# Sakti Cafe: Empowering Women's Financial Independence and Livelihood Advancement in Odisha, India

Srinibash Dash

► To cite this version:

Srinibash Dash. Sakti Cafe: Empowering Women's Financial Independence and Livelihood Advancement in Odisha, India. Asian Journal of Education and Social Studies, In press, 51 (4), pp.200-210, 10.9734/ajess/2025/v51i41861. http://dx.doi.org/10.9734/ajess/2025/v51i41861

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# Sakti Cafe: Empowering Women's Financial Independence and Livelihood Advancement in Odisha, India

Srinibash Dash a++*

a School of Management, Gangadhar Meher University, India.

**Author's contribution**

The sole author designed, analysed, interpreted and prepared the manuscript.

**Article Information**

DOI: https://doi.org/10.9734/ajess/2025/v51i41861

**Open Peer Review History:**

This journal follows the Advanced Open Peer Review policy. Identity of the Reviewers, Editor(s) and additional Reviewers, peer review comments, different versions of the manuscript, comments of the editors, etc are available here: https://pr.sdiarticle5.com/review-history/133851

Received: 31/01/2025

Accepted: 01/04/2025

Published: 04/04/2025

**Original Research Article**

## ABSTRACT

Sakti Cafe in Odisha, India, stands as a beacon of empowerment for women, addressing socio-economic barriers through vocational training, employment, and entrepreneurship. This study evaluates its impact on women's financial independence, livelihood advancement, and socio-cultural dynamics. Through a mixed-methods approach, socio-economic barriers faced by women are assessed, Sakti Cafe's role is examined, and broader implications are explored. The study identifies actionable recommendations for policymakers, NGOs, and stakeholders to enhance women's empowerment and promote inclusive development. Suggestions include diversifying vocational training, customized financial inclusion, establishing satellite cafes, gender sensitization, strengthening partnerships, mentorship programs, technology integration, advocacy for policy reforms, regular monitoring, and knowledge sharing. By implementing these suggestions, Sakti Cafe can further empower women and contribute to sustainable development in Odisha and similar contexts.

<footnote>** Associate Professor;</footnote>

<footnote>*Corresponding author: Email: dash.srinibash@gmail.com;</footnote>
Keywords: Women's empowerment; Sakti café; socio-economic barriers; vocational training; inclusive development.

JEL Classifications: O15, J16, I38

# 1. INTRODUCTION

Sakti Cafe stands as a beacon of empowerment for women in Odisha, India, serving as a catalyst for financial independence and social transformation. Established with the dual objective of fostering economic self-sufficiency and enhancing livelihood opportunities, the initiative represents a paradigm shift in women's entrepreneurship. More than just a culinary establishment, Sakti Cafe embodies a broader movement toward gender equality and inclusive development, aligning with global efforts to advance women's participation in business and financial decision-making (Nidhan et al., 2024).

At its core, Sakti Cafe transcends the conventional boundaries of a business venture. By providing vocational training in culinary arts, business management, and customer service, the initiative equips women with the skills necessary to navigate and excel in the hospitality industry. This approach is consistent with recent research, which emphasizes the role of financial literacy and skill development in empowering women entrepreneurs (Desai, Sensarma, & Thomas, 2024). Moreover, the cafe fosters a supportive ecosystem where women can build professional networks, enhance their confidence, and develop leadership capabilities—essential factors that contribute to long-term economic stability and self-reliance (Odede, 2024).

Beyond its direct economic benefits, the impact of Sakti Cafe extends into the wider community, reinforcing the notion that women's financial empowerment creates positive ripple effects on families and society. Studies indicate that when women attain economic independence, they reinvest a substantial portion of their earnings into their households, thereby improving living standards, educational opportunities, and overall well-being (Iskenderian, 2025). Furthermore, Sakti Cafe serves as a replicable model for social enterprises, inspiring similar initiatives aimed at uplifting marginalized communities through entrepreneurship (Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, 2025).

