Tag: women entrepreneur

  • Payal Nambiar, Founder and Director of B-Square, on Tech Innovations, Key Achievements, and Leading as a Woman in IT

    In this exclusive interaction with StartupTalky, Ms. Payal Nambiar, Founder and Director of B-Square Solutions, shares her journey and insights into the IT industry. She explains how B-Square’s innovative solutions, like the Pothera ERP, are making a big impact in the tech world. Nambiar talks about how the company uses advanced technologies like AI and Blockchain, highlights key successes, and reflects on her experiences as a woman entrepreneur in tech. Her perspective offers a valuable look at what’s next for technology and leadership in today’s fast-paced IT world.

    StartupTalky: Can you briefly describe B-Square’s core offerings and what sets them apart in the IT industry?

    Ms. Nambiar: B-Square is a leading twenty-year-old software company that has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses across a wide range of industries. At the core of our offerings is a suite of innovative and cutting-edge IT solutions designed to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and drive digital transformation. Our product portfolio includes Pothera ERP, CRM, SCM, CMMS, Wogan Carwash Management Software, Clinic Management Software, and many more customised applications serving different verticals.

    Our flagship product Pothera ERP is the productivity powerhouse. This cutting-edge solution streamlines workflows optimizes every aspect of the business, and unlocks unparalleled levels of productivity for manufacturing, and trading in a diverse range of industries. We utilize and integrate the latest technology, such as AI and cloud computing within our software, making it scalable and efficient. Moreover, our customer-centric approach, including seamless integration, quick implementation, and continuous support, ensures that our every solution is aligned with the client’s unique needs.

    B-Square takes the time to deeply understand the unique challenges and requirements of each client, allowing them to develop tailored solutions that address their specific needs.

    Our team of highly skilled and experienced professionals combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of industry best practices, ensuring that our clients receive the most effective and efficient solutions. Whether it is developing custom software, implementing enterprise-level systems, or providing managed IT services, B-Square consistently exceeds expectations and delivers tangible results.

    StartupTalky: What inspired you to start B-Square, and how has your vision evolved over the years?

    Ms. Nambiar: B-Square was founded in 2001 on the belief that technology should empower businesses, not complicate them. When we started out, our vision was to create intuitive, user-friendly software solutions that would help small and medium-sized enterprises streamline their operations and drive growth.

    Over the years, our commitment to this vision has only grown stronger. We’ve witnessed firsthand how the right technology can transform a business, freeing up time and resources to focus on core objectives. That’s why we’ve dedicated ourselves to developing innovative products that address the real-world challenges faced by our clients.

    As B-Square has evolved, so has our understanding of the needs of the modern business landscape. We’ve expanded our suite of offerings to encompass a wide range of solutions, from cloud-based accounting tools to powerful data analytics platforms. But at the heart of it all remains our unwavering focus on creating technology that makes a tangible difference in the lives of our customers.

    Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of business software. With a talented team of developers, designers, and industry experts, we’re poised to deliver even more transformative solutions that will help our clients achieve their goals and unlock new levels of success.

    StartupTalky: How does B-Square approach innovation in its products and services?

    Ms. Nambiar: We embrace a proactive approach to innovation by continuously integrating the latest technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, and Cloud Computing. Our software is designed to offer impeccable results with adaptability, scalability, and responsiveness in accordance with the current industry requirements and daily customer usage. We offer a unique and comprehensive User Interface that adapts to customer experiences making it more user-friendly. We provide customer services based on their feedback and respective needs.

    Our approach to innovation is multifaceted and deeply rooted in our company culture. We foster an environment that encourages our talented team to think outside the box, challenge the status quo, and explore bold new ideas. We believe that innovation is not a one-time event, but a continuous process that requires a willingness to take calculated risks and learn from both successes and failures.

    One of the key pillars of our innovation strategy is our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. We closely monitor industry trends and emerging technologies, and we invest heavily in research and development to ensure that our products and services remain cutting-edge and relevant. Our team of skilled engineers and developers is constantly experimenting with new tools, frameworks, and methodologies, always seeking ways to optimize our offerings and deliver even greater value to our customers.

    But innovation at our company is not just about technology – it’s also about the way we approach problem-solving and the customer experience. We place a strong emphasis on user-centric design, gathering feedback from our customers and incorporating their insights into the development of our products. This collaborative approach allows us to create solutions that truly resonate with our target audience and address their pain points in innovative and impactful ways.


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    StartupTalky: What are some key features of the software solutions you offer, and how do they benefit businesses?

    Ms. Nambiar: We have integrated our Pothera ERP software with some of the best-in-class technologies that offer comprehensive control over operations while enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and compliance. Our Quality Management System ensures high standards and Multi-currency Support to facilitate international transactions. We have integrated Automated E-Invoicing and QR code API to streamline financial processes and reduce manual errors. Synchronization across multiple plants and companies is a value-additional feature that would ease the coordination processes between various units seamlessly.

