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As Women Entrepreneurship Day dawns on November 19, a new generation of female business leaders continues to redefine success in the global marketplace. Despite facing persistent challenges in accessing capital and breaking into traditionally male-dominated sectors, women entrepreneurs are launching businesses at unprecedented rates, with studies showing they now account for nearly 40% of business owners worldwide. Closer to home, women-owned businesses in India are a powerful economic force, generating approximately 8 million jobs according to World Bank data. While women entrepreneurs currently lead 20% of India's enterprises, as reported by NITI Aayog in 2021, these businesses are predominantly rural, small-scale, and operate informally. This percentage is expected to reach 30% by 2030, highlighting a positive trend in women's economic participation. Despite this growth, female entrepreneurs encounter significant obstacles that often confine them to the informal sector. They face persistent gender biases and limited access to essential resources, including financing, technological tools, and market intelligence. Their underrepresentation in official statistics and restricted access to government support programs underscores the need for targeted initiatives to harness their untapped potential and create a more inclusive MSME landscape. In India particularly, women entrepreneurs are driving meaningful innovation - developing scalable solutions to social challenges while building profitable, resilient enterprises. Their success is vital to unlocking India's full economic potential, making it imperative to both recognize their impact and enact policies that actively enable their growth. Ahead of this Women Entrepreneurship Day, we spoke with women entrepreneurs and leaders from multiple walks of industry to understand what it takes to create a more inclusive industry landscape, their words of wisdom, major learnings, and more. By Karan Karayi Article link - https://lnkd.in/dNpmmRJC Ahana Gautam Naiyya Saggi Nita Kapoor Richa Jaggi Kaveri Nag #WomenEntrepreneurs #BreakingBarriers #BusinessInnovation #FemaleLeadership #EmpowerWomen #Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness #DiversityInBusiness #LeadershipDevelopment #WomenEmpowerment #TeamMarksmen #MarksmenDaily #InFocus

In 1947, less than 1% of Indian businesses were owned by women. Today, that number stands at 13.5% - a quantum leap, yet still a fraction of our potential. As we celebrate India's 78th Independence Day, let's honor the remarkable journey of women entrepreneurs who've been quietly revolutionizing our economic landscape. Key Milestones: 1950s-60s: Women-run cottage industries emerge 1970s: First generation of women enter corporate world 1980s: Women's cooperatives gain momentum 1990s: Liberalization opens new avenues 2000s: Tech boom creates digital entrepreneurs 2010s: Startup India initiative boosts women-led ventures 2020s: Pandemic fuels rise of "mompreneurs" and rural innovators Today's Reality: >> Women-owned SMEs grow 35% faster on average >> 25% of tech startups have at least one woman founder >> Women entrepreneurs create 2x more jobs for other women Challenges Overcome: >> Limited access to capital → Specialized funding schemes >> Lack of networks → Rise of women-centric business associations >> Societal pressures → Changing perceptions of women in business >> Legal hurdles → Progressive policy reforms Imagine an India where women's participation in entrepreneurship matches our 48% share of the population. The economic impact would be staggering. As we step into our 79th year of independence, let's commit to: >> Mentoring aspiring women entrepreneurs >> Investing in women-led startups >> Creating family and workplace support systems >> Challenging unconscious biases What's one concrete step you'll take this year to support women entrepreneurs? Here's to the indomitable spirit of Indian women entrepreneurs - past, present, and future. May your tribes increase and prosper! #WomenEntrepreneurs #IndependenceDay #EconomicFreedom #StartupIndia