This study explores the multidimensional impact of Sakti Cafe on women's financial

independence, career advancement, and societal inclusion in Odisha. Through qualitative analysis and firsthand narratives, we assess the transformative power of this initiative, highlighting its role in fostering inclusive economic development. By positioning Sakti Cafe within the broader discourse on social entrepreneurship and gender equity, this research contributes to the growing body of literature that underscores the importance of women-led economic initiatives in emerging economies.

## 1.1 Need of the Study

This study is essential to comprehensively understand the effectiveness and impact of Sakti Cafe in empowering women and advancing livelihoods in Odisha. By evaluating the challenges faced by women in accessing economic opportunities and the role of Sakti Cafe in addressing these challenges, the study will provide valuable insights for policymakers, NGOs, and other stakeholders involved in women's empowerment initiatives. Additionally, it will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on gender equality, entrepreneurship, and community development, informing future interventions aimed at promoting sustainable livelihoods and fostering economic independence among women in similar contexts.

## 1.2 Research Problem

The research problem for this study revolves around understanding the specific mechanisms through which Sakti Cafe influences women's financial empowerment and livelihood improvement in Odisha. This entails investigating the socio-economic barriers faced by women in the region, exploring the extent to which Sakti Cafe addresses these barriers, and identifying the key factors that contribute to its effectiveness. Additionally, the research problem involves assessing the sustainability and scalability of Sakti Cafe's model, considering its long-term impact on women's economic empowerment and the broader community. By addressing these aspects, the study aims to provide actionable insights for enhancing the effectiveness of similar initiatives and promoting inclusive development in Odisha and beyond.
**1.3 Objectives of the Study**

➤ To assess the socio-economic barriers faced by women in Odisha that hinder their financial independence and livelihood advancement.

➤ To examine the role of Sakti Cafe in addressing these barriers and empowering women through training, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

➤ To evaluate the impact of Sakti Cafe on women's financial empowerment, including income generation, savings, and economic decision-making.

➤ To explore the broader socio-cultural implications of Sakti Cafe's initiatives on gender roles, empowerment dynamics, and community perceptions.

➤ To analyze the sustainability and scalability of Sakti Cafe's model, identifying key factors that contribute to its effectiveness and potential challenges for replication.

➤ To provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, NGOs, and other stakeholders to enhance the impact of women's empowerment initiatives and promote inclusive development in Odisha and similar contexts.

**2. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE**

The literature on women's economic empowerment underscores the multifaceted dimensions of empowerment, focusing on income generation, asset ownership, decision-making power, and social structures. Early works, such as Kabeer (2005), highlight the importance of economic participation in enhancing women's agency and well-being, emphasizing income generation and asset ownership as key components of empowerment. Sen (1990), through his capability approach, stresses the need to go beyond merely increasing income, proposing that true empowerment lies in expanding women's capabilities and choices in life.

Malhotra et al. (2002) investigate the relationship between women's economic independence and household decision-making, suggesting that financial autonomy positively influences women's bargaining power and autonomy within the

household. Mayoux (2001) advocates for a gender-transformative approach, which addresses social norms and power structures that hinder women's empowerment, urging for more sustainable, long-term changes. Duflo (2012), through randomized control trials, provides empirical evidence of the effectiveness of economic empowerment programs for women, showing positive impacts on their autonomy and economic outcomes.

Agarwal (1997) explores the influence of property rights on women's empowerment, revealing that access to and control over resources, such as land, significantly enhance women's decision-making power and well-being. Goetz and Sen Gupta (1996) examine how economic resources shape women's bargaining power within households, highlighting that financial independence enables women to negotiate for better outcomes in both familial and broader societal contexts.

Nussbaum (2000) proposes a capabilities framework to assess women's empowerment, focusing on freedom and choice as essential for achieving substantive equality. Ghosh (2002) discusses the gendered impact of globalization on women's employment patterns and economic opportunities, advocating for policies that mitigate negative effects and promote gender equality. Datta (2015) explores microfinance's role in women's empowerment, showing how access to credit and financial services can enhance women's economic status and decision-making power.

