SHE Investment, a social entrepreneurship programme, has assisted more than 200 women to start small businesses. Since its launch in 2015, it has seen revenue grow more than 100 per cent, as shown on Thursday at its annual conference.

The capital gathering focused on the topic of “Investing in Women”.

SHE Investments co-founder and programme manager Lida Leom said since 2015, the focus has been on giving women training programmes, consulting and financial assistance and even providing equipment for their business operations.

Over the last three years, more than 200 women have been trained on how to start a profitable business.

“We believe that investing in women is key to supporting family financial systems and bringing economic growth. Women face a lack of support, so we need to work directly with them through training programmes, consultation and building their confidence,” she said.

SHE Investment is also able to help women source and buy equipment to use in business operations.

Bun Narat, deputy director-general at the General Department of Promoting Trade at the Ministry of Commerce, said She is bringing more gender balance to the business sector.

However, Narat noted that the percentage is still low near the top where women make up only five to 10 per cent of medium or large enterprises.

“Woman have the same capacity to join in the businesses, and we need to encourage and build their confidence so they can reach their goals,” she said, adding that moves need to be made in both the private and public sectors.

“We need time, commitment and support in order to transform woman in business,” she said.