Nine ‘E’s to Transform Women Entrepreneurship in Nepal

Since its inception in 2003, the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs' Associations of Nepal (FWEAN) has remained committed to its mission to empower Nepali women economically and socially, thus contributing to the nation’s progress. Our journey has been marked by persistent advocacy, capacity enhancement, and the promotion of women-led enterprises both at home and abroad.

With a vision to build a stronger Nepal through the socio-economic empowerment of women, FWEAN now proudly represents over 5,500 women entrepreneurs across all seven provinces through our 69 subsidiary WEAN Chapters. As a central hub based in Kathmandu, FWEAN serves as a focal point for interaction with government bodies, national institutions, and international stakeholders. We are committed to ensuring that the voices of women entrepreneurs are heard in key decision-making processes at all levels.

This week is a momentous occasion for us as we come together to recognize and celebrate the invaluable support of our development partners. Their contributions have been instrumental in driving the progress we have achieved so far. The gathering of stakeholders of the federation on Monday reflects our accomplishments and is a testament to collaboration.

Today, I want to share a vision that is close to my heart—a vision that seeks to empower and transform the socio-economic status of women entrepreneurs in Nepal. When I stepped in as the President of FWEAN, I envisioned a comprehensive approach to fostering women’s entrepreneurship which is called the 'Nine E’s Framework’ at FWEAN. In the following paragraphs of this write-up, I have attempted to elaborate on each of these pillars and how they align with the broader goals we all share.

Entrepreneurship is more than just starting a business; it is about empowering women to take control of their economic destiny. Women entrepreneurs have the potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and contribute meaningfully to our society. FWEAN has been working on creating a more inclusive business ecosystem. 

Empowerment is the foundation upon which entrepreneurship thrives. When women believe in their abilities, they break barriers and create lasting change in their communities. We are developing contemporary programs that build self-confidence and leadership skills, especially among marginalized women. 

Education is the cornerstone of empowerment. We believe that access to free and quality education for women and girls is non-negotiable. It prepares them not just for the workforce but for leadership roles in their communities and beyond. We will continue to advocate for entrepreneurship programs, scholarships, and vocational training that will lay the foundation for a new generation of women entrepreneurs.

Enhancement focuses on innovation and competitiveness. Our women entrepreneurs need the skills to enhance their products and services to meet market demands which is why we established a Business Development Center at FWEAN. We envision establishing province level Business Development Center hubs and providing skill development workshops that can help our entrepreneurs compete at national and international levels.

To encourage is to build resilience. Entrepreneurship is a journey fraught with challenges, and women need to be celebrated for their successes and supported through their struggles. We propose creating awards, recognition programs, and mentoring schemes that celebrate these successes and provide the necessary support to continue going forward. With your collaboration, we can create an environment where women feel encouraged and supported at every step.

Engagement is key to growth. A vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem where women can connect with peers, mentors, and industry experts is crucial. We organize networking events, peer-learning sessions, and collaboration platforms that facilitate this engagement, allowing our entrepreneurs to learn and grow together.

Equity in entrepreneurship is about breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity. We recognize that not all women start from the same place, and we must work together to ensure that all women, regardless of their background, have equal opportunities to succeed. We promote and work for equity through policy advocacy, inclusive financing, and targeted support for underrepresented groups.

Expansion of our programs, both geographically and through networks, is essential to scaling our impact. We seek partnership in extending the reach of our successful models and best practices to more regions in Nepal and beyond. Together, we can create a ripple effect that touches the lives of countless women.

Finally, we must speak of the environment. In today’s world, entrepreneurship must go hand in hand with environmental responsibility. Our entrepreneurs are committed to incorporating eco-friendly practices and sustainable solutions in their businesses. We are keen to collaborate with you to provide training on green practices, develop sustainable products, and integrate Business Continuity Plans that focus on climate resilience. By doing so, we not only ensure the sustainability of businesses but also contribute to the global fight against climate change.

In conclusion, I urge everyone to join us in our mission to empower women, drive economic growth, and create a more equitable and sustainable future for all. The potential is immense, and with everyone’s support, we can turn this vision into a reality.