Quisumbing (2003) emphasizes the importance of women's land rights in improving household welfare and food security, demonstrating that gendered control over assets like land can enhance productivity and well-being. Goetz (1995) introduces the concept of "microfinance plus," advocating for gender-sensitive strategies within microfinance programs to foster empowerment beyond financial inclusion. Mahmud (2003) examines the impact of microcredit on women's empowerment in Bangladesh, emphasizing the complex relationship between credit access, social norms, and women's agency.

Kabeer (1999) critically assesses the concept of empowerment in development discourse, advocating for a broader understanding of empowerment that incorporates social, political, and economic dimensions. Molyneux (1985)
explores the concept of the “patriarchal bargain,” showing how women negotiate their interests within existing power structures. Cornwall (2000) argues that empowerment is deeply context-dependent, emphasizing the importance of local contexts and women’s agency in shaping empowerment processes.

Chant (2008) addresses the feminization of poverty, noting the disproportionate impact of economic globalization and neoliberal policies on women's access to resources and opportunities. Fernández-Kelly (1983) examines how gendered labor market dynamics and informal economies intersect with women's household responsibilities, revealing how these constraints affect women's economic participation. Doss (2001) discusses how property rights, particularly land ownership, influence women's economic empowerment, offering empirical evidence that land ownership increases women's decision-making power.

Moser (1993) advocates for a gender-sensitive approach to development, calling for policies that address both practical and strategic gender needs to promote women's economic empowerment. Batliwala (1994) explores empowerment as a transformative process, emphasizing the importance of agency, voice, and participation in both individual and collective empowerment. Benería (2003) highlights the gendered division of labor, calling for structural policy changes to address inequalities in women's participation in the labor force. Elson (1991) introduces the concept of social reproduction, discussing how unpaid care work perpetuates gender inequalities and limits women's participation in formal economic activities.

Kandiyoti (1988) examines patriarchy and its intersection with class, ethnicity, and other social divisions to understand how gender hierarchies shape women's experiences of oppression. Shahra (2005) discusses the contradictory effects of neoliberal policies on women's empowerment, particularly in the context of economic globalization.

Recent studies continue to build upon these foundational works. Duflo (2024) conducts a meta-analysis that reinforces the positive impact of women's economic empowerment (WEE) on human development indicators such as income, consumption, and asset accumulation, while also recognizing the need for interventions that

address underlying social norms to maximize the impact of WEE programs. Similarly, a study by Newiak, Sahay, and Srivastava (2024) examines intimate partner violence (IPV) in relation to women's economic empowerment across various Indian states, highlighting that while economic activity often correlates with a higher risk of IPV, factors like paid formal employment and supportive legal frameworks can mitigate this risk.

Aryan (2024) investigates the role of digital technologies in women's empowerment in Bihar's Self-Help Groups (SHGs), showing that mobile banking, e-commerce platforms, and digital literacy programs enhance women's income-generating capabilities. However, infrastructure gaps and limited digital literacy remain significant challenges, indicating the need for targeted interventions to bridge the digital divide.

Desai et al. (2024) highlight how financial literacy and entrepreneurial orientation enhance rural women's financial well-being in India, emphasizing the role of education in economic empowerment. Similarly, Nidhan et al. (2024) examine social entrepreneurship's impact, showcasing case studies of women-led ventures that drive socio-economic change.

Iskenderian (2025) discusses global efforts to provide financial services to unbanked women, stressing the need for inclusive banking policies. Odede (2024) underscores the transformative role of women's empowerment in breaking poverty cycles through education and financial support.

However, barriers persist. The Cherie Blair Foundation for Women (2025) reveals that high mobile data costs hinder women entrepreneurs in developing nations, limiting their digital engagement. These studies reaffirm that while financial inclusion and entrepreneurship empower women, structural barriers must be addressed for lasting impact.

