Cluster Scheme
The Cluster Development Programme supports groups of micro and small enterprises operating in similar or related sectors. COWE utilizes this scheme to form women-led industrial and artisan clusters—such as textile, food processing, turmeric, and handicrafts clusters—across India. By aggregating entrepreneurs in a common geographic area, the scheme promotes resource sharing, economies of scale, technology upgrades, and collective branding. COWE acts as a facilitating agency that helps women access government grants for common facility centers, training, marketing support, and soft skills development.
This model is especially effective for first-generation women entrepreneurs who lack individual access to infrastructure, finance, or expertise. Through cluster development, COWE fosters a sense of community, enhances competitiveness, and uplifts rural and semi-urban livelihoods. It also enables women to transition from cottage industries to scalable enterprises capable of catering to national and international markets.