Innovative Micro-Credit for Women Entrepreneurs
Srijan addresses the challenge of limited credit access for women micro-entrepreneurs in India's informal sector. It stands out in Empower Foundation’s initiatives as a unique micro-lending program using an innovative financing tool—returnable grants.
Active since 2022
Empower Foundation - Returnable Grants Model
Rs. 20,000
Grant amount
60 days
Moratoriam period
5 months
Repayment term
About the project
Srijan is a micro-lending program tackling limited credit access for women micro-entrepreneurs in India’s informal sector. It offers collateral-free, 0% interest returnable grants with flexible terms. Repaid grants are recycled to support new women-led businesses, creating a sustainable, cyclical funding model.
Collateral-free funding
0% interest rate
60-day moratorium period
Flexible repayment terms
Cyclical funding model
Program Objectives
Boost credit accessibility
Build creditworthiness
Develop returnable grant
Foster inclusion
Active since 2022
Technology Integration - YOUVATI App
Multi lingual
Super-app platform
Business tools
Digital management
Networking
Community building
About the project
Cutting-edge mobile super-app digitizing program operations end-to-end, combining contextual skilling, business management tools, marketing support, and micro-capital access.
App Features
Upskilling Opportunities: Beauty & wellness certificate courses, business workshops
Business & Marketing Tools: Digital identity creation, WhatsApp Business setup, advertising tools
Networking Platform: Community feature connecting women entrepreneurs and mentors