These recent works highlight the complexity of women's empowerment, emphasizing the necessity of addressing both economic and social factors. As research continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly clear that sustainable empowerment requires not only financial resources but also social, political, and infrastructural support to overcome the barriers women face in achieving equality and agency.
# 3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The research methodology for this study will employ a mixed-methods approach to comprehensively address the outlined objectives. Quantitative methods, such as surveys and statistical analysis, will be utilized to assess the socio-economic barriers faced by women, evaluate the impact of Sakti Cafe's initiatives, and measure changes in key indicators of women's empowerment. Qualitative methods, including interviews, focus group discussions, and case studies, will provide deeper insights into the lived experiences of women participants, the effectiveness of empowerment strategies, and the socio-cultural dynamics influencing women's economic agency. This combination of quantitative and qualitative data will facilitate a nuanced understanding of Sakti Cafe's role in empowering women and advancing livelihoods in Odisha.

## 3.1 Research Design

The research design for this study will entail a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach. Firstly, a quantitative phase will involve the distribution of surveys to gather data on socio-economic barriers faced by women in Odisha, as well as to assess the impact of Sakti Cafe's initiatives on key indicators of women's empowerment. Statistical analysis will be conducted to examine correlations and trends within the data.

Subsequently, a qualitative phase will be implemented, involving in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with women participants of Sakti Cafe. This qualitative component aims to provide deeper insights into the experiences of women, the effectiveness of empowerment strategies, and the socio-cultural factors influencing women's economic agency. Data triangulation will be employed to integrate findings from both quantitative and qualitative phases, enabling a comprehensive understanding of Sakti Cafe's contribution to women's empowerment and livelihood improvement in Odisha.

## 3.2 Research Tool

Based on the research objectives outlined, the following research tools are proposed:

**Socio-Economic Barriers Assessment Survey:** A structured survey questionnaire will

be developed to collect quantitative data on the socio-economic challenges faced by women in Odisha.

Questions will cover areas such as income levels, access to education and resources, employment opportunities, household responsibilities, and barriers to financial independence.

Likert scale items will assess the severity of barriers and the perceived impact on women's ability to achieve financial independence and livelihood advancement.

**Sakti Cafe Program Evaluation Framework:**

A structured evaluation framework will be designed to assess the effectiveness of Sakti Cafe's initiatives in addressing socio-economic barriers and empowering women.

Data collection tools will include checklists, observation forms, and documentation reviews to capture information on training programs, employment opportunities, and entrepreneurial support provided by Sakti Cafe.

Key performance indicators (KPIs) will be defined to measure the outcomes of Sakti Cafe's interventions, including changes in income levels, savings behavior, economic decision-making, and women's overall empowerment status.

**In-Depth Interviews and Focus Group Discussions:**

Semi-structured interview guides and focus group discussion protocols will be developed to explore women's experiences with Sakti Cafe and its impact on their lives.

Open-ended questions will elicit qualitative insights into the perceived benefits, challenges, and transformative effects of Sakti Cafe's programs on women's financial empowerment and livelihood advancement.

Participants will also be encouraged to share their perspectives on gender roles, empowerment dynamics, and community perceptions related to Sakti Cafe's initiatives.

**Sustainability and Scalability Assessment Toolkit:**

A toolkit will be created to assess the sustainability and scalability of Sakti Cafe's
model, considering factors such as organizational capacity, resource mobilization, community engagement, and replication potential.

Key informant interviews, stakeholder consultations, and SWOT analysis will be conducted to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with Sakti Cafe's sustainability and scalability efforts.

**Policy and Stakeholder Engagement Workshops:**

Policy briefs, workshops, and stakeholder consultations will be organized to disseminate research findings and facilitate dialogue among policymakers, NGOs, community leaders, and other stakeholders.

Actionable recommendations will be developed based on research findings to inform policy formulation, program design, and strategic planning for enhancing women's empowerment and inclusive development in Odisha and similar contexts.

By utilizing these comprehensive research tools, the study aims to generate robust evidence and actionable insights to support the advancement of women's financial independence and livelihoods in Odisha and beyond.

**4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION**

**Research Objectives 1:** To assess the socio-economic barriers faced by women in Odisha that hinder their financial independence and livelihood advancement.

