Airtel Payments Bank Empowers Women Entrepreneurs with 'She Leads Bharat: Udyam' Initiative

By: WE Staff | Monday, 28 August 2023

Airtel Payments Bank has taken a notable stride towards women's economic empowerment by launching the 'She Leads Bharat: Udyam' initiative. In a collaborative effort with Frontier Markets and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, the initiative seeks to provide substantial support to 100,000 women-owned small businesses across India. The endeavor aims to equip these entrepreneurs with essential resources, tools, and growth opportunities, amplifying their capacity to flourish and diversify their income sources.

At its core, 'She Leads Bharat: Udyam' focuses on fostering the entrepreneurial aspirations of women in rural India, with a particular emphasis on the states of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. The innovative and flexible Meri-Saheli platform, created by Frontier Markets, will play a pivotal role in enabling 100,000 women-owned small businesses to learn and earn. This dynamic platform will serve as a conduit for education, networking, and economic growth, unlocking new horizons for women entrepreneurs.

As part of the initiative's comprehensive approach, 10,000 women small business owners among the initial cohort will be empowered to further amplify their enterprises. They will be offered the opportunity to become Airtel Payments Bank Business Correspondents (BCs), a strategic move that not only enhances their financial expertise but also unlocks additional revenue streams.

Anubrata Biswas, the Managing Director and CEO of Airtel Payments Bank shared his insights on this transformative initiative. He expressed the organization's commitment to empowering women in rural India, providing them with the necessary tools and support to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys. Through strategic partnerships with Frontier Markets and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, Airtel Payments Bank aims to break down barriers and catalyze women-led economic progress.

The 'She Leads Bharat: Udyam' initiative not only aligns with Airtel Payments Bank's corporate vision but also addresses a critical need for empowering women in traditionally underserved regions. By harnessing technology and collaboration, the initiative bridges the gap between aspiration and opportunity, offering a platform for women to shape their destinies and contribute to economic growth.

As women entrepreneurs in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh embark on this transformative journey via the Meri-Saheli platform, and as 10,000 of them become Airtel Payments Bank Business Correspondents, the ripple effects of empowerment and innovation are set to create a positive impact on their lives, families, and communities. 'She Leads Bharat: Udyam' is a testament to the power of collaboration, technology, and targeted initiatives in shaping a brighter future for women entrepreneurs in India.