UNESCAP and UBUNTU Consortium Empower Women Entrepreneurs in Northeast India

Dispur, India Aug 24, 2026 ALN: UNESCAP and the UBUNTU Consortium, in collaboration with the Looms Ecopreneurs Federation (LEF), organised a two-day regional training programme in Guwahati to strengthen digital capabilities and cross-border business opportunities for women entrepreneurs. This initiative forms part of a broader effort to empower women in the region, who often face significant barriers in accessing resources, training, and markets.

The training programme attracted around 40 women entrepreneurs from various sectors, underscoring the growing recognition of the critical role women play in the economy. Participants engaged in sessions that covered a range of important topics including e-commerce, digital marketing, AI-enabled business tools, export readiness, trade facilitation, and regional market access. These subjects are particularly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving business environment, where digital skills are increasingly necessary for competitiveness.

The focus on the Bhutan-Bangladesh and Eastern South Asia corridors is significant, as these regions are pivotal for trade and economic growth in Northeast India. By enhancing their digital capabilities, women entrepreneurs can better position themselves to tap into these cross-border business opportunities. This is especially critical given the historical context of gender disparities in entrepreneurship, where women often have less access to capital, networks, and training compared to their male counterparts.

LEF also hosted a Meet & Greet Dinner at India Club, Guwahati, on August 21, which provided a platform for interaction among international delegates, government representatives, industry stakeholders, and development partners. This gathering not only facilitated networking but also aimed to create a supportive ecosystem for women entrepreneurs. Such interactions are vital for fostering partnerships and collaborations that can lead to business growth and innovation.

The programme was attended by notable representatives from UNESCAP and UBUNTU, including Mikiko Tanaka, Jing Huang, Raju Rana, Dr Alakananda Das, and K Ratna Prabha. Their participation highlights the commitment of these organizations to promote gender equality and empower women in business. UNESCAP, as a regional development arm of the United Nations, has long been focused on sustainable development, and initiatives like this training programme align with their goals of inclusivity and economic empowerment.

The initiative not only provided immediate training but also highlighted the broader opportunities for Northeast India’s women-led enterprises to access wider regional markets through digital transformation, stronger networks, and cross-border trade, as stated in a press release. This is particularly relevant in the context of India’s Look East Policy, which aims to enhance economic ties with Southeast Asian countries. By equipping women entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge, the programme contributes to the realization of this policy, fostering economic integration and collaboration.

Moreover, the selection of Assam entrepreneur Tushar Tayal for the G20 YEA Summit in Vienna is indicative of the potential of local talent to shine on an international stage. This recognition not only elevates individual entrepreneurs but also serves as an inspiration for others in the region, showcasing the possibilities that exist when local talent is nurtured and supported. It emphasizes the importance of creating platforms where entrepreneurs can gain visibility and access to global markets.

The implications of such initiatives are profound. By empowering women entrepreneurs, the programme contributes to economic growth and social development in Northeast India. Women-led businesses have the potential to create jobs, stimulate local economies, and foster innovation. Additionally, as women gain more economic power, they can influence social change, leading to improved gender equality and community development.

In conclusion, the collaboration between UNESCAP, the UBUNTU Consortium, and the Looms Ecopreneurs Federation represents a significant step towards empowering women entrepreneurs in Northeast India. By focusing on digital skills and cross-border trade, the initiative addresses critical barriers that women face in entrepreneurship. The ongoing support and training provided through such programmes are essential for building a sustainable and inclusive economic future, where women can thrive as key contributors to their communities and the broader economy.