In Odisha, women face socio-economic barriers that impede their financial independence and livelihood advancement. Limited access to education due to cultural norms and financial constraints restricts their employment opportunities. Gender disparities in inheritance rights and property ownership deprive women of assets and capital necessary for entrepreneurship or investment. Traditional gender roles confine women to domestic responsibilities, limiting their ability to pursue career advancement or participate in the workforce. Additionally, lack of access to financial services and discriminatory practices in the workplace further exacerbate these challenges, hindering women's economic

empowerment and perpetuating cycles of poverty.

**Research Objectives 2:** To examine the role of Sakti Cafe in addressing these barriers and empowering women through training, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Sakti Cafe plays a crucial role in addressing socio-economic barriers faced by women in Odisha by offering training, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Through its vocational training programs, women gain valuable skills in culinary arts and hospitality, enhancing their employability and financial independence. By providing employment opportunities within the cafe, Sakti empowers women economically, allowing them to earn a sustainable income and support their families. Moreover, Sakti Cafe encourages entrepreneurship among women by fostering a supportive environment for them to develop and showcase their culinary talents, empowering them to start their own food businesses. By breaking traditional gender norms and providing a platform for women to thrive professionally, Sakti Cafe contributes to the broader goal of gender equality and women's empowerment in Odisha, ultimately creating pathways for socio-economic advancement and community development.

**Research Objectives 3:** To evaluate the impact of Sakti Cafe on women's financial empowerment, including income generation, savings, and economic decision-making.

The impact of Sakti Cafe on women's financial empowerment is significant. Through employment opportunities and entrepreneurial ventures, women gain increased income generation capabilities, leading to greater financial independence. The cafe not only provides a source of steady income but also fosters a supportive environment for women to develop their skills and pursue career advancement. Additionally, by encouraging savings habits and financial literacy through training programs, Sakti Cafe equips women with the knowledge and resources to manage their finances effectively. As women gain control over their economic resources, they become more involved in economic decision-making processes within their households and communities, challenging traditional gender roles. Overall, Sakti Cafe's initiatives contribute to women's economic empowerment by expanding their
income-generating opportunities, promoting
savings behavior, and enhancing their
participation in economic decision-making, thus
creating a ripple effect of positive change in their
lives and communities.

**Research Objectives 4:** To explore the broader socio-cultural implications of Sakti Cafe's initiatives on gender roles, empowerment dynamics, and community perceptions.

Sakti Cafe's initiatives extend beyond economic empowerment, influencing socio-cultural dynamics in Odisha. By challenging traditional gender roles through the promotion of women's employment and entrepreneurship, the cafe fosters a shift towards more gender-equitable norms. This change in perception not only enhances women's status within their families and communities but also encourages broader societal recognition of women's capabilities beyond domestic roles. Moreover, as women become visible leaders and contributors to the local economy, Sakti Cafe serves as a catalyst for changing perceptions about women's roles in society, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and empowered community fabric in Odisha.

**Research Objectives 5:** To analyze the sustainability and scalability of Sakti Cafe's model, identifying key factors that contribute to its effectiveness and potential challenges for replication.

The sustainability and scalability of Sakti Cafe's model hinge on several factors. Its emphasis on vocational training, employment, and entrepreneurship aligns with Odisha's growing focus on skill development and women's empowerment. Leveraging local resources and partnerships ensures community buy-in and long-term viability. However, challenges may arise in replicating the model due to varying socio-economic contexts, limited access to resources, and cultural resistance to women's empowerment in certain areas. Ensuring adequate support systems, adapting to local needs, and securing sustainable funding are critical for scalability. Despite challenges, Sakti Cafe's proven impact and innovative approach position it as a promising model for empowering women and fostering socio-economic development across Odisha.

**Research Objectives 6:** To provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, NGOs, and other stakeholders to enhance the impact of

women's empowerment initiatives and promote inclusive development in Odisha and similar contexts.

To optimize the impact of women's empowerment initiatives like Sakti Cafe and promote inclusive development in Odisha and similar contexts, policymakers, NGOs, and stakeholders can implement the following actionable recommendations:

**Expand Access to Vocational Training:** Invest in vocational training programs targeting women in rural and urban areas across different blocks in Odisha. These programs should offer skills relevant to local industries and market demand, aligning with Sakti Cafe's model. Collaboration with local educational institutions and NGOs can help in reaching a larger audience and providing comprehensive training.

