SECP approves Khudmukhtar Khatoon digital financing scheme for women entrepreneurs

Women entrepreneurs in Pakistan can now access asset financing from Rs 100,000 to Rs 1.5 million under a new digital lending product called Khudmukhtar Khatoon, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) said on Monday.

The scheme is designed to expand financial inclusion and support women-led businesses.

What is the Khudmukhtar Khatoon scheme?

Khudmukhtar Khatoon, meaning "Independent Woman," is a Shariah-compliant, fully digital financing facility approved by SECP.

It allows women entrepreneurs to obtain asset-based financing of Rs 100,000 to Rs 1.5 million to purchase machinery, equipment and other productive business assets, rather than receiving direct cash.

Who offers the financing and how can women apply?

The product will be offered by Walee Financial Services through its "Hakim" mobile application.

The entire application and approval process will be carried out digitally, removing the need for in-person paperwork. Borrowers will repay the financing in equal monthly instalments over a one-year period.

Why is SECP launching this scheme now?

The initiative comes as Pakistani regulators push to widen credit access for women-owned businesses, which continue to face structural barriers despite their growing role in the small business economy. SECP said strengthening women's financial inclusion remains a key policy priority. It added that digital financial products can help bridge long-standing credit gaps for female entrepreneurs.

What role do digital lenders play in women's financial inclusion?

SECP also highlighted the growing role of non-bank financial companies (NBFCs) in reaching underserved borrowers. Lending NBFCs disbursed Rs 111 billion in financing during July to December 2025, reaching nearly 7.5 million micro and small businesses over that six-month period. Industry observers expect digital lending platforms to play a larger role in expanding credit access, particularly for women and small enterprises that often struggle with traditional bank loans.

The launch of Khudmukhtar Khatoon is expected to further support women-led enterprises by easing access to asset financing while streamlining the lending process through digital technology.