Mumbai, March 10, 2025: Federal Express Corporation (“FedEx”), 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, USD 5 to 6 trillion of new global economic output could be added,” said Suvendu Choudhury, vice president, India Operations, FedEx. “With 2.2 crore[1] 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 ₹61,176 annually. Additionally, 19% of those earning under ₹15,000 annually have increased their income to an average of ₹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 ₹14,000–₹15,000 per month, while 23% have launched successful enterprises in cultural performances, beauty services, and tailoring*.
“At United Way Mumbai, we believe that economic empowerment is key to building resilient communities. Through Saksham, we have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of access to resources, mentorship, and market linkages on women and LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. 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. Mamta Gawali, 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.