Lel designs custom-made high-quality furniture, using semi-precious stones and marble. Owned by a mother daughter duo; Farhana and Mehrunissa Asad; Lel works to preserve and evolve the art of handcrafted stone inlay, while giving employment opportunities to artisans displaced by conflict. With Karandaaz Women Ventures’ investment, Lel has a showroom for its designs and is in the process of constructing a new workshop. It is also working to enhance its international presence, and strengthen production.

Noha Global is the brainchild of Neelofer Kazmi who spotted a service gap during her employment with the United Nations. Noha Global is the only facility management service provider in Pakistan registered with the International Facility Management Association. Noha Global provides fully integrated waste management, HR outsourcing, and procurement services to its corporate clients. Karandaaz Women Ventures’ investment has helped Noha Global carry out the necessary capital investment to offer a full range of facility management services and to expand operations.

Polly and Other Stories is Pakistan’s first online store for handmade, unique products sourced directly from artisans and small businesses from across the region. Founded by the dynamic duo Amneh Sheikh Farooqi and Angie Braid, Polly & Other Stories is currently working with 65 micro businesses, 80 percent of which are owned by or employ a significant number of women. Karandaaz Women Ventures’ investment enabled the business to expand from an online operation to a brick and mortar outlet, which increased sales and provided higher brand visibility.