Indian women entrepreneurs are breaking barriers and redefining success! Not long ago, entrepreneurship was a male-dominated field in India. Societal norms and other reasons made it difficult for women to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Fast forward to today, here’s a snapshot of their progress: --> More than 50% of women in India believe entrepreneurship is a viable career choice. --> As per NASSCOM, women now make up ~15% of the total entrepreneurs in India. --> The number of women-led startups has grown by 90% in the last decade. So, what changed to provoke this change? ✓ Social Support: Previously, societal expectations confined women to traditional roles. Now, there is a growing acceptance and encouragement for women to innovate and lead. ✓ Access to Resources: Earlier, women had limited access to funding and mentorship. Today, various government schemes and private initiatives are bridging this gap. Eg. – Govt. schemes in Bihar reward female graduates ₹50K. ✓ Networking Opportunities: In the past, networking platforms were scarce for women. Presently, numerous women-centric networks provide robust support and collaboration opportunities. In the past, stereotypes and financial barriers held back many women from pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams. They were often underestimated and faced challenges in accessing funding. Today, government support, higher literacy rates, and greater awareness are helping women break through these barriers. Indian women entrepreneurs are not just boosting the economy. They're also inspiring others to dream big. It's time to celebrate their achievements and support their freedom to innovate and lead. Tag your role-model women entrepreneur in the spotlight below! P.S- Who is your inspiration among women in business? #womenentrepreneur #business #inspiration

I was reading about Women entrepreneurship and the challenges they face in India. Access to Finance, Cultural Barriers, Networking, and Work-Life Balance are some of the key hurdles many women entrepreneurs encounter. Despite these obstacles, India has seen a significant rise in women-led businesses in recent years. Notable women like Falguni Nayar, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Vandana Luthra, Suchi Mukherjee, and Richa Kar have paved the way with their successful ventures. They serve as mentors and inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs in India, showcasing what is possible with determination and innovation. The future of women entrepreneurship in India looks promising, supported by increased awareness, favorable policies, and a growing ecosystem. While progress is evident, ongoing efforts are essential to overcome existing challenges and foster a more inclusive environment for women in business. #WomenEntrepreneurship #India #BusinessGrowth #Inspiration

Happy Women's Day! 💫 ✨ On this special day, I want to shine a light on the incredible rise of women entrepreneurs in India. The increasing presence of women-owned businesses is driving significant economic growth and empowerment in our nation. 🇮🇳 India has witnessed a remarkable shift, with more and more women taking the entrepreneurial plunge, shattering glass ceilings, and redefining success on their own terms. From tech startups to social enterprises, women founders are disrupting industries, generating employment opportunities, and inspiring the next generation of trailblazers. 👉 Around 47 per cent of the total DPIIT recognised startups have at least one women director. 👉 From April 2018 to April 2022, there has been a 915% increase in DPIIT recognised startups with at least 1 woman director. 👉 Women entrepreneurs provide direct employment to around 22 to 27 million people 🌍 The Government of India's Startup India initiative is playing a vital role in promoting sustainable development of women entrepreneurs through specialized schemes, enabling networks, and fostering partnerships within the startup ecosystem. However, more work remains to be done to create an inclusive and supportive environment for women entrepreneurship to thrive. ✨ I am in awe of the resilience, creativity, and determination demonstrated by women entrepreneurs in India. They are not just building businesses but paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous society. On this Women's Day, let's celebrate the achievements of women entrepreneurs, but also renew our commitment to empowering them further. Together, we can create an ecosystem where every woman has the opportunity to turn her dreams into reality. 🌟 Here's to the unstoppable spirit of women entrepreneurs! 🔥 #WomensDay #WomenEntrepreneurs #StartupIndia #GirlPower #EmpoweringWomen

It’s Women’s Entrepreneurship Day, I’ve been thinking about how fortunate I’ve been. I’ve had the chance to take risks and work on my dreams. But more than that, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible women in this space who are creating something extraordinary out of nothing. Every time I meet them, I feel inspired. But when I see the other side, I feel a little heartbroken. Because not every woman gets this chance. The reality is, that only 14% of entrepreneurs in India are women. Not because we lack ideas, courage, or ambition but because the odds aren’t fair. — We’re told to “play it safe.” — We’re expected to manage everything perfectly. — And we’re constantly underestimated. But imagine how much more could be achieved if society didn’t make us fight so hard for every step forward. To every woman dreaming of starting something: Please do, because your dreams matter. 💫 PS: If you could change one thing to make the journey easier for women entrepreneurs, what would it be? #WomenEntrepreneurshipDay

