The SAJIDA Foundation started its operations in 1987 as a home based charity focused on providing education to destitute children. In 1993, courtesy of Pfizer Inc., a U.S.-based pharmaceutical company, SAJIDA acquired a 51% stake in Renata Limited, formerly Pfizer Laboratories (Bangladesh) Ltd. Renata is currently one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in Bangladesh. SAJIDA's majority ownership in Renata allowed the foundation to expand its activities. SAJIDA launched its microfinance program in December 1993. Since then, the Foundation has also added Micro Insurance and Health programs. A large part of SAJIDA's programs are funded from dividend earnings from Renata Ltd.