Women Startup Stories

In a world dominated by mass-produced and chemically treated food, Aayushi Khandelwal along with her IIT-Guwahati peers Akhil Kansal and Kuldeep Parewa set out on a mission—to redefine food authenticity. Their brainchild, Anveshan was born in 2020 with a vision to bridge the gap between farmers and consumers while reviving traditional, minimally processed food practices. Aayushi’s inspiration stemmed from a personal health struggle. Seeking relief, she turned to her grandmother’s time-honored recipes, rich in Ayurvedic wisdom and natural goodness. The results were transformative, igniting a passion that led her to establish Anveshan, a brand committed to offering high-quality, chemical-free, and nutrient-rich food products sourced directly from Indian farmers. Unlike conventional brands, Anveshan champions transparency, quality, and sustainability. The company partners with over 5,000 farmers and micro-entrepreneurs in rural India, ensuring that every product—from A2 ghee and cold-pressed oils to superfoods and honey—is crafted using traditional methods. Each item undergoes stringent quality checks in Anveshan’s certified in-house labs. To further build trust, consumers can scan QR codes on products to trace their journey from farm to fork. In its quest to revolutionize the food industry, Anveshan secured ₹3.67 crore in seed funding from DSG Consumer Partners, Titan Capital, and Avaana Capital, with support from industry stalwarts like boAt and Beardo founders. These funds will enhance R&D, strengthen manufacturing, and establish in-house labs to maintain superior quality standards. Since its inception, Anveshan has witnessed 2x growth, generating ₹34 crore in revenue in FY23. The brand has expanded its reach via its online platform, quick-commerce channels, and major retail chains like Nature’s Basket, Nilgiri’s, and Modern Bazaar across Delhi NCR, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Anveshan envisions a future where consumers embrace clean eating while directly supporting Indian farmers. The brand aims to expand its product range, enter global markets, and implement green operations by 2025. Through strategic collaborations and awareness campaigns, Anveshan is set to make natural, minimally processed foods the norm, not the exception. Aayushi and her team’s relentless pursuit of quality and authenticity is not just transforming diets—it’s empowering rural communities, fostering sustainability, and preserving India’s rich food heritage. Anveshan is not just a brand; it’s a movement towards healthier living and a stronger rural economy.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #organic #farmfresh

Dreamfly Innovations a Bengaluru-based startup founded by Kajal Shah and Dr. Saurabh Markandeya has secured $1.4 million (INR 12 crore) in seed funding from Avaana Capital, Sunicon Ventures, and other investors. As India emerges as a global drone hub, this investment supports the development of sustainable, fire-resistant, high-performance batteries for drones, aviation, and aerospace. Kajal, an IIT Bombay graduate, and Saurabh, an IISc alumnus, launched Dreamfly Innovations in 2022 to address India’s biggest drone industry challenge: battery reliability and performance. With over a decade of experience and two patents filed, their next-generation battery solutions enhance endurance, safety, and sustainability. India’s drone market, projected to reach $4.2 billion by 2025 and $23 billion by 2030, relies heavily on imports due to a lack of domestic component manufacturing. Dreamfly is changing this with innovations like fire-resistant thermal batteries, graphene-powered drone batteries, and sub-zero temperature solutions for high-altitude drones. Their thermal case design reduces operating temperatures by 20°C, improving safety and battery life, while their lightweight cell stack enhances electrical efficiency. Dreamfly already collaborates with leading aerospace and defense players, including Tata Advanced Systems, Larsen & Toubro, General Aeronautics, and Neosky India. With the Indian government pushing for local battery manufacturing through policy incentives, Dreamfly is well-positioned to drive technological self-reliance. Swapna Gupta, Partner at Avaana Capital Capital, highlighted Dreamfly’s critical role in electrification and battery safety, reinforcing India’s standing as a global technology leader. The new funding will help Dreamfly scale production, expand its team, and accelerate R&D in fire-resistant battery solutions for aerospace. More than just a battery company, Dreamfly Innovations is powering the future of drone technology with safer, more efficient, and longer-lasting energy solutions.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #batterytech #drone #technology

