SMEDA, Akhuwat to role out joint programme for growth of micro enterprises

Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) Chief Executive Officer Ms. Nadia Jahangir Seth here Wednesday held a follow-up meeting with Dr. Amjad Saqib, Founder and Chairman of Akhuwat Foundation, to strengthen collaboration under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) previously signed between SMEDA and Akhuwat

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 2nd Jul, 2026) Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) Chief Executive Officer Ms. Nadia Jahangir Seth here Wednesday held a follow-up meeting with Dr. Amjad Saqib, Founder and Chairman of Akhuwat Foundation, to strengthen collaboration under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) previously signed between SMEDA and Akhuwat.

The meeting was convened to role out a joint programme for enhancing collaboration in the field of microfinance and enterprise development, with a particular focus on supporting women and youth-led micro enterprises across Pakistan.

The discussions were held in line with the directions of the Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, and in pursuance of the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, to promote inclusive entrepreneurship, financial empowerment, and sustainable economic growth.

During the meeting, both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation aimed at improving the capacity and competitiveness of micro enterprises. Under the agreed framework, SMEDA will facilitate Akhuwat-supported enterprises by providing business development support and enhancing entrepreneurial and managerial skills through structured capacity-building initiatives.

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The collaboration will also focus on delivering comprehensive Non-Financial Advisory Services (NFAS), including business training, enterprise management, financial literacy, marketing, and other essential skills for applicants and beneficiaries. These interventions are expected to complement Akhuwat's microfinance initiatives by equipping entrepreneurs with the knowledge and capabilities required to establish, sustain, and expand their businesses.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Nadia Jahangir Seth emphasized that strengthening entrepreneurship through integrated financial and non-financial support is essential for creating sustainable livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities for women and youth.

Dr. Amjad Saqib reiterated Akhuwat's commitment to empowering underserved communities through interest-free microfinance, complemented by strong institutional partnerships that enhance the long-term success of beneficiaries.

Both organizations agreed to initiate the implementation process at the earliest through coordinated action plans and regular engagement, ensuring effective delivery of services to aspiring entrepreneurs and contributing to Pakistan's inclusive economic development agenda.