PESHAWAR: A delegation of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Peshawar) met with the Managing Director Abdul Hameed Khan and Deputy Managing Director Noman Fayaz of the Small Industries Development Board (SIDB), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, to discuss measures for promoting women’s participation in the industrial sector and improving support mechanisms for women entrepreneurs across the province.

During the meeting, the delegation highlighted the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in accessing industrial infrastructure, financing facilities, market opportunities, and business development support.

The discussion focused on creating practical pathways for women-owned enterprises to benefit from industrial development initiatives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

A key outcome of the meeting was SIDB’s commitment to establish a dedicated facilitation mechanism to support women entrepreneurs in obtaining information and guidance regarding industrial plots, industrial linkages, and financing opportunities.

This initiative will help women entrepreneurs gain easier access to industrial resources and business support services.

The SIDB also informed the delegation that its Display Centre in F-7, Islamabad, was fully available for members of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Peshawar to showcase and market their products, providing an important platform for product promotion and market outreach.

The meeting further emphasized the need to strengthen collaboration between the SIDBand the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry for facilitating industrial and business loans for women entrepreneurs, enhancing access to finance, and creating greater opportunities for industrial growth and expansion.

Speaking on the occasion, President Quratulain appreciated SIDB’s positive response and commitment to women’s economic empowerment.

She noted that improved access to industrial facilities, financing, and marketing platforms would enable women-led enterprises to contribute more effectively to employment generation, industrial development, and economic growth in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Both organizations agreed to continue close coordination and explore future initiatives aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs and increasing their participation in the province’s industrial ecosystem.

The Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry delegation was led by President Quratulain, and it included Senior Vice President Zara Imtiaz, Executive Committee Member and former Vice President Zubia Amir, former Vice President Saima Amjad and Secretary-General Saba Hidayat.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026