Mon Dec 30 02:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka’s Swavalambane Program Boosts Rural Women Entrepreneurs

**Bengaluru, December 30, 2024** – A pilot program in Karnataka has empowered 150 rural women entrepreneurs, significantly boosting their businesses and inspiring interest from other states. The Swavalambane program, a joint initiative of IIMB’s NSRCEL and Sanjeevini, provided grants, mentorship, and marketing support to women-led, non-farm enterprises.

The program, running from June 2022 to December 2024, saw a 143% average increase in annual turnover for participants. Shobharani, who produces homemade papads, saw her annual revenue jump from ₹5.76 lakh to ₹14 lakh after receiving a ₹10 lakh grant and business training. Similarly, Priya Prakash Shet, who makes pineapple and kokum syrups, achieved operational efficiency and industry-standard practices. Roopa Gajendra Kolekar, owner of Amba Oil Mill, doubled her annual turnover from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh after receiving a soft loan and mentorship.

Selected from a pool of 40,138 applicants, the 150 participants represented 26 districts and 12 business sectors, with food and food products being the most prevalent. The program aimed to increase revenues by at least 15%, create local employment, and formalize businesses.

The program’s success has attracted attention from other states, including Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, as well as several ministries, prompting consideration for a wider rollout. The next cohort will utilize the pre-screened applicant pool. IIMB-NSRCEL confirmed the program’s success and ongoing evaluation of future expansion plans.

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