Visa Empowers Women Entrepreneurs in Pakistan with She's Next Program

By: GWL Team | Friday, 3 November 2023

Visa, a global pioneer in digital payments, has launched its She's Next award program in collaboration with HBL, Pakistan's biggest private bank, serving more than 36 million people globally, in a significant effort to support women entrepreneurs in Pakistan.

She's Next is a global advocacy organization that provides cash, training, and mentorship to women-owned small companies. Women entrepreneurs in Pakistan from all industries may now apply on the She's Next website for a chance to win one of five $10,000 scholarships. The winners will also get access to a customized training program, a library of courses, and an entrepreneurial network. The application period will run until December 2, 2023.

Umar S. Khan, Visa's Country Manager for Pakistan, underlined the significance of empowering women entrepreneurs, adding that they confront particular hurdles in Pakistan, such as a lack of funding, a lack of mentoring, and gender stereotypes. He stated that for these entrepreneurs to expand their enterprises, a strong digital infrastructure is required.

Aamir Kureshi, Head Consumer, Agriculture, and SME Banking at HBL, emphasized the bank's commitment to promoting women's economic participation and equipping them with the skills and training they need to succeed.

The Women SMB Digitization Index survey conducted by Visa showed major themes in the entrepreneurial path of women in Pakistan, such as financial constraints, the need for mentoring from fellow entrepreneurs, and a strong emphasis on digitization.

Visa has spent roughly US$3 million in over 250 grants and mentoring for women SMB owners internationally through the She's Next award program since 2020, with a presence in numerous countries including the United States, Canada, India, Ireland, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Morocco. The introduction of this program in Pakistan demonstrates Visa's commitment to promoting the growth and success of female businesses in the area.