Karachi, November 16, 2024 – The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced that it will celebrate Women Entrepreneurship Day (WED) on November 19, 2024, across the country, with key events at its 16 field offices. The primary ceremony will be held at SBP headquarters in Karachi, featuring a keynote address by Governor Jameel Ahmad.
The event will spotlight the vital role of women entrepreneurs in Pakistan’s economy. It will bring together leaders from the banking and non-banking sectors, women’s organizations, and other stakeholders to recognize and celebrate the achievements of women-led enterprises.
Since July 2024, the SBP has actively prepared for this event by collaborating with stakeholders to create an enabling environment for women entrepreneurs. These efforts include workshops, awareness campaigns, and mentorship programs aimed at increasing access to financing and offering guidance to women pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. To date, SBP-BSC offices have engaged with over 1,000 women entrepreneurs nationwide, equipping them with the knowledge and resources needed for success.
The main ceremony in Karachi will include the presentation of awards in categories such as Innovative Leadership, Social Impact, Sustainability Champion, and Resilience, celebrating the accomplishments of women entrepreneurs. Winners of a Business Idea Competition will also be announced, further encouraging creativity and innovation. Additionally, banks excelling in extending loans to women will receive recognition awards for their efforts in promoting financial inclusion.
Women Entrepreneurship Day is a global initiative that acknowledges the contributions of women to innovation, job creation, and economic growth. Despite their pivotal role, many women in Pakistan face barriers to accessing financing and business opportunities. By commemorating WED, the SBP aims to address these challenges, inspire more women to embark on entrepreneurial paths, and equip them to thrive in competitive markets.
Governor Jameel Ahmad emphasized the importance of women entrepreneurs in driving sustainable economic growth and reiterated SBP’s commitment to fostering gender-inclusive development. “Empowering women entrepreneurs is not just a social responsibility but a crucial economic strategy,” he stated.
The SBP’s initiatives align with broader national and global objectives to promote gender equality and economic empowerment. Through its proactive measures, the SBP hopes to build momentum for sustained support to women-led enterprises, driving innovation and prosperity across Pakistan.
