Mumbai: In a major push toward women’s economic empowerment, the Adani Foundation has announced plans to enable 10 lakh women to become entrepreneurs under its flagship “Swabhiman Mission.” The initiative is being led by foundation chairperson Priti Adani and was unveiled during the event “Swabhiman – The Rise of She” held at the National Centre for the Performing Arts.
The announcement comes ahead of the foundation completing 30 years of social service on August 11, 2026. The program highlighted the growing impact of the Swabhiman initiative in promoting women’s livelihoods, entrepreneurship and financial independence across communities.
Under the first phase of expansion, the focus will be on Maharashtra, where the program aims to empower one lakh women in its first year. The initiative is expected to open new economic opportunities for small businesses and grassroots enterprises run by women.
The project is being implemented in partnership with Mahila Arthik Vikas Mahamandal (MAVIM), a government body working under the Government of Maharashtra to promote women’s economic empowerment and self-help groups. Through the public–private partnership model, the program has already helped more than 4,500 women from underprivileged communities in Mumbai gain access to skill development, entrepreneurship training, financial literacy and digital education.
The event was attended by Adani Foundation trustee Shilpi Adani along with Maharashtra’s Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare, Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde and MAVIM Managing Director Nandini Awade. Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, conveyed his message of support for the initiative, though he could not attend the event due to an official engagement.
During the program, dignitaries inaugurated Swateja Mart, a community marketplace in Mumbai operated by women entrepreneurs. The platform provides training, market access and opportunities for women to sell products both online and offline. A cloud kitchen initiative aimed at supporting women-led food businesses was also launched.
A coffee-table book featuring inspiring success stories of women whose lives have transformed through the Swabhiman program was also released on the occasion. According to the organizers, more than 800 women in Mumbai have already achieved the status of “Lakhpati Didis” through the initiative, demonstrating the transformative impact of entrepreneurship training and financial support.
Addressing the gathering, Priti Adani said the mission reflects the belief that empowering women strengthens communities and drives local economic growth. She added that the expansion of the program across India aims to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities while promoting women-led enterprises.
Minister Aditi Tatkare described Swabhiman as one of MAVIM’s most successful initiatives and said it complements welfare programs such as the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana by strengthening financial literacy and entrepreneurship among women.
Currently, the Adani Foundation operates in more than 7,000 villages across 22 states, reaching over 9.6 million people through programs focused on education, healthcare, sustainable livelihoods, climate action and community development. With its nationwide expansion, the Swabhiman Mission is set to become one of India’s largest women-led livelihood initiatives, promoting entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth.
