Islamabad has launched its first marketplace in G-11 dedicated to women entrepreneurs, aiming to address the gender gap in business participation, where only 1% of women are entrepreneurs compared to 21% of men. Inaugurated by Farah Naz Akbar, MNA, this Women Enterprise Market is a collaboration between the Islamabad Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IWCCI), the Capital Development Authority, and JazzCash.

Samina Fazil, IWCCI Founder President, called it a historic first for the capital, while Naima Ansari emphasized the need for supportive marketplaces for women entrepreneurs. The market is fully cashless, promoting financial inclusion among women, a key focus of the SBP’s upcoming strategy.

With only 3.2% of SME loans in 2022 going to women-led firms and 91% of women hesitant to use institutional financing, the market aims to boost women-owned businesses and create new income opportunities. Farah Naz Akbar highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting women-led businesses and pledged ongoing collaboration with IWCCI.