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FedEx continues its mission to support inclusive entrepreneurship in India with its Saksham initiative. Now in its fourth consecutive year, the programme has helped over 270 women entrepreneurs and nearly 160 LGBTQIA+ individuals by providing essential business resources, mentorship, and industry-specific training.
Through Saksham, small business owners in sectors such as tailoring, handicrafts, food services, beauty, and tiffin services have received customised kits to scale their businesses. The initiative is a collaboration between FedEx and United Way Mumbai, aimed at bridging the gap in access to capital, business knowledge, and market opportunities.
According to Suvendu Choudhury, Vice President of India Operations at FedEx, the impact of women entrepreneurs on the global economy is immense. “If women start and grow businesses at the same rate as men, it could add USD 5 to 6 trillion in global economic output,” he said. With 2.2 crore women-owned MSMEs in India, removing barriers to growth is crucial.
Since its launch in 2021, Saksham has seen significant success. In 2024 alone, 38% of women who had no prior income now earn an average of ₹61,176 annually. Additionally, 19% of those earning less than ₹15,000 per year have increased their income to an average of ₹66,782.
The programme has also been instrumental in uplifting the LGBTQIA+ community. Before joining Saksham, nearly 45% of participants were unemployed. After enrolment, 90% have secured jobs or started businesses. Among them, 68% are now employed in private-sector roles, earning ₹14,000–₹15,000 per month, while 23% have launched businesses in beauty services, tailoring, and cultural performances.
George Aikara, CEO of United Way Mumbai, emphasised the programme’s impact. “Through Saksham, we have witnessed the transformative power of access to resources, mentorship, and market linkages. FedEx’s commitment to inclusive entrepreneurship is driving sustainable economic growth.”
For many women, the initiative is more than just business support—it is life-changing. Mamta Gawali, a beauty entrepreneur and Saksham beneficiary, shared her story. “Before Saksham, expanding my business felt impossible. With the Saksham Kit, I improved my services and attracted more customers. The financial training helped me plan better, and now I have a savings account and a clear growth strategy for my business.”
As FedEx strengthens its corporate social responsibility efforts, Saksham continues to lay the foundation for an economically empowered and inclusive India. Under its #AccelerateAction initiative, FedEx is creating long-term change by equipping entrepreneurs with the tools they need to thrive.
