South Asian Women Development Forum (SAWDF) is a regional, member-based organization accredited by the UN Economic and Social Council in 2022. Headquartered in Kathmandu, the Forum is an apex body of a consortium of women entrepreneurs’ federations, chambers, and national organizations across South Asia. Our mission is to transform the entrepreneurial landscape for women by advocating for inclusive, gender-responsive policies and supporting initiatives that empower women through entrepreneurship in Nepal and South Asia. With chapters across South Asian countries, SAWDF is a leading force in promoting capacity building, intra-trade networks, and sustainable development through workshops, summits, research, and regional collaborations aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Learn moreFosters Trade Networks
Replication of model projects through dissemination of information.
Capacity Building, Training, Dialogue, and Networking at national and regional levels.
SAWDF plays the role of a catalyst in strengthening the voice of women for economic empowerment through gender equality in the South Asian region.
Welcome to the South Asian Women Development Forum (SAWDF), a platform committed to the economic empowerment of women across Nepal and South Asia. Our mission is to create an inclusive, sustainable, and thriving ecosystem where women are at the forefront of economic growth, leadership, and innovation. Women are the backbone of our societies and economies, yet they continue to face challenges in accessing resources, markets, and opportunities. At SAWDF, we believe in unlocking the potential of women entrepreneurs by providing them with the right tools, knowledge, and business networks to succeed. SAWDF serves as a bridge to new opportunities by offering a range of essential services. Through our programs and initiatives, we aim to foster entrepreneurship, leadership, and financial independence among women in Nepal and across South Asia. Women’s economic empowerment is at the heart of the...
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South Asian Women Development Forum (SAWDF) has organized a number of regional and international programs relating to the economic issues of women entrepreneurs in the SAARC Region
SAWDF in collaboration with Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies and Panchkhal Municipality has initiated the First Women Entrepreneurs Green Industrial Park (WEGIP) project.
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The South Asian Women Development Forum (SAWDF) successfully convened its 13th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on October 10, 2025. The meeting brought together board members and general members to review the organization’s progress, financial performance, and strategic direction for the coming year.
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Pramila Acharya Rijal, Founder & President of SAWDF Nepal, was one of the distinguished speakers at “Women-Led Innovation: Scaling Impact Across Borders,” during the prestigious World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum 2026, held in Manama, Bahrain.
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12 April 2023
16 November 2022
12 February 2022
31 January 2020SAWDF membership is based on organizations with extensive work around women’s entrepreneurship. Contact us for supporting the ecosystem and contribute to the community. We look forward to working with all domestic and global counterparts.
We look forward to working with all domestic and global counterparts.
