The Punjab government has unveiled the Punjab Women Interest-Free Loans initiative to help female entrepreneurs start or expand businesses, with the program expected to launch within the next two months.
Punjab Industries and Commerce Minister Chaudhry Shafay Hussain said the scheme will be implemented through the Punjab Small Industries Corporation (PSIC). It will target graduates of Women Business Incubation Centers as well as skilled artisans seeking financial support.
Under the plan, eligible applicants can receive interest-free loans of up to Rs500,000. The funding aims to reduce financial hurdles and improve access to capital, particularly for women living in smaller cities where financing options remain limited.
The minister shared the details during a meeting with a delegation from the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) Gujrat at PSIC House. Participants discussed practical steps to expand economic opportunities and strengthen institutional backing for women-led enterprises.
Hussain assured the delegation that their concerns would be addressed on a priority basis. He emphasized that sustainable economic growth depends on women playing an active role in industry and commerce.
In addition, authorities plan to establish a Business Facilitation Centre and a Women Business Incubation Centre in Gujrat. These facilities will provide technical guidance, entrepreneurial training, and workspace to help women transform ideas into viable businesses. A dedicated WCCI office is also expected to operate within the incubation center to enhance coordination and support.
The Punjab Women Interest-Free Loans program aligns with the province’s broader strategy to promote entrepreneurship and small-scale industries through accessible financing. Similar initiatives in Punjab have previously distributed billions of rupees in loans, enabling thousands of new businesses and supporting women’s economic participation.
Officials believe that improving credit access can accelerate job creation and encourage self-employment across the province. By focusing on training and institutional support alongside financing, policymakers hope the new scheme will deliver long-term economic benefits rather than short-term relief.
With the rollout expected soon, stakeholders say the initiative could mark another step toward inclusive growth by ensuring more women can contribute to Punjab’s evolving business landscape.