Mirzapur has taken a stride in advancing local entrepreneurship with the inauguration of two new Entrepreneurship Facilitation Centers (EFCs), also known as Udyamita Suvidha Kendras. The first centre, Badlao Udyamita Suvidha Kendra, was launched on 9th October at Badlao CLF (Cluster Level Federation) in the City block, followed by the establishment of Sarthak Udyamita Suvidha Kendra at Sarthak CLF in Kon block. These centres mark an important milestone in strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem of the region by nurturing and supporting both aspiring and existing entrepreneurs.

Designed as one-stop support hubs led by women, the EFCs provide end-to-end assistance to local entrepreneurs. They serve as the first point of contact for individuals—particularly women—who aspire to start or expand their enterprises, offering personalised guidance on every stage of the business journey. From enterprise conceptualisation and business planning to legal registration and operational management, the centres equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge required to navigate the complexities of running sustainable enterprises.

A key focus of these centres lies in enterprise support services. Entrepreneurs are guided in identifying viable business opportunities, understanding local market dynamics, and addressing challenges that often limit growth. The EFCs also facilitate crucial linkages with markets and financial institutions, enabling access to credit, investment, and distribution networks. In addition, the centres promote digital and financial literacy, empowering entrepreneurs, especially women—to leverage technology for marketing, transactions, and business management, while building confidence in essential financial practices such as bookkeeping, budgeting, and loan management.

Beyond individual enterprise development, the EFCs play a strategic role in strengthening local value chains. By connecting businesses to suppliers, service providers, and community networks, they nurture collaboration and resource-sharing. This systems-based approach promotes a sustainable and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem where small and medium enterprises can flourish, generating employment and driving rural economic development.

The centres also serve as collaborative spaces where entrepreneurs can engage with peers, mentors, and domain experts. Through these interactions, local business owners can exchange ideas, learn from successful models, and co-create innovative solutions tailored to local realities. This peer-driven learning model builds collective capacity and reinforces women’s leadership in enterprise development.

With the launch of Badlao and Sarthak Udyamita Suvidha Kendras in Mirzapur, the total number of such centres established in Uttar Pradesh has now reached four, including earlier centres in Jhansi and Bhadohi. Together, these hubs are catalysing a movement of social innovation–led entrepreneurship, championed by women’s institutions at the grassroots.