The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced the opening of submissions for the Women’s Inclusion and Financial Participation (WIFP) Challenge Fund, inviting innovators, startups, and organizations to submit their proposals aimed at promoting gender-inclusive solutions in Pakistan’s financial ecosystem. The deadline for applications is October 31, 2025, offering a vital opportunity for technology-driven initiatives focused on women’s empowerment through finance.
The WIFP Challenge Fund seeks to identify and support scalable ideas that leverage technology, data, and innovative delivery mechanisms to enhance financial access and participation for women across Pakistan. With digital transformation reshaping the country’s financial landscape, this initiative reflects the central bank’s ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable financial system that enables women to participate more actively in economic growth.
Applicants are encouraged to submit well-structured proposals that address challenges faced by women in accessing financial services, including limited outreach, affordability, and digital literacy barriers. The fund aims to support both established financial institutions and emerging fintech innovators who can bridge gender gaps through creative, tech-enabled solutions.
The State Bank has emphasized that this initiative aligns with its broader vision under the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS), which prioritizes financial access for marginalized groups, particularly women. By inviting participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including startups, non-profits, and academia, the WIFP Challenge Fund is positioned as a catalyst for inclusive economic progress.
Interested participants can access detailed information on the program, eligibility criteria, and proposal requirements by visiting the SBP’s official website at https://www.sbp.org.pk/Finc/MFS.asp. All proposals and related inquiries should be directed to gender@sbp.org.pk. This streamlined communication channel ensures that potential applicants receive timely guidance and support during the submission process.
The launch of the WIFP Challenge Fund also underscores the rising importance of gender-focused financial innovation in Pakistan’s fintech sector. As more women adopt digital payment systems, mobile banking, and microfinance platforms, there is an urgent need to design products that cater specifically to their financial habits, needs, and security concerns. By encouraging collaboration between financial institutions, technology firms, and community organizations, SBP aims to create sustainable change in how women engage with financial services.
This initiative not only presents an opportunity for innovation but also reinforces the role of inclusive finance in driving economic stability and digital transformation. As Pakistan’s financial technology ecosystem continues to evolve, the WIFP Challenge Fund stands as a pivotal step toward empowering women to become active participants in the digital economy.
Submissions for the WIFP Challenge Fund are open until October 31, 2025. Proposals can be submitted via email at gender@sbp.org.pk, and further details are available at https://www.sbp.org.pk/Finc/MFS.asp.
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