**Facilitate Financial Inclusion:** Work towards enhancing women's access to financial services such as microfinance, savings accounts, and insurance schemes. Establishing partnerships with financial institutions and NGOs can facilitate the provision of tailored financial products to meet the needs of women entrepreneurs trained through initiatives like Sakti Cafe.

**Promote Entrepreneurship Ecosystems:** Create an enabling environment for women entrepreneurs by offering business development support, mentorship, and access to markets. Establishing incubation centers or business hubs in each block can provide resources and networking opportunities for aspiring women entrepreneurs, leveraging the success of Sakti Cafe as a case study.

**Address Gender-Based Discrimination:** Develop and implement gender-sensitive policies and interventions to challenge patriarchal norms and practices that hinder women's empowerment. Conduct awareness campaigns and community dialogues to promote gender equality and women's rights, building on the momentum generated by initiatives like Sakti Cafe.

**Invest in Infrastructure Development:** Improve access to basic infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and sanitation facilities in rural areas to facilitate economic activities and entrepreneurship. Enhancing connectivity and infrastructure will enable women to access markets, resources, and support services,
fostering sustainable development in the blocks
where Sakti Cafe operates.

**Foster Public-Private Partnerships:** Encourage collaboration between government agencies, private sector entities, and civil society organizations to leverage resources and expertise for women's empowerment initiatives. Public-private partnerships can support the expansion of initiatives like Sakti Cafe by providing funding, technical assistance, and market linkages.

**Empower Women in Decision-Making:** Promote women's participation and leadership in local governance structures, community organizations, and economic institutions. Strengthening women's voices and agency in decision-making processes will ensure their needs and priorities are adequately represented, contributing to more inclusive development in Odisha's blocks.

**Monitor and Evaluate Impact:** Establish robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess the effectiveness and sustainability of women's empowerment initiatives. Collecting data on key indicators such as income generation, employment, and women's socio-economic status will facilitate evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement of programs like Sakti Cafe.

**Scale Up Successful Models:** Identify and replicate successful women's empowerment models like Sakti Cafe in other blocks and regions of Odisha. Tailor interventions to local contexts while maintaining core principles of vocational training, employment, and entrepreneurship, ensuring scalability and relevance across diverse settings.

**Sensitize Stakeholders:** Conduct sensitization workshops and capacity-building sessions for stakeholders including policymakers, community leaders, and men and boys. Promote understanding of the benefits of women's empowerment for overall development and encourage active support and participation in initiatives like Sakti Cafe.

By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders can enhance the impact of women's empowerment initiatives like Sakti Cafe and contribute to more inclusive and sustainable development in Odisha's blocks and similar contexts.

## 5. CONCLUSION

By implementing these recommendations, Sakti Cafe can further strengthen its role as a catalyst for women's empowerment, entrepreneurship, and community development in Odisha. Through continuous adaptation and innovation, the cafe can address emerging challenges and opportunities, ensuring a lasting positive impact on women and communities across the region.

## 6. SUGGESTIONS

Based on the comprehensive analysis of Sakti Cafe's impact on women's empowerment and socio-cultural dynamics in Odisha, coupled with actionable recommendations for stakeholders, here are specific suggestions for further enhancing the effectiveness and scalability of Sakti Cafe's model.

**Diversification of Vocational Training Programs:** While Sakti Cafe's focus on culinary arts and hospitality has been instrumental in providing employment opportunities for women, diversifying vocational training programs to include other in-demand skills such as garment making, handicrafts, or digital literacy can broaden women's employment prospects, especially in regions with different economic landscapes.

**Customized Financial Inclusion Programs:** Collaborate with financial institutions and NGOs to design tailored financial inclusion programs specifically for women trained through Sakti Cafe. This may include providing access to microfinance loans, setting up savings groups, or offering financial literacy workshops to empower women to make informed financial decisions and invest in their enterprises.

