New Delhi: India has been chosen among 12 countries worldwide for the FIFA Women’s Development Programme (Commercial Strategy 2026), marking a significant step in strengthening the commercial ecosystem of women’s football.
The selection was confirmed by FIFA following India’s application and a detailed presentation submitted by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) outlining its long-term commercial roadmap and development plans.
The online programme, scheduled between May and October 2026, will focus on building sustainable commercial models for clubs, with tailored modules designed by FIFA for different stakeholders in women’s football across participating nations, AIFF said in a statement.
Officials said the initiative is expected to help clubs strengthen revenue systems, improve sponsorship engagement, and prepare for the upcoming women’s club licensing framework proposed by the Asian Football Confederation.
AIFF Deputy Secretary General M Satyanarayan said the timing of the programme aligns well with India’s growing progress in women’s football. He noted that the qualification of India’s senior, U20, and U17 women’s teams for their respective AFC Asian Cups reflects the country’s rising potential.
He added that youth development initiatives such as the ASMITA U13 Women’s Football League have helped build a strong grassroots foundation. With clubs now set to receive structured guidance on sponsorships, fan engagement, and business planning, he said the entire ecosystem is expected to benefit.
Satyanarayan further said that the FIFA initiative comes at a crucial time, especially as Indian Women’s League clubs move towards compliance with upcoming AFC club licensing requirements.
