Lahore: In observance of Women Entrepreneurship Day, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) has reiterated its commitment to support women entrepreneurs in Pakistan by tackling the challenges they encounter. Federal Minister for Industries and Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain, along with Federal Secretary Saif Anjum and CEO of SMEDA Socrat Aman Rana, convened today at SMEDA to express a unified commitment to cultivating a favorable business environment for women entrepreneurs in the country.
According to Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority, this year's observance of Women Entrepreneurship Day is particularly significant as SMEDA, under the patronage of the Ministry of Industries and Production, is set to unveil a transformative Women Entrepreneurship Policy. This initiative aims to stimulate growth, boost financial inclusion, and enhance market access for women entrepreneurs nationwide. Currently, only 10% of women entrepreneurs have access to formal markets, and a mere 2% utilize online marketplaces. Additionally, the 34% gender finance gap and the 3.2% of SME lending directed to women-led enterprises indicate substantial opportunities for financial inclusion.
Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain lauded SMEDA's efforts in empowering women entrepreneurs and acknowledged the fortitude of Pakistani women. He emphasized the government's commitment to dismantling barriers and nurturing an ecosystem where women-led businesses can prosper. Federal Secretary Saif Anjum echoed these sentiments, highlighting the critical role of women in shaping Pakistan's economic landscape and the contributions of women entrepreneurs in driving innovation and job creation.
CEO Socrat Aman Rana underscored SMEDA's position as a crucial ally for women entrepreneurs. He emphasized that the forthcoming Women Entrepreneurship Policy would provide women with the necessary tools and resources to solidify their influence in shaping Pakistan's economic future. As Pakistan advances towards a more inclusive economic framework, Women Entrepreneurship Day underscores the untapped potential within the women-led business sector. Through continued support from SMEDA, women entrepreneurs are anticipated to be further empowered to lead, innovate, and propel the nation's growth.