The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is set to celebrate Women Entrepreneurship Day (WED) 2025 on November 19 with nationwide activities coordinated through its 16 field offices. The central ceremony will be held at SBP headquarters in Karachi, serving as the focal point of a countrywide program designed to strengthen women’s participation in Pakistan’s economy.
Building on the momentum from last year’s celebrations, WED 2025 is expected to bring together representatives from the financial sector, women’s chambers, entrepreneurial networks, civil society, and development partners. The program will focus on increasing awareness of financing schemes, conducting mentorship sessions, and organizing workshops that address the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs.
During WED 2024, SBP engaged over 1,500 women entrepreneurs through more than 50 outreach sessions. Banks collectively disbursed around PKR 24 billion to more than 20,000 women-led businesses, underscoring the financial sector’s role in expanding women’s access to credit and resources. The event also highlighted outstanding contributions through awards for both high-performing entrepreneurs and banks demonstrating leadership in women’s economic inclusion.
WED 2025 aims to take these efforts further by amplifying the visibility of women-led businesses and creating new opportunities for growth. The highlight of this year’s program will be the awards ceremony recognizing excellence in categories such as Innovative Leadership, Social Impact, Sustainability Champion, and Resilience. These awards are designed to not only honor achievements but also inspire other women to pursue entrepreneurial paths.
Another key feature of the event will be the announcement of winners for the Business Idea Competition 2025. This contest provides a platform for aspiring women entrepreneurs to present innovative solutions and business models that address pressing market gaps. The competition underscores SBP’s commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and practical entrepreneurship among women.
Beyond recognition and competitions, WED 2025 is designed to create sustainable impact through targeted initiatives. Awareness campaigns will educate women about financing options available through banks and government schemes, while mentorship programs will connect entrepreneurs with experienced business leaders who can provide guidance and support. These initiatives aim to build stronger foundations for women’s participation in Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Women Entrepreneurship Day is a global initiative that celebrates women who contribute to job creation, innovation, and economic growth. By aligning its national celebrations with this global movement, SBP highlights the critical role women play in Pakistan’s economic future. Through WED 2025, the central bank and its partners reaffirm their commitment to building a more inclusive financial ecosystem that not only empowers women but also strengthens the country’s overall economic fabric.
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