Federal
Express Corporation, the world’s largest express transportation company,
continues to champion inclusive entrepreneurship in India through the ‘Saksham’
initiative for the fourth conservative year. This year, Saksham has empowered
over 270 women entrepreneurs and nearly 160 LGBTQIA+ community members. These entrepreneurs received
customized Saksham kits containing essential business resources, as well as
mentorship and industry-specific training. The initiative has supported
small businesses across sectors such as tiffin services, tailoring,
handicrafts, food services, and beauty—providing them with the tools needed to
scale and succeed.
“The Global
Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) highlights, if there is a sustained and
concerted effort to help women start and grow businesses at the same rates as
men, $5 to 6 trillion of new global economic output could be added,” said
Suvendu Choudhury, vice president, India Operations, FedEx. “With 2.2 crore. women-owned
MSMEs in India, their potential is vast. However, barriers to capital, business
knowledge, and market access persist. Through ‘Saksham,’ FedEx, in
collaboration with United Way, aims to bridge this gap, enabling women
entrepreneurs to establish stronger businesses and contribute to economic
growth.” Since its inception in 2021 in collaboration with United Way
Mumbai, ‘Saksham’ has achieved significant milestones. In 2024 alone, 38% of
beneficiaries who previously had no income now earn an average of Rs 61,176
annually. Additionally, 19% of those earning under Rs 15,000 annually have
increased their income to an average of Rs 66,782. These numbers highlight the
direct economic upliftment the program has fostered*.
As part of its broader
commitment to inclusive growth, ‘Saksham’ also supports the LGBTQIA+ community.
Before joining the program, 45% of these participants were unemployed.
Post-enrolment, 90% have either secured jobs or started their own businesses. Among them, 68% now hold
private-sector roles earning Rs 14,000–Rs 15,000 per month, while 23% have
launched successful enterprises in cultural performances, beauty services, and
tailoring*.
“...The success stories emerging from this
initiative are a testament to the power of inclusive entrepreneurship in
driving sustainable economic growth. We are grateful to FedEx for their support
to this partnership,” said George Aikara, CEO, United Way Mumbai.
For
the women entrepreneurs benefiting from this initiative, Saksham represents
more than just business growth—it is a transformative journey. MamtaGawali, a
program beneficiary and beauty services entrepreneur, shared: “Before Saksham, sustaining my business was a
constant struggle, and expanding seemed impossible. But with the Saksham Kit,
which provided essential tools, products, and equipment’s, I enhanced my
services and attracted more customers. The
financial management training taught me the importance of saving, and today, I
have a bank account and a clear plan to grow my business—ensuring a better
future for my children.”
As FedEx continues its journey
as a responsible corporate citizen, initiatives like Saksham reinforce its
commitment to fostering an inclusive and economically empowered India. By taking tangible actions
under #AccelerateAction, FedEx is strengthening the foundation for women
entrepreneurs to thrive, creating a ripple effect that uplifts communities and
drives economic progress.