The Government of Pakistan is set to launch an AI-powered “Womenpreneurship Platform” aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs in registering businesses, managing taxes, and accessing training and market information. The initiative, revealed during a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on SME development and the restructuring of SMEDA (Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority), seeks to strengthen women’s participation in small and medium enterprises through digital innovation and financial inclusion.
The Prime Minister praised the move, saying,
“The steps being taken to enhance women’s participation in SMEs are commendable.” He directed authorities to expand awareness of the project so more women can benefit from it.
Officials informed the PM that SMEDA offices have recently opened in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, receiving strong engagement from local business communities. A new board of private sector experts has been formed to guide SMEDA, and the appointment of a new CEO will be finalized soon.
Pakistan continues to face one of the lowest female labor force participation rates in South Asia, standing at around 21.4%, while only 0.1% of entrepreneurs are female employers. The new AI-based platform aims to bridge this gap, enabling more women to enter and thrive in the business ecosystem.
“This digital platform will be a game changer in promoting women-led businesses and economic inclusion,” an official from the Prime Minister’s Office said.