CARE Pakistan, through its Strive Women initiative led by CARE International and supported by Mastercard Strive, has supported women entrepreneurs through a two-day capacity-building workshop focused on sustainable fashion, creative design and business development. Held on October 22 and 23, 2026, at Greenwich University in Karachi, the workshop was organised in collaboration with Greenwich University and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP). It brought together more than 85 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from across the country to explore ways to improve product design, transform existing products and use resources more efficiently. The programme aimed to help participating entrepreneurs identify new business opportunities by incorporating sustainable practices into their products and operations.
The workshop centred on the principles of “Redesign, Reconstruct and Redo,” encouraging participants to explore creative approaches to product development and sustainable fashion. Through these concepts, entrepreneurs examined how existing materials and products could be redesigned, reconstructed or repurposed to create additional value. Resource efficiency and sustainable production practices were also key areas of focus, highlighting ways businesses can make better use of available materials while developing products suited to changing market needs. For small businesses operating in the fashion and creative industries, such approaches can provide opportunities to differentiate their offerings, reduce material waste and explore new customer segments.
Maria Umar, Team Lead of Strive Women at CARE Pakistan, participated in the workshop and highlighted the importance of continuous learning for women entrepreneurs. The programme provided participants with opportunities to explore new ideas, understand sustainable design practices and consider how these approaches could be incorporated into their businesses. Collaboration between CARE Pakistan, Greenwich University and TDAP also connected entrepreneurs with academic and trade institutions, creating a platform for sharing knowledge related to product development, sustainability and business growth. Bringing SMEs together through practical learning activities can help business owners exchange experiences and identify approaches relevant to their individual markets.
Through Strive Women, CARE International in Pakistan continues to support women entrepreneurs by promoting financial inclusion, developing business capabilities and expanding access to economic opportunities. The initiative focuses on helping women-led businesses build the skills and connections needed to manage and grow their enterprises. The workshop reflects an approach that combines entrepreneurship development with sustainable production, encouraging participants to consider both commercial opportunities and environmental impact. By connecting women entrepreneurs with industry, academia and trade institutions, the programme seeks to support a more inclusive business environment while helping SMEs explore sustainable fashion, creative innovation and more efficient use of resources.
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