross-border collaboration and global deployment of smart capital
- Enhancing startup brand valuation as a strategic tool for long-term economic growth
- Supporting national innovation ecosystems with localized yet globally connected strategies
A Global Movement with Local Leadership
WenCHAM will operate through national chapters, allowing countries to develop tailored programs that reflect local priorities while aligning with global goals. Those selected to lead these chapters will receive the honorary title of Founding President of their country’s WenCHAM Office. These leaders will help drive national-level strategies that support entrepreneurship, innovation, and financial inclusion.
Functioning as a global voice for entrepreneurs committed to economic development, WenCHAM is designed to complement the work of national chambers of commerce and startup agencies. It will foster a dynamic global network of changemakers who share knowledge, resources, and opportunities beyond borders.
This announcement comes at a time of growing international momentum for entrepreneurship-led impact and inclusive economic participation—particularly for youth, women, and underserved populations. The creation of WenCHAM aligns with WBAF’s broader mission to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and expand global financial inclusion in cooperation with the G20 GPFI framework.
For more information or to apply to establish a WenCHAM national chapter, please contact:
Kevin Hin
Director General, WenCHAM
Kevin.Hin@wencham.org
