Women-led entrepreneurship is a key driver of economic growth and social transformation. Recognizing the untapped potential of women in the business landscape, NITI Aayog, under its State Support Mission, recently organized the Third State Workshop on Enabling Women-led Development through Entrepreneurship in Mizoram. The event, conducted in collaboration with the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) and the Government of Mizoram, marked a significant milestone in fostering women-led businesses, particularly in the Northeast region.
The Significance of the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) serves as a catalyst for empowering women entrepreneurs by offering critical support in areas such as financing, mentorship, market access, and skill development. The launch of the WEP Mizoram State Chapter, the first of its kind in Northeast India, is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at strengthening regional support for women entrepreneurs.
Key Highlights of the Workshop
WEP Mizoram State Chapter: The establishment of a dedicated state chapter will provide women entrepreneurs in the Northeast with access to essential business resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
New Shop ATR Launch: As part of the Award to Reward (ATR) initiative, this program aims to boost women entrepreneurs in the retail sector. Selected participants will receive training, mentorship, and financial aid to scale their businesses.
Project Maitri Awards: Recognizing outstanding women homestay entrepreneurs, this initiative provides training and mentorship to promote sustainable tourism ventures in the Northeast.
Launch of WEP App (Beta Version): The newly introduced digital platform will streamline access to funding, mentorship, and business resources, ensuring a seamless support system for women entrepreneurs.
Panel Discussions and Workshops: Covering critical topics such as government policies, financial inclusion, and market expansion, these discussions provided valuable insights to over 500 participants, including women entrepreneurs, students, industry leaders, and government officials.
Technology and Innovation Showcase: The SELCO Foundation curated a tech experience center, highlighting innovative sustainable technology solutions developed by women entrepreneurs in the region.
Policy Implications and Economic Impact The workshop’s success underscores the pivotal role of women entrepreneurship in India’s economic transformation. Several policy takeaways highlight how initiatives like WEP can accelerate economic development:
Boosting Economic Growth: Women-led businesses contribute significantly to GDP growth by driving innovation, creating jobs, and fostering economic inclusivity. Strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems in states like Mizoram will further unlock economic potential.
Enhancing Financial Access: The government’s focus on financial inclusion and skill development ensures that women entrepreneurs receive the necessary support to scale their businesses and compete in national and global markets.
Encouraging Sustainable Development: Programs like Project Maitri, which promote eco-friendly tourism, and tech-based innovations showcased at the event, align with India’s commitment to sustainable economic growth.
Empowering Rural and Regional Economies: By decentralizing entrepreneurship support and focusing on the Northeast region, WEP is driving inclusive development and reducing economic disparities.
Strengthening Digital Infrastructure: The launch of the WEP App will help bridge the digital divide, providing women entrepreneurs with easy access to mentorship, funding, and business resources.
The Third State Workshop on Enabling Women-led Development through Entrepreneurship reaffirms India’s commitment to fostering a robust, inclusive, and resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem for women. With continued government support, strategic partnerships, and policy innovations, women entrepreneurs will play a crucial role in shaping India’s economic trajectory towards Viksit Bharat 2047. The success of the WEP Mizoram State Chapter serves as a model for other states to follow, ensuring that women-led businesses flourish, contributing to the nation’s prosperity and self-reliance.