    Some minute features like Sub Contracting and UDF are added to enable customization, while E-mail and WhatsApp integrations enhance communication. To enhance security, we have added powerful and granular authorization processes that provide secure access and our fully paperless system promotes sustainability. These features make Pothera ERP a versatile and robust solution for businesses.

    Our software solutions are designed to revolutionize the way businesses operate. With a suite of powerful features, we empower our clients to streamline their workflows, boost productivity, and drive tangible results.

    With our preconfigured enterprise application, one can rapidly deploy a powerful system that connects multiple plants and companies across geographies, seamlessly handling multi-currency transactions and supporting multiple companies with different charts of accounts.

    One of the key benefits of our software is its fully paperless system with multi-level approvals, ensuring efficient and secure workflows. Our configurable notifications and alerts via email keep the users informed, while the ability to attach documents in various formats simplifies collaboration and record-keeping.

    Customization is at the heart of our solutions, with user-defined fields that can be tailored to specific business requirements. Flexibility and scalability are also hallmarks of our offerings, allowing users to easily adapt to changing business scenarios and support the entire enterprise.

    Integrated business intelligence tools provide clients with powerful insights, empowering them to make data-driven decisions that propel their business forward. Our cloud-based platform offers the convenience of any-time, anywhere access, while features like e-invoicing and a comprehensive dashboard keep entrepreneur in control of their operations.

    But we don’t stop there. Our software also boasts robust data management capabilities, allowing users to centralize and contextualize their information for deeper insights. Intuitive dashboards and reporting tools provide real-time visibility into key performance indicators, empowering customers to make informed, data-driven decisions.

    Underpinning it all is our commitment to security and compliance. We understand the importance of safeguarding sensitive data, which is why our solutions are built with the highest standards of encryption and access control in mind. 

    Ultimately, our solutions suite is more than just a tool – it’s a strategic partner that can help businesses thrive in today’s competitive landscape. 

    StartupTalky: What tools and technologies do you use to manage and enhance operations?

    Ms. Nambiar: At B-Square we leverage advanced technologies, including cloud computing, AI, and Blockchain to enhance operations. With our Cloud-Based infrastructure, we offer scalability, data accessibility, and seamless integration. Our products are powered by AI to offer real-time analytics to optimize processes and enhance decision-making. We have enhanced security and trustworthiness in operations through Blockchain technology.

    At B-Square, we leverage a powerful suite of advanced technologies to enhance and streamline our operations. Chief among these is our robust cloud-based infrastructure, which provides unparalleled scalability, data accessibility, and seamless integration across our entire ecosystem.

    Underpinning our cloud platform is the transformative power of artificial intelligence. Our products and services are imbued with AI-driven capabilities that deliver real-time analytics, enabling us to optimize processes and empower data-driven decision-making like never before.

    But we don’t stop there. To fortify the security and trustworthiness that are the bedrock of our operations, we have also integrated cutting-edge blockchain technology. This innovative solution safeguards the integrity of our data and transactions, giving our clients the confidence they need to focus on growth.

    By harnessing the full potential of cloud computing, AI, and blockchain, B-Square is redefining the standards of operational excellence. This powerful trifecta of technologies empowers us to deliver unparalleled efficiency, agility, and peace of mind to our valued customers.

    StartupTalky: How do you ensure the security and trustworthiness of your software solutions?

    Ms. Nambiar: To secure user data we have prioritized the security by incorporating blockchain security which is said to offer a modernistic and highest level of security within any website or application. Our application offers a decentralized and immutable ledger system for data protection. We keep a regular check on the security infrastructure with encryption, regular vulnerability assessments, and access controls. We continuously monitor and ensure resilience against emerging cyber threats.


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    Ms. Nambiar: The IT industry is on the cusp of a transformative era, driven by a confluence of exponential technologies. We anticipate a future where AI, machine learning, and automation will redefine business processes across sectors. The convergence of the physical and digital realms, often termed as the Internet of Things (IoT), will create unprecedented opportunities. Cybersecurity will remain paramount, as the digital landscape expands. Additionally, we foresee a surge in demand for data-driven insights and cloud-based solutions. These trends will reshape industries, create new business models, and demand a highly skilled workforce.

    The coming years will be marked by rapid advancements in emerging technologies that will reshape the landscape.

    We expect artificial intelligence and machine learning to take center stage, transforming how businesses operate and deliver value to customers. The integration of AI-powered solutions will become the norm, automating tasks, enhancing decision-making, and driving innovation across various sectors.

    Furthermore, the proliferation of the Internet of Things (IoT) will continue to gain momentum, enabling seamless connectivity and data-driven insights. Businesses that harness the power of IoT will gain a competitive edge, optimizing operations and delivering personalized experiences.

    Cybersecurity will also be a top priority, as the threat landscape evolves. Robust, multilayered security measures will be crucial to protect against sophisticated cyber attacks and safeguard sensitive data.

