We believe investing in women’s economic empowerment leads to build better livelihoods, earn more income, and create businesses that provide jobs, boost local economies and fulfil women’s fundamental human right to financial resources and the power to make decisions that affect their lives. The following are key program priorities:
The Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA) is a successful program implemented by CARE that promotes the formation of saving groups in communities. These self-managed groups, consisting of 15 to 25 members, meet regularly to save money, access loans, and obtain emergency insurance. We commit to expand the VSLAs enabling vulnerable individuals to save and invest small amounts of money to start new businesses. The program also provides women and girls with essential financial skills, such as training in savings, loans, and financial literacy.
Women face barriers to gender equality in the workplace and at home. This is particularly true for domestic workers, those in the garment industry, and those in the informal economy. Women workers in Indonesia often experience unequal working conditions, limited access to social support, and are vulnerable to sexual abuse and harassment. Unsafe working environments can also hinder their economic progress. Our commitment is to empowering women by ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and protection against violence and discrimination.
Unleashing women’s entrepreneurial potential benefits women, business, and economic growth. Intervening in small and medium-sized enterprises to promote women’s empowerment and gender inclusion can drive future economic growth and benefit women and their communities in the long term. Successful entrepreneurship programs not only enhance women’s aspirations and skills but also address structural barriers, increase women’s leadership and participation in policy development, develop gender-equitable financial products and services, and challenge societal norms. We commit to helping women access financial services and business skills training, empowering them to start businesses and achieve financial independence. Additionally, we support women by providing business and soft skills training, assisting them in registering a collective brand, and connecting them with local and regional government fairs and events.