IIM Kozhikode launches Uyare project to train women entrepreneurs in Kerala. The initiative was introduced on April 27, 2026, to strengthen grassroots entrepreneurship. It focuses on empowering women linked with the Kudumbashree network through structured training.
IIM Kozhikode Uyare Project 2026 Focus on Women Entrepreneurship Training
The Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM Kozhikode) has introduced a research-driven initiative aimed at improving entrepreneurial capabilities among women. The project targets members of Kudumbashree, a large community network in Kerala that supports women-led development and poverty eradication.
The programme is designed to enhance business practices, strengthen managerial skills, and improve operational efficiency. It also emphasises compliance with regulatory frameworks, which is essential for small-scale enterprises.
Kudumbashree Network and Women Entrepreneur Development in Kerala
The initiative specifically focuses on women associated with the Kudumbashree network, which covers over 48 lakh women across Kerala. Established in 1997, the network has played a major role in promoting financial independence and community-based enterprises.
The Uyare project aims to build on this foundation by offering structured training programmes that help women expand and sustain their businesses. It also seeks to address gaps in knowledge related to formal financial systems.
Uyare Project 2026 to Improve Credit Access and Digital Market Participation
The programme includes targeted interventions to improve access to formal credit systems. This is expected to help women entrepreneurs secure funding and scale their operations effectively. In addition, the initiative focuses on increasing participation in digital marketplaces. This will enable small businesses to reach wider audiences and adapt to evolving market trends.
IIM Kozhikode Initiative to Support Rural and Semi-Urban Enterprises
The project will also generate insights into the need for long-term support mechanisms for enterprises in rural and semi-urban areas. These insights are expected to guide future policy and training frameworks. By combining research with practical training, the Uyare project aims to create a sustainable ecosystem for women-led businesses at the grassroots level.