As mothers, Nikita Soni and Mansi faced the same challenge many parents do—keeping their little ones engaged without screens while ensuring they learn through play. What began as a personal quest to create fun, hands-on educational activities for their children soon evolved into Little Minds at Work revolutionary brand that has now touched over 80,000 families across India. In 2021, armed with passion, firsthand parenting experience, and a deep understanding of early childhood development, Nikita and Mansi set out to fill a critical gap in the Indian market. They wanted to make learning fun, engaging, and screen-free, offering tools that spark curiosity and ignite a lifelong love for education. Their journey began with a simple yet powerful idea: activity binders designed to develop sensory and motor skills while keeping children entertained. Each binder and worksheet was meticulously crafted, rigorously tested by their own kids, and refined through real-world interactions. As more parents discovered the magic of play-based learning, demand soared, and Little Minds at Work rapidly grew into a trusted name in early education. Building a business while raising children was no easy feat. There were countless sleepless nights, endless brainstorming sessions, and moments of doubt. But what kept them going was the joy on children’s faces as they explored, played, and learned. Their unwavering belief in quality, research-backed learning tools propelled them forward, making Little Minds at Work a household name. With a range of interactive worksheets, activity binders, and early learning resources designed for children aged 0-7 years, Little Minds at Work has made education an exciting adventure. Whether it’s learning numbers, letters, or shapes, their thoughtfully designed products cater to every stage of a child’s development. Their vision? To redefine early education and ensure that every child has access to fun, engaging, and high-quality learning experiences. Parents across India have embraced Little Minds at Work as the go-to brand for screen-free learning. If you’re looking for educational tools that make learning joyful, explore their collection and become part of a growing community that believes in learning through play. Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfunder #startup #edtech #technology

At Pinq Polka, we believe every woman deserves to feel confident, comfortable, and empowered—every single day. Founded by social entrepreneur and single mother Manveen Ssharma PINQ Polka has transformed from a simple idea into a thriving premium hygiene and lifestyle brand catering to women across India, the UAE, and soon the US. PINQ Polka started as a mission to make "Those Days" easier for Women-on-the-Go but has since evolved into a comprehensive brand offering a diverse range of intimate hygiene and lifestyle products. With a focus on quality, comfort, and innovation, the brand provides essentials such as: - Sanitary pads (Regular to XXXL) - Pantyliners & menstrual cups - Breast cups, nipple covers & breast tapes - Sweat pads & disposable urinary funnels - Fashion panties & camel toe concealers These thoughtfully designed products cater to the real needs of modern women, ensuring they feel confident in every aspect of their lives. PINQ Polka has rapidly expanded, growing from 50,000 to 3 lakh customers while increasing its workforce from 10 to 50 employees. The brand’s revenue skyrocketed from ₹2 crore to ₹12 crore in just a few years, reflecting the rising demand for high-quality, innovative personal care solutions. PINQ Polka gained national recognition when it was featured on Shark Tank India Season 4, Episode 30. With an initial ask of ₹1 crore for 2.5% equity at a ₹40 crore valuation, the brand impressed the panel of sharks—including Kunal Bahl, Peyush Bansal, Anupam Mittal, Namita Thapar, and Vineeta Singh—who offered valuable insights to help scale the business further. Beyond products, PINQ Polka is fostering a movement of self-love and empowerment through its “I O Me” campaign. This unapologetic anthem encourages women to break free from societal expectations and embrace their individuality. The tagline “Own Your Vibe” amplifies the brand’s core message—empowering women to live authentically and confidently. PINQ Polka is committed to social responsibility, curating hygiene necessity kits for underprivileged women and running awareness programs on menstrual hygiene. For every product purchased online, a sanitary pad is donated to a woman in need, ensuring that empowerment extends beyond consumers to communities at large. With innovation at its core, PINQ Polka is reshaping the intimate wellness industry. By prioritizing comfort, inclusivity, and self-expression, the brand is not just offering products—it’s creating a movement where every woman feels seen, supported, and celebrated. From a single mother’s vision to a multi-crore business, PINQ Polka is redefining women’s hygiene and lifestyle essentials—one confident woman at a time.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #womenhygine #sanitary

