Women Startup Stories

In the ever-evolving world of corporate travel, Prerana Sharma founder and CEO of TravOinspire Global Pvt Ltd Global Pvt Ltd, stands as a trailblazer. With over 15 years of experience and a vision that seamlessly blends innovation, empowerment, and excellence, she has built a company that is not just redefining travel management but also creating meaningful change for women across India. Founded in December 2015, Travoinspire was born out of Prerana’s desire to offer more than just travel solutions—it’s a company rooted in creating unique, client-centric experiences. By integrating her expertise in HR, marketing, and operational efficiency, Prerana has propelled Travoinspire into becoming a trusted travel partner for over 100 corporate clients globally. Travoinspire specializes in bespoke corporate and luxury travel experiences, from streamlined MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) solutions to personalized travel arrangements. But the company’s mission goes far beyond efficiency—it’s about elevating travel into an art form while empowering its clients to navigate today’s complex travel landscapes with ease. What truly sets Travoinspire apart is its commitment to women’s empowerment, especially those from defense backgrounds. As a proud advocate for veer naris (war widows) and women affiliated with the armed forces, Prerana has ensured that her organization isn’t just women-led but also 100% women-staffed. By providing meaningful employment opportunities, training, and support, Travoinspire is helping women achieve financial independence and thrive in the travel industry. This commitment underscores Prerana’s belief that businesses can be both profitable and purposeful, uplifting communities while achieving success. Under Prerana’s leadership, Travoinspire is not only revolutionizing corporate travel but also branching into luxury destination weddings. By showcasing India as a premier location for high-end weddings, the company delivers seamless planning and coordination, blending elegance with cultural authenticity. From venue selection to guest logistics, Travoinspire handles every detail, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Prerana’s journey is a testament to the power of vision and determination. From managing corporate travel to empowering women and promoting India’s tourism sector, she has turned her company into a symbol of innovation and social impact. Her work reminds us that true leadership is not just about building a successful business but also about creating opportunities for others to rise. With Travoinspire, Prerana Sharma has proven that travel is more than a service—it’s a transformative experience. And through her unwavering commitment to excellence and empowerment, she is inspiring a new generation of women to dream big and redefine success on their own terms. Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #womenstartup #entrepreneur

Ananya S. is the visionary co-founder of Sukham,a brand that is revolutionizing men's wellness in a way that blends ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern science. Born and raised in Delhi, Ananya, alongside her co-founders Vivek Krishna Nitin Deswal and Ishan Pant embarked on a mission in 2022 to create a space where men could feel comfortable discussing their intimate health issues openly—without shame or stigma. Sukham is not just a business; it's a movement that aims to empower men, offering them solutions for issues that have long been considered taboo. At its core, Sukham is a direct-to-consumer (D2C) platform dedicated to providing safe, effective, and scientifically-backed Ayurvedic products. Its unique approach combines traditional Vajikarana remedies with cutting-edge technology to address common yet often overlooked sexual health concerns such as erectile dysfunction,premature ejaculation,and fertility issues. Sukham isn’t just about selling products; it’s about offering personalized care and holistic wellness solutions, ranging from online diagnostic tests to expert counseling and dietary advice—all provided through digital channels. Ananya and her team realized that men, especially in a country with such deep-rooted cultural taboos around sex, often face difficulty discussing their sexual health. Sukham’s mission is to break these barriers, providing a safe space for men to seek help, and offering a comprehensive, end-to-end solution for their wellness. From diagnosis to supplementation to mental health support, Sukham is an all-encompassing solution designed for both the “needy" those suffering from sexual dysfunction—and the “greedy" those looking to enhance their sexual wellness with products like Ayurvedic date-night shots and lubes. Ananya's unwavering belief in honesty, openness,and empowerment drives Sukham’s philosophy. In an industry often clouded by secrecy and embarrassment, Sukham stands as a beacon of transparency,allowing men to speak openly about their issues and seek the help they deserve without fear of judgment. Sukham holistic approach isn’t just about physical health; it extends to mental well-being as well. By offering side-effect-free products backed by the approval of India’s Ministry of AYUSH, Sukham ensures that each product is safe, lab-tested, and scientifically validated. But what makes Sukham truly unique is its commitment to customer care. The team understands that every man’s journey is different, which is why they offer personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs. The digital-first model allows for consultation with Ayurvedic experts, clinical psychologists, and dieticians—all from the comfort of home. Whether it’s through telehealth consultations,personalized diet charts,or counseling,Sukham delivers a level of care that goes beyond just providing a product.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #entrepreneur

