Women's economic empowerment remains one of the most impactful interventions for community development. Based on data from our NAWARA, SIYB, and Houla programs, here's what we've learned about what actually works.
Holistic Support, Not Just Training
Programs that combine skills training with access to finance, mentorship, and market linkages see 3x better outcomes than training-only interventions.
Childcare is Infrastructure
When we provided childcare during training sessions, women's attendance increased by 60% and completion rates rose to 95%.
Peer Networks Drive Sustainability
Women who formed peer support groups after our programs had significantly higher business survival rates. We now facilitate WhatsApp communities for every cohort.
Digital Access is a Game-Changer
Women who received smartphones and data packages alongside digital skills training were 4x more likely to establish an online sales presence.
These findings continue to inform our program design and our advocacy with policymakers.
