The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), has launched the We Finance Code, a $500 million loan program aimed at empowering 100,000 women-led businesses across Pakistan. This initiative marks a major step toward closing the gender finance gap and boosting women’s participation in the economy.

Under the program, SBP is designated as the national champion, with 20 major banks already joining the effort. The code will also engage financial institutions, academia, and the private sector to amplify outreach and impact. SBP’s leadership highlighted that despite significant progress in financial inclusion, only 22% of women currently participate in the labor force, and fewer are able to access formal credit.

With this strategic launch, women entrepreneurs will gain access to tailored credit options, essential training, and digital banking services. The We Finance Code aligns with broader financial inclusion goals, supporting inclusive growth and contributing to poverty reduction. It also complements SBP’s existing initiatives, like enhancing women’s access through mobile accounts and embedding gender equality in banking policies.

This program is expected to catalyze economic growth, uplift households, and create jobs, while helping to bridge Pakistan’s gender divide in entrepreneurship and financial services.