Empowering Panjab’s Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs

UNITED SIKHS presents the second Sikhs for Business event, a unique initiative to empower small businesses and entrepreneurs through networking, learning, and community support.

Panjab, July 25: The changing business and trade landscape in Panjab has made survival increasingly challenging for small-scale enterprises. With inflation, import influx, regulatory and policy issues, and inward migration from other states, many businesses are facing mounting difficulties. These factors have contributed to increased operational costs, heightened competition from cheaper imported goods, and pressure on local resources, making business survival harder in Panjab.

While the farmers protest for protection in this shifting environment, small businesses and traders are also struggling to thrive. Recognizing the broader challenges faced by the community, UNITED SIKHS has been actively involved in providing comprehensive support. We have extended legal assistance to injured farmers and launched Project Kirti to promote self-employment by providing e-rickshaws, sewing machines, welding sets, and financial aid to men and women in Panjab. These efforts aim to empower individuals and create sustainable livelihoods amidst the evolving economic landscape.

Recognizing the need for further support, we have launched the ‘Sikhs for Business’ initiative to boost networking, learning, support, and mutual growth within the community.

By supporting small businesses and fostering entrepreneurship, there is hope to strengthen the local business community, ultimately contributing to the region’s GDP growth. Stronger and healthier businesses not only boost economic activity but also build resilience within the community, paving the way for a more prosperous and stable future for Panjab.

Our second Sikhs for Business event at Gurdwara Singh Sabha saw double the registrations after the success of the first event. Members introduced their businesses, participated in round-table discussions, and addressed challenges collectively.

“Financial growth of the community is essential for its development. This initiative helps members support each other and grow together,” said UNITED SIKHS Panjab Director Amritpal Singh.

Upkar Singh Ahuja, President of the Chamber of Industrial and Commercial Undertakings (CICU), praised the event as a fantastic opportunity for youth to embrace entrepreneurship.

Participants were enthusiastic about the support. “It is great to see an organization addressing the problems Sikhs face and taking steps to support the community,” said entrepreneur Gaganjot Singh.

Baljit Kaur, one the organizers of this event, emphasized, “Business networking is key for mutual growth, learning, and better earnings. With community support, this can become a powerful platform to help medium and small enterprises navigate the challenging economic climate.”

UNITED SIKHS is an international UN-affiliated organization with 11 chapters worldwide, dedicated to humanitarian relief, human development, and advocacy.

Our Sikhs for Business initiative is one of our key projects directly aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By promoting inclusive economic growth, fostering innovation, building resilient infrastructure, and reducing inequalities within and among communities, we strive to create a more equitable, prosperous, and sustainable future for all.

Thank you for your continued support.

In Solidarity,

UNITED SIKHS