The Ladies in Family Enterprise (LiFE) programme empowers women in business families through structured learning in leadership, entrepreneurship, and business dynamics

Mumbai: Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) is now accepting applications for batch 03 of its Ladies in Family Enterprise (LiFE) programme, offered by its Centre for Family Business & Entrepreneurship (CFBE). This four-month, on-campus, enriching programme is designed to nurture and empower women from business families who currently have little or no experience in the family business. Sessions are held two days a month. Eligible participants include wives, daughters-in-law, mothers, or daughters of business owners.

Prof. Tulsi Jayakumar, Executive Director, CFBE and Chairperson, Post Graduate Programme in Family Managed Business (PGPFMB), said: “Ninety per cent of Indian businesses are family-run. Women in these families often play silent yet important roles as ‘silent assets.’ LiFE seeks to uncover and empower these hidden gems by providing structured learning about business and its many facets. The ultimate goal is to build the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to manage a business and empower women in family enterprises.”

Since 1997, SPJIMR’s CFBE has pioneered formal education for family businesses and provides a vibrant platform for networking, learning, and growth, helping family businesses thrive by offering access to best practices and cutting-edge knowledge.

LiFE aims to build a foundational understanding of business and family dynamics, along with other essential aspects of family-run businesses. It also encourages participants to explore their roles within the family business or consider launching new entrepreneurial ventures, supported by family and professional networks. Sessions are led by experienced academicians, industry experts, and alumni.

Participant perspective

Sapna Vishnu, LiFE batch 01, Kuberan Sarees, Bengaluru, reflected on her journey: “Taking this step for myself, LiFE gave me the courage to enter my family business. I doubted whether a four-month, nine-day programme could make a difference, but LiFE proved to be the perfect starting point—helping me build confidence, learn business fundamentals, and find my voice in family boardroom conversations.”

Following the successful completion of two well-received batches, LiFE has enabled participants to graduate with newfound confidence, business knowledge, and clarity on how to leverage their unique capabilities. The flexible schedule allows for seamless integration of learning into daily routines. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate of participation from SPJIMR, recognised as India’s #1 B-school by the Financial Times Master in Management Ranking 2024.

Eligibility and programme details

The LiFE programme is designed for women from business families who may have little or no prior experience in the family business. Applicants must hold a minimum undergraduate degree, be over 30 years of age, and be comfortable with English as the medium of instruction.

Batch 3 commences on September 8, 2025, with sessions held twice a month on campus to accommodate participants’ personal and professional commitments. The curriculum is structured as follows:

• The first three months focus on general management concepts
• In the final month, participants can choose between two electives:
  • Functional specialisation to contribute directly to the family business, or
  • New Venture Creation for those looking to explore entrepreneurship.

Seats are limited and admissions will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

To learn more about the LiFE programme, visit: https://www.spjimr.org/course/ladies-in-family-enterprise-life/.

To apply, visit: https://spjimr-pgpfmb.nopaperforms.com/spjimr-life-application-form.