Smriti Irani and British Council Collaborate to Empower One Lakh Women Entrepreneurs in India

A significant initiative to bolster women entrepreneurship in India was launched on March 17, 2026, with the British Council and SPARK – The 100K Collective entering into a memorandum of understanding in New Delhi. The initiative has garnered support from Smriti Irani, the founder of the Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality, who advocates for partnerships to enhance women’s economic involvement.

Focus on the “Missing Middle” Entrepreneurs

The program aims to assist approximately one lakh women entrepreneurs across India, particularly those identified within the “missing middle” segment. This group consists of women who have successfully transitioned from small-scale operations but encounter obstacles in expanding their businesses due to inadequate access to essential skills, networks, and resources.

Training and Support Offered

As part of this collaboration, the British Council plans to offer training that includes English language proficiency, communication skills, and digital literacy. The goal of these efforts is to enhance the ability of women entrepreneurs to deliver effective business pitches, build professional connections, and reach broader markets. Additionally, the partnership aims to develop a comprehensive support ecosystem focusing on governance, compliance, visibility, and leadership development.

Emphasis on Collaboration for Gender Equity

At the launch event, Smriti Irani emphasized the critical role of cross-sector collaboration in fostering gender equity. She stated, “The Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality was established with the belief that achieving gender equity requires strong cooperation among institutions and sectors. Women entrepreneurs in India are already exhibiting remarkable leadership and resilience. By enhancing access to skills, resources, and supportive networks, initiatives like this can assist women in scaling their ambitions into sustainable businesses and meaningfully contribute to India’s economic landscape.”

British Council’s Commitment to Skills Development

Scott McDonald, Chief Executive of the British Council, highlighted the importance of education and skills in creating opportunities. He remarked, “At the British Council, we view education, skills, and connections as vital components for fostering opportunities. Equipping women with the capabilities necessary to grow their businesses and engage fully in the economy is a fundamental aspect of

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