Mumbai: ‘Reimagining Lives: Shakti Samriddhi’ program was launched by Bank of Baroda’s BOBCARD. The program’s first phase aims to empower more than 100 women entrepreneurs by offering skill development, financial literacy training, and mentorship throughout the year.

Although India ranks as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, women remain underrepresented, accounting for only 35% of the startup workforce, according to the State of India’s Livelihood Report. The program is tailored to equip both existing and aspiring women entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to succeed in today’s competitive business landscape.

In collaboration with United Way Mumbai (UWM), BOBCARD’s initiative is to distribute entrepreneurial kits—including sewing machines, baking equipment, and other essential tools—equipping the beneficiaries to build and expand their businesses. Maharashtra’s minister of women and child development Aditi Tatkare graced the occasion as the chief guest.

Through this partnership, BOBCARD and UWM are working together to create a comprehensive support system that addresses the unique needs of women in the entrepreneurial space.

Tatkare, said, “I recognize the crucial role that entrepreneurship plays in fostering economic empowerment and social progress. These modules cover a wide range of topics essential for building a strong foundation in entrepreneurship, including financial literacy, budgeting, market linkages, banking, distinguishing between good and bad loans, and cultivating the habit of saving.

Ravindra Rai, MD and CEO, BOBCARD Limited, said, “Our latest women-centric offerings coupled with Shakti Samriddhi, reinforce this mission by uplifting women at the grassroots. When women thrive, families, communities, and societies prosper. This is the essence of inclusive growth, and together, we aim to build a more equitable society where female entrepreneurship and leadership drive meaningful progress.”