As we celebrate Dussehra, a festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the growing strength of women entrepreneurs in India. Just as the triumph of Lord Rama over Ravana inspires us to overcome obstacles, the rise of female entrepreneurs showcases their relentless spirit in the face of societal challenges. In recent years, the landscape of female entrepreneurship in India has undergone a significant transformation. According to a 2022 report by NASSCOM the number of women entrepreneurs in India has increased by over 50% in the past five years. Today, women own about 14% of all businesses in India, a significant leap from previous decades . This shift is driven by various factors, including greater access to education, the rise of technology, and increasing support from government initiatives and private organizations. Key industries where women are making substantial contributions include healthcare, education, technology, and e-commerce. For instance, women-led startups like Zivame, an online lingerie store, and Nykaa, a beauty and wellness platform, have not only carved their niche but also disrupted traditional markets, demonstrating that women can lead successful enterprises that cater to diverse consumer needs. These success stories inspire countless others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Moreover, government schemes such as the Stand-Up India and Mudra Yojana are specifically designed to empower women entrepreneurs by providing financial assistance and mentorship. The increasing visibility of female leaders is also fostering a culture of support and collaboration among women in business, breaking down barriers and creating networks that nurture talent. As we acknowledge these remarkable strides, it is essential to recognize the challenges that remain. Women entrepreneurs still face obstacles such as access to funding, work-life balance, and societal biases. However, with ongoing efforts and a supportive ecosystem, the future looks promising for women entrepreneurs in India. This Dussehra, let’s celebrate not only the victories in our lives but also the inspiring journey of women entrepreneurs who are reshaping the Indian economy. Their resilience and innovation remind us that with determination, we can overcome any challenge—much like the heroes of our stories. Happy Dussehra to all! May this festive season inspire courage, strength, and the pursuit of your dreams #womeninbusiness #womenenterprenur #growth #happydussehra

Economic safety is the bedrock for women's entrepreneurship. When women feel secure financially and socially, they are more likely to take risks and start their own businesses. This not only empowers individuals but also drives economic growth. Women entrepreneurs are a catalyst for India's economic progress. Their innovative ideas, market understanding, and focus on social impact create jobs, boost GDP, and foster a more inclusive economy. Investing in women-led enterprises is investing in India's future. Let's create a virtuous cycle. By prioritizing economic safety, we empower women to become entrepreneurs. Their success contributes to a stronger economy, which in turn enhances economic safety for all. It's time to break barriers and unlock the full potential of women in India's business landscape. TNWOMEN is now inviting applications for MENTORSHIP. Write to hello@tnwomen.com.

As a mompreneur, I am constantly inspired by the incredible journeys of women in India who balance the demands of family and business with grace and determination. The entrepreneurial spirit among women here is thriving like never before. Women across India are breaking barriers and redefining success. By starting their own ventures, they are creating economic opportunities not only for themselves but also for their communities. This empowerment is a powerful force for positive change. Being a mother and an entrepreneur requires exceptional multitasking skills, resilience, and a supportive network. Every day, I witness myself managing the delicate balance between nurturing my family and growing my business. The growth of women entrepreneurs in India is fueled by supportive ecosystems, including family, friends, and professional networks. Mentorship, access to resources, and encouragement from the community play crucial roles in our journey. As we look to the future, the potential for women entrepreneurs in India is boundless. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and providing equal opportunities, we can further unleash the entrepreneurial potential of women across the country. To all the incredible mompreneurs and aspiring women entrepreneurs in India, your journey is a beacon of hope and inspiration. Keep shining, keep innovating, and keep making a difference! #WomenInBusiness #Mompreneurs #WomenEmpowerment #Entrepreneurship #India #Leadership #Inspiration #BigBoyToyz #QueensDriveClub