Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Empowering Communities, Building Futures

At Openheart, we recognize that true empowerment begins when women come together to support, inspire, and uplift one another. Through the formation of Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), we create platforms where women—especially from rural and economically weaker sections—can unite to improve their livelihoods, gain financial independence, and contribute to the development of their communities.

Operating across Vijayawada and nearby regions of Andhra Pradesh, our SHGs help women access microfinance, skill training, and mentorship to start small businesses and cooperative ventures. Each group functions as a circle of strength, where members save collectively, share ideas, and invest in income-generating activities that promote self-sufficiency and dignity.

Openheart provides ongoing support through capacity-building workshops, financial literacy programs, and marketing assistance to ensure these women can sustain and grow their enterprises. We also connect SHGs with local markets and digital platforms to enhance visibility and profitability.

Some innovative and regionally relevant business ideas for SHGs include:

Organic food processing and millet-based snack production — leveraging Andhra Pradesh’s rich agricultural base.

Handcrafted Kalamkari textiles and eco-friendly jute products — combining tradition with sustainable entrepreneurship.

Homemade pickles, spices, and traditional sweets (like bellam gavvalu or karivepaku podi) — catering to both local and online markets.

Eco-friendly products manufacturing such as leaf plates, paper bags, and natural cleaning agents.

Tailoring and embroidery units producing school uniforms, reusable cloth bags, and home décor items.

Urban terrace gardening and nursery services to promote green living in Vijayawada’s expanding urban spaces.

Through these initiatives, Openheart not only helps women earn a livelihood but also nurtures leadership, teamwork, and confidence. Every SHG member becomes a change- maker—transforming her home, her community, and ultimately, society.

Our vision is simple yet profound: to turn collective strength into collective progress—one self- help group, one empowered woman at a time.