In a nation where nearly 80% of the workforce operates in the unorganized sector, millions of individuals face daily uncertainty about their financial future. Amid this challenge, Sonal Agrawal Agrawal,co-founder of SurakshitU,is charting a bold new path. Her mission? To empower India’s underserved communities—women, workers with disabilities, and transgender individuals—by providing them with financial security and dignity. Her journey is one of purpose and passion. With extensive experience as the former COO of Lakshya, where she championed financial product accessibility for low-income groups, Sonal witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of financial insecurity in the informal sector. She saw people lose their livelihoods due to unforeseen health emergencies or wage loss, pushing already marginalized families further into poverty. Determined to address these challenges, she co-founded SurakshitU Solutions Private Limited,an organization dedicated to bridging the gap in financial security for India's unorganized workforce. At its core, SurakshitU is a lifeline for those left behind by traditional financial systems. The startup’s flagship product, Hospicash, is a testament to its vision: providing wage-loss protection for informal workers during hospitalization. In a sector where fluctuating incomes and lack of government support are the norm, such a product ensures families can survive financial shocks without losing their livelihoods. SurakshitU doesn’t just create products—it creates trust. By offering affordable health, life, and livelihood insurance through simple, accessible platforms, it addresses the needs of those who often distrust complex financial systems. The startup’s innovative distribution methods—focusing on mid and small enterprises and bridging the digital divide—have made it easier for informal workers to access much-needed financial protection. Sonal’s leadership emphasizes assisted solutions,ensuring that every individual, no matter their digital literacy or financial background, feels empowered to secure their future. By addressing wage loss and providing comprehensive support, SurakshitU is creating ripple effects that extend far beyond the individual, uplifting families and communities. What sets Sonal Agrawal apart is her unwavering commitment to economic empowerment.For her, SurakshitU Solutions Private Limited isn’t just about insurance products—it’s about giving people the tools to stand resilient in the face of adversity. Sonal Agrawal and SurakshitU are just getting started. With ambitious plans to expand their reach and impact, they are poised to transform the lives of millions more in India’s informal sector. Their vision is simple yet profound: to create a world where no worker is left to face financial shocks alone.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #womeninbusiness #technology #financialinclusion #financetech

In a world where nearly one-third of all food produced is wasted, two women decided to take on the challenge head-on. Meet Rubal Chib and Dr. Srishti Batra the trailblazing founders of Bengaluru-based qZense Labs a startup that leverages cutting-edge technology to reduce inefficiencies in the fresh food supply chain. With a vision to build a more sustainable and efficient food ecosystem, their inspiring journey is a testament to the power of innovation and determination. Rubal Chib, an engineer-turned-entrepreneur, has always been driven by a passion for innovation with social impact. As the CEO of QZense Labs, her mission is clear: transform the fresh food supply chain through data-driven solutions. A recipient of the National Technology Award 2023, Rubal has been featured in prestigious platforms such as Forbes Asia 100 to Watch,Shark Tank India, and the MIT Technology Review. Her leadership is steering QZense Labs toward becoming a game-changer in the agritech space. Dr. Srishti Batra,the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, is a deep-tech pioneer with a remarkable academic and professional background. Armed with a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the National Centre for Biological Sciences (TIFR) and prestigious fellowships like the Khorana Fellowship,Dr. Batra’s journey from academia to entrepreneurship reflects her commitment to using technology for societal benefit. Her accolades include the National Technology Award 2023 and an invitation to the 75th Republic Day Parade as a Special Guest by the Government of India. The idea for QZense Labs took root from a pressing issue in the global food supply chain: the inefficiency of traditional methods in assessing the quality of fresh produce. Together, Rubal and Dr. Srishti envisioned a solution that could address the problem at its core by harnessing IoT,machine learning,and advanced sensor technology. Their startup introduced NIR spectroscopy,artificial olfaction,and data analytics to revolutionize the way food quality is measured. QZense Labs stands out not just for its innovative technology but also for its vision to create a sustainable food ecosystem. By enabling food suppliers to predict spoilage and optimize logistics, the company has saved tons of produce from being wasted, creating a ripple effect on the environment and economy. The startup’s AI-powered algorithms and IoT solutions empower farmers, distributors, and retailers to make informed decisions, ensuring that high-quality fresh produce reaches consumers efficiently. QZense Labs is just getting started. With plans to expand their technology across global markets, the duo is committed to further transforming the fresh food supply chain. Their ultimate goal? A world where no food is wasted due to inefficiencies and where every piece of produce gets the value it deserves.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #technology #innovation #freshfood #foodtech #AI