When Isha Jhawar stepped onto the Shark Tank India 4 stage, she wasn’t just pitching a business; she was sharing a mission—one born from her own struggles with health and food addiction. With unwavering confidence, she introduced herself as the “Chief Everything Officer” of REPEAT GUD a brand committed to revolutionizing condiments with healthier alternatives. Her bold declaration set the tone: “Sir, we will make Repeat Gud the ‘Veeba of healthy sauces.’”But what truly captivated the sharks was the story behind it. Isha’s journey began at the age of 12, when a sudden weight gain of 15 kg in just two months and a haemoglobin drop to 6 led to a diagnosis of PCOD. Her parents panicked, banning all junk food, packaged items, and every bit of convenience food. But as a self-proclaimed die-hard foodie, this was nothing short of a nightmare. Fast forward a few years—moving away for college brought newfound freedom, and with it, an addiction to packaged food. “It made hostel food bearable,” she admitted. But soon, she found herself 10 kg heavier and facing worsening health issues. Returning home in 2019, her mother once again imposed strict food restrictions, sparking constant battles. Realizing that healthier alternatives were non-existent, Isha had an idea: What if I made my own? Her quest for guilt-free, delicious mayo led her to the kitchen. Armed with determination and a touch of rebellion, she experimented relentlessly. Batch after batch failed—the texture was off, the taste wasn’t quite right. But after 172 tries, she finally cracked it. A creamy, cashew-milk-based vegan mayo that tasted just as indulgent as its unhealthy counterparts—minus the guilt, preservatives, and processed ingredients. With a clear vision, Repeat Gud was born—a brand committed to delicious yet nutritious sauces, loved by kids and approved by moms. When she stepped into the Shark Tank, she wasn’t just selling a product; she was selling a movement. She sought ₹50 lakh for 10% equity, believing in the brand’s potential. Anupam Mittal, intrigued by her passion and sharp business acumen, made a counteroffer: ₹50 lakh for 10% equity, contingent on Repeat Gud achieving a ₹7 lakh monthly revenue run rate by March 25. If she succeeded, he would double his investment, adding another ₹50 lakh for 10% equity. At Repeat Gud, the mission is clear: to redefine packaged food. Healthy eating shouldn’t feel like a compromise—it should be delicious, enjoyable, and guilt-free. With every jar of sauce they create, they’re challenging the industry’s norms, proving that flavor and nutrition can coexist. As Isha scales her brand from kitchen experiments to supermarket shelves, she stands as an inspiration—proof that one person’s problem can spark a revolution. Repeat Gud isn’t just a brand; it’s a movement towards a healthier, happier future.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #healthtech #organic #sharktank

In 2020, Bollywood actress and animal activist Chahatt Khanna embarked on a journey that blended fashion with compassion. Driven by a vision to make premium quality, affordable fashion accessible to all, she founded Ammarzo Industries Pvt. Ltd. an online women's clothing brand. But Ammarzo was never just about style—it was about creating fashion with a soul. From the outset, Chahatt ensured that Ammarzo stood apart—not just for its designs but for its social and environmental impact. A portion of the brand’s proceeds directly supports animal welfare,reinforcing her deep-rooted commitment to making the world a kinder place. As an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and artist, she sought to create a brand that didn't just dress women—it empowered them. In 2021, Rohan Gandotra joined as co-founder, bringing his sharp business acumen and deep passion for conscious fashion to Ammarzo. With a strong background in operations, research, and finance, Rohan helped shape the company’s future, ensuring that sustainability and innovation remained at its core. Beyond fashion, Rohan is an advocate for futuristic technology, actively involved in crypto, NFTs, and the Metaverse. His expertise in blending technology with fashion has positioned Ammarzo as a forward-thinking brand, seamlessly integrating style with digital advancements. Ammarzo is more than just a clothing brand—it’s a movement. With an eye on the latest trends and a heart set on sustainability, the brand offers a diverse range of women’s fashion, from denim jackets and winter wear to timeless wardrobe essentials. What sets Ammarzo apart is its seamless blend of affordability, high-quality craftsmanship, and conscious fashion choices. Shopping at Ammarzo.com isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling good, knowing that each purchase contributes to a larger purpose. Chahatt Khanna’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to passion, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership. Her ability to merge creativity with conscious business practices has earned her numerous accolades, including Entrepreneur of the Year and Best Conscious Fashion Brand. Through Ammarzo, she continues to inspire, uplift, and empower—proving that fashion isn’t just about what you wear, but how it makes a difference. In a world where trends fade, Ammarzo stands timeless—where fashion meets purpose, and style fuels change.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #fashion #retail #D2C #technology