**Establishment of Satellite Cafes in Underserved Areas:** Expand Sakti Cafe's reach by establishing satellite cafes in underserved rural areas across different blocks in Odisha. These cafes can serve as hubs for vocational training, employment, and entrepreneurship, catering to the unique needs and preferences of local communities while promoting women's economic empowerment on a broader scale.

**Integration of Gender Sensitization Workshops:** Integrate gender sensitization workshops into Sakti Cafe's training programs to challenge stereotypes and promote gender equality among participants. By addressing underlying social
norms and attitudes towards gender roles, Sakti Cafe can contribute to creating a more supportive environment for women's empowerment within communities.

### Strengthening Community Partnerships:
Strengthen partnerships with local community organizations, women's groups, and self-help groups to enhance outreach and engagement with potential beneficiaries. By leveraging existing networks and resources within communities, Sakti Cafe can amplify its impact and foster a sense of ownership and sustainability among stakeholders.

### Introduction of Mentorship Programs:
Implement mentorship programs where successful women entrepreneurs mentor aspiring entrepreneurs trained through Sakti Cafe. These mentorship relationships can provide valuable guidance, support, and networking opportunities, empowering women to navigate challenges and succeed in their ventures.

### Incorporation of Technology:
Integrate technology into Sakti Cafe's operations and training programs to enhance efficiency, reach, and impact. This may involve utilizing online platforms for vocational training, digital marketing for promoting women-owned businesses, and mobile banking services to facilitate financial transactions and savings.

### Advocacy for Policy Reforms:
Advocate for policy reforms at the state level to create an enabling environment for women's entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. This includes advocating for gender-responsive policies on access to credit, land ownership, and business registration procedures, as well as measures to address gender-based discrimination in the workplace.

### Regular Monitoring and Evaluation:
Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track the progress and impact of Sakti Cafe's initiatives over time. This includes collecting data on key performance indicators such as employment rates, income levels, and women's participation in decision-making processes, to inform evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement.

### Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration:
Foster knowledge sharing and collaboration with other women's empowerment initiatives, both within Odisha and beyond. By sharing best practices,

lessons learned, and innovative approaches, Sakti Cafe can contribute to a broader movement for women's empowerment and inclusive development.

Digital accessibility plays a crucial role in fostering entrepreneurship, particularly for women, by enabling broader market reach and resource access. Affordable internet enhances women's business participation (Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, 2025). Additionally, financial empowerment programs emphasizing literacy and entrepreneurial training positively impact women-led ventures (Desai, Sensarma, & Thomas, 2024). These findings highlight the need for policies promoting digital inclusion and financial literacy to bridge gender gaps in entrepreneurship and drive economic growth.

## 7. POLICY INTERVENTIONS AND FUTURE RESEARCH DIRECTION

To enhance women's entrepreneurship, policymakers should integrate financial literacy programs with digital inclusion strategies, ensuring equitable access to critical resources and opportunities (Nidhan et al., 2024; Iskenderian, 2025). Tailored financial training and improved internet accessibility policies can empower women-led businesses and foster greater economic participation.

Future research should explore how localized financial initiatives help overcome digital barriers, strengthening financial independence and long-term sustainability for women entrepreneurs (Odede, 2024). These measures can bridge gender disparities and drive inclusive economic growth.

## DISCLAIMER (ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE)

For this research I have used generative AI technologies such as Large Language Models have been used during the writing and editing of this manuscript. The AI tool utilized is OpenAI's ChatGPT-4. Below are the details of its usage:"

**Name of AI Tool:** ChatGPT-4

**Version & Model:** GPT-4 by OpenAI

**Source:** OpenAI (https://openai.com/)

**Purpose of Use:** The AI tool was used for language refinement, grammar checking, and improving readability. It was not used for generating original research content, data analysis, or conceptual frameworks.
## ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The author gratefully acknowledges the financial support received under the Seed Money Scheme of Gangadhar Meher University, Sambalpur, which significantly contributed to the successful completion of this research work and its subsequent publication in a reputed journal Asian Journal of Education and Social Studies.

## COMPETING INTERESTS

Author has declared that no competing interests exist.

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