Enterprise programme celebrates supporting 900 women to grow their businesses
The British Asian Trust with Kaarvan Crafts Foundation and Shirakat-Partnership for Development, celebrated the achievements of their programme, ‘Catalysing Women-Led Enterprises Growth’. Over three years, this programme supported more than 3,000 individuals, including over 900 microentrepreneurs and their 2,400 employees, helping to create sustainable livelihoods through enterprise growth training, access to loans, providing mentorship and building market linkages.
The programme’s success was celebrated at an exhibition held on 19 April 2025 to mark its completion. Hosted at the Centre for Business and Society (CBS), Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), the event demonstrated the impact of the initiative which created an environment for women-led enterprises to flourish, innovate and drive sustainable growth.
Kamyla Marvi, Pakistan Director of the British Asian Trust, shared her thoughts on the success of the programme: “We are tremendously proud of our work in this programme. Over three years and across four districts of Punjab we have worked with women to grow their micro-enterprises. It's been amazing to witness women using the skill sets attained through this programme to sustain and scale their businesses. They have become empowered women who uplift other women and are now changemakers in their families and their communities.”
Danish Khan, CEO of Kaarvan Crafts Foundation, adds, “Over the past three years, witnessing the transformation of women in Sialkot and Faisalabad has been really inspiring. Through this programme, these women have evolved from aspiring entrepreneurs into confident business leaders. Their journey proves the impact of empowerment and the potential that emerges when women are equipped with the right tools and opportunities.”
Bilquis Tahira, CEO of Shirakat-Partnership for Development shared, “Shirakat has worked with hundreds of women micro-entrepreneurs from low-income marginalised groups. Our experience shows that these interventions not only reduce poverty but also drive job creation. It is exciting to work with women microentrepreneurs as they spark innovation and contribute to safer, greener and more vibrant communities, ensuring that everyone thrives collectively. They have proven to be regenerative forces – building business communities and hiring local workers. Local economies cannot succeed without them.”
The special event provided a platform to 150 women to showcase their enterprises in a large-scale exhibition. This served as a great opportunity to present their products and services to a diverse audience, including potential buyers, industry professionals and business mentors. In addition to driving sales, the exhibition facilitated meaningful market linkages, enabling these women to gain exposure, build networks and explore new avenues for business growth.