In a world where water scarcity looms large, Bhawna Garg, an advertising professional, posed a simple yet profound question: Why make shampoos with 75% water when it adds no real benefit? This thought, sparked while watching a shampoo-making tutorial, ignited a fire within her to find a better, more sustainable solution. Alongside her partner, Nikhil, a software engineer, Bhawna set out on a year-long journey of experimentation and innovation. Their efforts culminated in the creation of MINIWINI India’s first brand to introduce a Zero Water Formula Shampoo Paste and Bodywash Paste. The concept was groundbreaking: products that are not only highly effective but also eco-conscious, reducing water wastage and plastic pollution, while offering luxurious care without compromise. The motivation behind MINIWINI goes beyond just making a great product. Water scarcity is a growing global concern, with the cosmetic industry alone using billions of liters of water annually. Bhawna Garg and Nikhil Garg recognized that it was time for change. MINIWINI’s mission is simple: conserve water, reduce plastic waste, and offer toxin-free, effective products for a mindful generation of consumers. By shifting to a concentrated, paste format, MINIWINI eliminates the need for excessive water in the formula, making their products compact, travel-friendly, and spill-proof. Traditional shampoos are often diluted with water to make them cheaper to produce and transport, but MINIWINI’s concentrated paste is not only more effective but also more sustainable, saving water and reducing packaging waste. But the innovation doesn’t stop at water-saving. MINIWINI’s Zero Water Formula is crafted with natural ingredients like Aloe Vera, Glycerin, Rosemary Oil, and Pro-Vitamin B5—each chosen for their hydrating, nourishing, and strengthening properties. Unlike conventional shampoos that are filled with harsh chemicals, MINIWINI’s products are free from parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances, offering a toxin-free luxury experience. In a world where most beauty products are water-heavy and packaged in plastic, MINIWINI represents a paradigm shift. The unique paste format is not only effective but also eco-conscious, offering a cleaner, greener alternative to traditional hair and body care. It’s a revolution in personal care, and it’s happening right now. With their innovative approach, MINIWINI isn’t just about creating products—it’s about leading a movement for sustainability. By switching to their Zero Water Formula, consumers are making a difference, one small step at a time. MINIWINI isn’t just changing the way we care for our hair and skin—it’s changing the way we think about the world. So, the next time you reach for a bottle, ask yourself: Is it time for a MINI step toward a big win for the planet?Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #womeninbusiness

In 2018, four young dreamers from Udaipur set out on a mission to revolutionize fashion for India’s youth. They created Beyoung.in a brand designed to deliver affordable, stylish clothing that embodies the spirit of young India. What started as a small, bootstrapped startup quickly became a game-changer in the fashion industry, with Rs 100 Crore in revenue in just five years. The founders, Shivam Soni Shivani Soni Sakshi Soni and Shankar Mali all shared a common vision: to provide trendy fashion that didn’t break the bank. Shivam, hailing from a business family, wanted to create jobs in his hometown and offer a brand that represented the youthful energy of India. He teamed up with his sister Shivani, a talented fashion designer, and together they founded Beyoung. Beyoung’s mission was clear: to offer affordable yet stylish clothing for young people, while breaking the stereotype that fashion must be expensive. “We want people to look and feel good without compromising on quality or price,” says Sakshi Soni, Co-founder and CMO. The name Beyoung itself reflects this ethos—a brand for those who embrace their youth, no matter their age. From the start, Beyoung stood out for its innovative approach. The brand focused on customizable combos, allowing customers to mix and match clothing items to create their own unique styles. With an emphasis on both plus-size fashion and accessibility, Beyoung made it easier for people of all shapes and sizes to express themselves through fashion. What truly set Beyoung apart was its use of technology. The brand integrated AI-powered algorithms to offer personalized product recommendations, and used data-driven decision-making to improve customer satisfaction. “We aim to make shopping seamless and fun,” says Shivam Soni, CEO. The journey wasn’t without its struggles, particularly when it came to building a team in a place with limited talent pools. But by creating a work environment that valued trust, collaboration, and innovation, Beyoung built a dedicated team of over 200 people, including graduates from IITs and IIMs. “We wanted to give young professionals a reason to stay in Udaipur and build something meaningful,” says Shivam. Looking ahead, Beyoung is poised for further expansion. The company secured Rs 40 Crore in funding to open more than 100 offline stores in Tier 2 and 3 cities. With plans to reach Rs 150 Crore in revenue in 2023-24, Beyoung is gearing up to become a household name in India’s fashion landscape. From a startup in Udaipur to a Rs 100 Crore fashion empire, Beyoung’s story is a testament to the power of vision, innovation, and a relentless commitment to serving the youth of India. With a customer base of over 3 million and a rapidly growing presence, Beyoung is well on its way to shaping the future of fashion in India.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #womeninbusiness