In patriarchal societies like India, deeply entrenched gender stereotypes and biases limit women’s access to education, skill development, and employment opportunities. These biases perpetuate discriminatory practices in the workplace, hindering women’s career advancement and earning potential. As a result, women’s empowerment movements face significant resistance, impeding progress towards gender equality in the economic sphere.
A critical gap also persists in the support system for urban poor women operating as micro- or nano-entrepreneurs outside the structured frameworks of Self Help Groups or Joint Liability Groups. This segment of women entrepreneurs, often overlooked by traditional financial institutions due to perceived low market credibility, represents a significant untapped potential within the entrepreneurial landscape. Dhriiti, with over a decade of experience working in the urban slums of New Delhi, has intimately observed the unique challenges faced by these women.

Dhriiti recognizes that addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by these women requires a holistic approach. By focusing on the intersection of gender, and climate- and health-related vulnerabilities, we will develop unique interventions that empower these women micro- and nano-preneurs to overcome barriers and achieve sustainable livelihoods.