When Prasanna Vasanadu struggled to find the right skincare products for her six-year-old son, she never imagined it would spark a multi-crore business. The Covid-19 lockdown in 2020 forced her to re-evaluate the options available for kids aged 4–16. Baby products were too mild, and adult products were too harsh—there was simply no ideal skincare solution for active kids. Frustrated, she surveyed parents across cities, from Salem to Mumbai, and found they faced the same problem. That’s when the idea struck: if a need existed, why not create the solution herself? With an engineering background and an MBA in marketing, and having married into a business family, Prasanna saw the opportunity. During her 15-day isolation with Covid, she discovered that kids’ skincare was an untapped segment in India’s ₹50,000 crore beauty and personal care market. Even capturing 10% of this rapidly growing industry meant a ₹5,000 crore market potential. With an initial ₹4 crore investment from her family, she launched VR Derma Pvt Ltd in December 2021, introducing dermatologically tested, pediatrician-approved products under the brand ‘Tikitoro.’ The product line catered to kids (4–10 years) and teens (11–16 years), ensuring they were safe and effective. Certifications from Safe Cosmetics Australia and Mascot Spin Control India further reinforced trust in her brand. Despite early success, scaling Tikitoro came with financial challenges. Prasanna invested ₹14 crores—including ₹6.5 crores in inventory—forcing her to take a ₹2 crore bank overdraft. By FY 2023-24, Tikitoro achieved ₹8.5 crore in revenue, projecting ₹17 crores for FY 2024-25. -49% EBIDTA was in FY24. For FY25(YTD until Nov2024) EBIDTA was -20%. Tikitoro achieved EBIDTA break-even in January 2025 On Shark Tank India, Prasanna sought ₹25 lakhs for 0.5% equity, valuing Tikitoro at ₹50 crores. Vineeta Singh offered ₹25 lakhs for 3% equity with a two-year funding restriction, while Namita Thapar countered with ₹25 lakhs for 1% equity and a 0.5% royalty until recoupment, contingent on hitting ₹17 crores in sales. Prasanna chose Namita’s offer, believing her mentorship would bring the discipline needed for sustainable growth. From an idea born out of necessity to a thriving brand serving over 1 lakh customers, Prasanna’s journey embodies resilience, vision, and the power of a mother’s determination to build something extraordinary.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #skincare #d2c #personalcare

In a world inundated with fleeting fashion trends and the relentless chase for the next "big thing," Niti Singhal dared to dream differently. Where others saw consumerism spiraling out of control, she saw an opportunity to spark a revolution—one that celebrated sustainability, empowerment, and a touch of enchantment. This is the story of how one woman’s vision turned into Twee In One , a brand that doesn’t just dress women—it transforms them. Niti’s journey began in the heart of the fashion capital—Milan. As an alumnus of the prestigious Istituto Marangoni, she immersed herself in the rich heritage of Italian and French fashion houses, absorbing not just the art of design but the soul behind it. But even amidst the glamour of European runways and ateliers, Niti felt a disconnect. The industry, as dazzling as it was, seemed to perpetuate a cycle of excess. Fast fashion was booming, but at what cost? Environmental degradation, overconsumption, and a growing sense of emptiness in wardrobes filled with “nothing to wear.” It was in those quiet moments of reflection, away from the glitz, that the seed for TWEE IN ONE was planted. She envisioned a brand that would not only challenge the norms of fashion but redefine them—a brand that celebrated versatility, minimalism, and sustainability without compromising on style. Returning to India, Niti took a leap of faith. With a blend of Milanese finesse and an innate understanding of the modern woman’s needs, she founded TWEE IN ONE—a name that symbolized the brand’s core philosophy: “Less is More.” At its heart, TWEE IN ONE is about reversible and convertible clothing. Imagine a dress that can be flipped for a completely new look, or an outfit that morphs from daywear to evening elegance with just a few adjustments. Niti's designs weren’t just clothes; they were solutions. They offered women the freedom to travel light, make sustainable choices, and still look effortlessly chic. But TWEE IN ONE was more than fabric and stitches. It was about empowerment—giving women confidence that they were making environmentally responsible choices while embracing their unique style. It was about enchantment—captivating them with innovative designs that felt magical in their simplicity. Niti’s innovative approach didn’t just resonate with her customers; it captivated the nation. When TWEE IN ONE made its debut on Shark Tank India, it wasn’t just a business pitch—it was a statement. Her passion, creativity, and vision for sustainable fashion caught the attention of viewers and investors alike. But perhaps one of the most heartwarming acknowledgments of her journey came from an unexpected place—the beloved dairy brand AMUL. In a special advertisement inspired by her Shark Tank appearance, AMUL celebrated Niti’s innovative spirit, cementing her status as a trailblazer in India’s fashion landscape. Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #