Women Entrepreneurs to Get Loans, Training Under New SME Plan
— March 8, 2025
ISLAMABAD (AIA) Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has decided to integrate women entrepreneurs from cottage industries and small businesses into the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) sector to boost economic participation and empower women nationwide.
The decision came during a meeting in Islamabad on Saturday, where the prime minister reviewed ongoing reforms under the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA).
To accelerate women’s inclusion, Shehbaz formed a committee to draft a comprehensive action plan, directing it to submit recommendations promptly. He instructed authorities to prioritise the empowerment of educated and skilled women in rural and remote areas, emphasising support for women entrepreneurs in cottage industries.
The prime minister also ordered the establishment of facilitation centres to provide specialised training, helping women refine their business practices. Additionally, he called for easier access to loans through the Prime Minister’s Youth Loan Scheme to help women launch and grow their enterprises.
“Women make up nearly half of the country’s population, and the government is taking steps on a priority basis to empower them,” Shehbaz said. “The government will provide all necessary resources and training to help women secure employment and successfully run their businesses.”
During the meeting, officials briefed the prime minister on the steps taken under SMEDA to develop and support small and medium enterprises across the country.