Introduction
In 2025, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), in collaboration with NITI Aayog, launched the Swavalambini Women Entrepreneurship Programme—a landmark initiative aimed at empowering young women in higher education institutions (HEIs). With a structured approach to training, mentorship, and financial support, the programme seeks to break barriers and foster a thriving ecosystem of women-led businesses in India.
Objectives: Nurturing Women Entrepreneurs
Swavalambini is designed to instill an entrepreneurial mindset among female students, providing them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the business world. The programme’s key goals include:
- Encouraging more women to explore entrepreneurship as a career.
- Addressing challenges that hinder women’s participation in business.
- Providing structured training, access to funding, and expert mentorship.
By equipping women with the necessary tools and resources, Swavalambini aims to unlock the untapped potential of female entrepreneurs across India.
Programme Structure: A Multi-Stage Approach
The initiative follows a well-defined structure to guide participants from awareness to enterprise creation:
- Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme (EAP): Introduces participants to fundamental concepts of business and entrepreneurship.
- Women Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP): Offers in-depth training on business planning, financial literacy, and market strategies.
Additionally, a six-month mentorship programme ensures continuous guidance as participants work on transforming their business ideas into reality.
Mentorship & Faculty Training: Building a Support System
A standout feature of Swavalambini is its strong mentorship framework. Participants receive hands-on support from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts. To strengthen this ecosystem, the programme also includes a Faculty Development Programme (FDP), equipping educators with the skills needed to mentor aspiring women entrepreneurs effectively.
Expansion & Reach: A Nationwide Impact
Initially launched in Eastern India, Swavalambini has rapidly expanded to major institutions like Banaras Hindu University and the University of Hyderabad. With its success, the initiative aims to extend to more universities and colleges, ensuring a wider reach among young women across India.
Award to Rewards Initiative: Recognizing Success
To further encourage participation, Swavalambini incorporates an Award to Rewards Initiative. Women who successfully establish businesses through the programme will receive recognition and incentives, inspiring future participants to take the leap into entrepreneurship.
Impact & Future Vision
Swavalambini aims for at least 10% of EDP-trained participants to launch their own businesses, contributing to India’s vision of a self-reliant, women-led entrepreneurial ecosystem. By offering structured training, mentorship, and financial support, the programme is redefining the landscape of women entrepreneurship in India.
With its holistic approach, Swavalambini is not just a skill-development initiative—it is a movement toward gender-inclusive economic growth, ensuring that women become key drivers of India’s entrepreneurial future.