The project Swabhimaan commenced with a comprehensive research effort involving a survey of 22,000 women in various Kolkata wards, primarily affiliated with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under KMC, following SULM & NULM guidelines. A tailored questionnaire was designed in order to capture socio-economic data, enabling the selection of 10,000 participants for entrepreneurship orientation and business planning. The selection process involved scoring based on parameters like the Multiple Poverty Index and credit performance. An external expert group, including professors from IIMC and Calcutta University, financial experts, and SULM representatives, ensured a thorough evaluation, aligning the project with diverse perspectives and national/international experiences. The research-driven approach aimed at maximizing the impact of the program.