Branch International, a leading NBFC, in collaboration with United Way Mumbai (UWM), a prominent social impact NGO, has successfully implemented Saksham, Promoting Entrepreneurship among Women initiative. The program empowered 63 women from Badlapur, Bhiwandi, and Diva in Maharashtra to take their first steps toward financial independence and entrepreneurial growth.
Over a three-day (18-hour) Entrepreneurial Development Program (EDP), participants received training in foundational business and financial management skills through interactive modules, group discussions, and hands-on sessions. Delivered by certified trainers and subject-matter experts, the program was designed to be accessible to women irrespective of their academic background. The training aimed to build entrepreneurial mindsets and equip participants with practical, actionable tools to strengthen and scale their micro-enterprises.
As part of the initiative, each participant received a Saksham Business Toolkit, tailored to their individual skills and aspirations. Designed according to the requirements of each business category, these toolkits provide immediate and practical support. The toolkits included:
● 20 flour mills
● 20 tailoring machines
● 3 beauty parlour setups
● 2 fall binding machines
● 2 cake-making kits
● 16 food service kits
These toolkits serve as a critical bridge between skill and opportunity, enabling women to launch or expand income-generating ventures and build sustainable livelihoods.
Neeraj Gupta, MD, Branch India said, “At Branch, our CSR philosophy in India is to enable communities to thrive by strengthening financial inclusion, entrepreneurship and essential social development needs. The Saksham program, which has supported 63 women entrepreneurs, is a testament to the impact we can achieve together. We look forward to broadening our CSR initiatives across diverse causes to create long-term, systemic change.”
George Aikara, CEO, United Way Mumbai, said, “We champion empowering women to transform lives and communities. Through the Saksham project, and with the support of Branch International, we helped realize the aspirations of 63 women entrepreneurs from marginalized communities in Mumbai. This partnership laid the foundation for lasting financial independence, enabling these women to uplift themselves, their families, and their communities.”
The event also highlighted several inspiring beneficiary stories, from women who had already started small businesses and were ready to grow, to those embarking on their entrepreneurial journeys for the first time. The initiative reflects Branch International’s continued commitment to gender empowerment, financial inclusion, and community upliftment, aligning with its mission to create equitable economic opportunities.
The success of the Saksham project showcases how purposeful partnerships can deliver meaningful and measurable social impact. With Branch International’s support, 63 women are now better equipped to transform their skills into thriving businesses, uplift their families, and contribute to their local economies.
