It has been over two decades since I have been associated with VFS. It has been over two decades that I have been interacting with women entrepreneurs running micro-organizations. And it has been over two decades that I am learning from them.

Not a day passes without me learning new life lessons from the women entrepreneurs of VFS Capital. While time and again I have shared individual instances, let me take a shot at bucketing the takeaways from them. 

Adaptability in the Face of Adversity: As the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted businesses globally, many women micro-entrepreneurs swiftly adapted to the changing circumstances by leveraging digital platforms and reimagining their business models. Rather than succumbing to setbacks, they pivoted with agility, demonstrating the power of resilience in times of crisis. 

Innovations for Sustainable Growth: Most VFS Capital customers face economic uncertainties and supply chain disruptions. However, their ingenuity is showcased through innovative solutions that they develop. From creating homemade products to adopting eco-friendly practices, our customers have embraced sustainability as a cornerstone of their business strategies. These initiatives drive growth and contribute to environmental and social causes.

Community Collaboration and Support: The JLG model through which our women customers acquire finance from us showcases the importance of community solidarity. Women entrepreneurs join hands, forming support networks and sharing resources to navigate their challenges as a community. Collaborative efforts strengthened individual businesses and fostered a culture of mutual aid and empowerment.

Resilience in Policy Changes: Our country’s economy is undergoing several policy shifts and regulatory ambiguities. However, rather than being deterred, women entrepreneurs exhibited resilience and adaptability. They engage in advocacy efforts, voice concerns, and seek clarity through dialogue with VFS representatives but seldom resist change. Their proactive approach highlights the importance of civic engagement and advocacy in shaping a conducive business environment.

Empowerment through Education and Skill-building: Despite facing systemic barriers in their upbringing, our women micro-entrepreneurs prioritize education and skill-building, sometimes for themselves and definitely for their children. They participate in training programs, workshops, and capacity-building initiatives, equipping themselves with the tools necessary for success in a rapidly evolving marketplace. By investing in continuous learning, VFS customers empower themselves to seize opportunities and overcome challenges.

Digital Inclusion: With low access to education, one would think that the rural women entrepreneurs of micro-businesses would find it difficult to access emerging digital technologies. But that is not the case. Recognizing the importance of digital inclusion, VFS customers have readily adapted the initiatives launched to bridge the digital divide by acquiring the necessary skills and resources to thrive in the digital economy by harnessing the power of technology. And the outcome has been evident. VFS customers expanded their market reach and unlocked new growth avenues.

We see a shift in societal attitudes towards women in entrepreneurship. As micro-entrepreneurs gained visibility and recognition for their contributions, traditional gender roles were challenged, paving the way for greater gender equality and inclusivity in the business sphere. The success stories of the women entrepreneurs of VFS Capital serve as inspiration, reshaping perceptions and fostering a more conducive environment for women-led businesses.