Karachi, November 19, 2024: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) will host the Pakistan Women Entrepreneurship Day 2024 at its museum, marking a significant celebration of women entrepreneurs across the nation. This event, part of the global Women Entrepreneurship Day initiative recognized in over 144 countries, aims to amplify the voices of women in business and promote greater financial inclusion.
Empowering Women for Economic Growth
The overarching message of the event emphasizes that empowering women entrepreneurs is essential for economic growth. The SBP is committed to creating an inclusive financial ecosystem where women-led businesses can thrive. This celebration highlights the resilience, innovation, and success of women entrepreneurs who contribute significantly to Pakistan’s economy.
Event Objectives
The Pakistan Women Entrepreneurship Day aims to achieve several key objectives:
- Promote Financial Inclusion: The event will showcase SBP’s initiatives designed to improve access to finance for women entrepreneurs, encouraging banks to extend support and funding.
- Recognize Achievements: Awards will be presented to outstanding women leaders in business, honouring their contributions and achievements.
- Encourage Participation: The event will provide a platform for networking, mentorship, and learning, inspiring aspiring women entrepreneurs to pursue their business goals.
Key Initiatives
1. Empower Her Campaign
The Empower Her Campaign will feature SME Baithak meetings, awareness workshops, and mentorship programs aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs across the country. From July 1 to November 10, 2024, banks are urged to provide maximum financing to women entrepreneurs. The top three banks providing the highest financing nationwide will be recognized during the main ceremony in Karachi.
2. Business Idea Competition
A Business Idea Competition encourages aspiring women entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas. Participants can submit their proposals through a dedicated form available on SBP’s social media channels and website. The deadline for submissions is November 10, 2024, with the top three winners announced at the main ceremony, offering them a chance to present their ideas to a larger audience.
3. Women of Impact Awards
The event will honour the achievements of women entrepreneurs through various award categories, including:
- Innovative Leader Award
- Social Impact Award
- Sustainability Champion Award
- Resilience Award
Two awards will be given in each category, recognizing the outstanding contributions of women to the entrepreneurial landscape.
Nationwide Celebrations
The celebrations for Women Entrepreneurship Day will take place across the nation, with events organized in 16 SBP Banking Services Corporation (BSC) field offices. In addition, banks will host a series of events leading up to November 19, making it a week-long tribute to women’s entrepreneurial accomplishments.
Notable Attendees
The main ceremony will feature the Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan as the Chief Guest, alongside senior SBP executives. Distinguished representatives from UN Women, USAID, and the British Asian Trust will also share their insights. Presidents and CEOs of major banks, along with senior leadership, are invited to attend, ensuring a gathering of influential figures in support of women entrepreneurship.
Partnering for Progress
The event is supported by several key partners, including the Women Entrepreneurship Day Organization, UN Women, USAID, the British Asian Trust, and various banks and women’s chambers of commerce. These partnerships are crucial for fostering an environment where women-led businesses can flourish.
Conclusion
Pakistan Women Entrepreneurship Day 2024 is a beacon of hope and empowerment for women entrepreneurs nationwide. By celebrating their achievements and promoting financial inclusion, the State Bank of Pakistan is paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future in which women play a vital role in driving economic growth.
