Microfinance for Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Underserved Areas of Iran: Building a Network of Success, Economic Growth, and Financial Inclusion”

We aim to identify and support female entrepreneurs in underserved areas of Iran and create a support, resources, and collaboration network. By providing access to capital, mentorship, and tailored business training, we aim to foster a vibrant ecosystem that enables these women to thrive, unleash their potential, and contribute to the socio-economic development of their communities.

Small Loans, Big Impact

Micro-financing is at the heart of our mission. Through small-scale loans, savings accounts, and financial education, we empower individuals and small businesses, breaking the cycle of poverty. Together, we’re creating a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Empowering women in Iran is of paramount importance to a more inclusive, just, and prosperous society for several reasons. Firstly, the state has been investing immense resources in oppressing women and manufacturing extreme inequality at all levels of society. By challenging and dismantling these systemic barriers, we can work towards establishing a society that upholds individual liberty and gender equality as a fundamental human right and address women’s agency in future socio-political changes in Iran. Secondly, women constitute a significant educated portion of the country. Over 91% of high school graduates are women, and their active participation in various spheres, including entrepreneurship, politics, and decision-making, is vital for the overall progress and development of the country. Additionally, women’s empowerment plays a crucial role in raising the next generation of Iranians, as around 20% of Iranian women are heads of household and serve as primary caretakers within families. When women are empowered, they can provide better care, education, and support for their children, creating a positive cycle of growth and development. By ensuring that women have equal access to education, healthcare, and opportunities, we can equip them with the necessary tools to raise confident, educated, compassionate individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society.

Our principle is centered around the belief that communities possess the capacity to identify and utilize resources on their own. Rather than solely relying on external assistance, we prioritize teaching and equipping communities with the necessary skills and knowledge to independently discover and leverage their own geographical, historical, and unique local cuisines and other know-how resources. We aim to create sustainable and resilient communities by fostering self-reliance and empowering community members.

Objectives and Strategies:

    1. To create awareness of this historical women’s agency role in today’s Iranian society among individuals to take control of their own lives and circumstances.
    1. Community Engagement: Fostering a strong sense of belonging and active participation within the community.
    1. Leadership Development: Cultivating and nurturing future leaders who can drive positive change in their communities.
    1. Networking: Facilitating connections and collaborations among diverse stakeholders to maximize collective impact and leverage resources effectively.

Progress and Implemented Strategies:

To effectively achieve our objectives, our project encompasses two pivotal tiers, financial and socio-cultural. Through micro-financing, business strategies, and advisory services, we actively support women-led local businesses, fostering their growth and success. In a reciprocal commitment, these entrepreneurs will contribute 25 % of their profit to their communities and workers to promote an inclusive workplace. Moreover, they should commit to participating in training sessions focused on civil society and rights during the loan sessions.

a comprehensive cash flow projection

We have crafted a comprehensive cash flow projection that provides insights into the financial aspects of the new venture but also includes a thorough analysis of its potential for success. Our integrated approach aims to provide a holistic view of the venture’s financial performance and viability, empowering decision-makers with valuable information to guide their strategic actions.

pilot projects

As pilot projects, we have identified and engaged with two outstanding women entrepreneurs for our program. One is based in Malayer (Hamedan province), while the other operates in Zabol (Sistan and Baluchestan province). These entrepreneurs showcase the immense potential for success and embody the true essence of entrepreneurship. Our participant from Malayer, who specializes in clothing manufacturing and sales, aims to utilize the assistance to secure a dedicated workspace and employ additional staff, thus expanding her business. Similarly, our participant from Zabol, who has a spice factory, intends to rent a suitable location to obtain the Sib-e Salamat label from Iran’s Food and Drug Administration. This label will allow her to expand her sales. She will also make a website for her business.

social and cultural transformation

To transform this financial project into a meaningful social and cultural transformation, we have devised a comprehensive plan that our participants must commit to. 

  • 15% Incentive for Workers in the form of shares of the company
  • 10% Community Investment in Cultural Information Production
  • Our program includes classes focused on civics and government, human rights and social justice, ethics and leadership, community organizing and activism, and dialogue and conflict resolution. The overall purpose of courses is to teach people about democratic principles, values, and processes.

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