    We are also witnessing the rise of cloud computing and the increasing adoption of hybrid and multi-cloud strategies. Businesses will leverage the scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness of cloud infrastructure to drive digital transformation.

    As a software company, we are poised to lead the charge in these emerging trends, providing innovative solutions that empower our clients to thrive in the dynamic IT landscape of the future.

    StartupTalky: Can you share some key milestones or successes that B-Square has achieved since its inception?

    Ms. Nambiar: B-Square has been at the forefront of technological innovation since its inception. We take immense pride in our journey of delivering cutting-edge solutions. Some of our key milestones include the implementation of our Pothera ERP Solution to Tirupathi Enterprises. Recently B-Square expanded its geographical footprint into Africa where B-Square’s Pothera ERP was chosen as the preferred ERP Solutions Provider for Surya Group, a large conglomerate with diverse business interests. 

    These achievements are a testament to our team’s dedication and our commitment to staying ahead of the curve.

    Ms. Nambiar: Innovation is at the core of B-Square’s DNA. We foster a culture of curiosity and experimentation. Our team comprises a diverse group of experts who continuously research and analyze the latest technological advancements. We believe in a collaborative approach, engaging with industry leaders, attending conferences, and participating in hackathons to stay updated. This knowledge is then infused into our product development process, ensuring that our solutions are always aligned with the evolving market needs.

    StartupTalky: What motivates you to lead as a women entrepreneur in tech, and what challenges have you overcome in this role?

    Ms. Nambiar: Leading a tech company as a woman is both challenging and rewarding. I am driven by the desire to inspire and empower other women in STEM. Breaking down stereotypes and creating opportunities for women in leadership is a personal mission. While the journey has had its challenges, such as overcoming gender biases and balancing work-life commitments, I believe in the power of resilience and perseverance. I have learned to leverage my unique perspective to build a strong and inclusive team.

    StartupTalky: How do you envision the future of B-Square and its role in the IT industry in the next 5 years?

    Ms. Nambiar: B-Square has a bold vision for the future. We aim to be a leading provider of innovative technology solutions that transform businesses and society. In the next five years, we see ourselves as a key player in driving digital transformation. We will continue to invest in research and development, expand our product portfolio, and strengthen our global footprint. Our focus will be on leveraging emerging technologies to create sustainable and scalable solutions that address the evolving needs of our clients.

    StartupTalky: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start their own tech company?

    Ms. Nambiar: For aspiring entrepreneurs, I would emphasize the importance of passion, perseverance, and a strong vision. The tech industry is highly competitive, but with the right mindset, anything is achievable. Building a solid team, understanding your target market, and focusing on delivering value is crucial. Never be afraid to fail; failures often lead to valuable lessons. Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success.


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  • Resources and Training Opportunities to Help Women Entrepreneurs to Run Successful Social Enterprises

    This article has been contributed by Ms Prachi Kaushik, Founder & Director of VYOMINI Social Enterprise.

    One significant driver of economic growth that has been acknowledged is women’s entrepreneurship. They not only give society new jobs for themselves and others, but they also offer alternative approaches to organization and management. Due to their positive effects on women’s empowerment, poverty alleviation, and the financial stability of families and communities, women entrepreneurs will always play a crucial role in the advancement of the economy.

    Social enterprises—businesses that combine financial sustainability with social impact—are a growing vehicle for positive social change, with women at the forefront of this movement. Several tools and training opportunities can provide these changemakers with the capacity and skills they need to be empowered. The environment supporting female social entrepreneurs is expanding, providing a range of tools and chances for training to set them up for success.

    One of the main instruments of international labor organization is the Women’s Entrepreneurship Development Programme, which is the Gender and Entrepreneurship Together (GET) Ahead training program. By enhancing the business management abilities and critical soft skills of Women, GET Ahead seeks to close the gender gap and address some of the obstacles that women encounter when beginning and operating a business. It is different from traditional business training materials in that it emphasizes gender-based entrepreneurial skills, includes coaching and mentoring, and is specifically designed to meet the needs of low-literate women.

    Training and Support for Entrepreneurship (ENTERPRISES)
    Networking Events and Conferences
    Governmental Initiatives and Programs
    Local Small Business Development Centers
    Online Tools and Resources
    Startup India

    Training and Support for Entrepreneurship (ENTERPRISES)

    The ILO provides focused programs and networks of support to give female entrepreneurs the tools they need to overcome obstacles and succeed. Their initiatives are centered around empowerment and capacity building, with the goal of improving both individual and corporate performance.

    For women who have big dreams but little money, Bharathiya Mahila Bank was founded. It offers loans to female entrepreneurs wishing to start manufacturing businesses up to INR 20 crores. If the amount of the loan you are requesting is less than one crore, collateral is not needed. The loan program that was introduced in 2017 remains in place despite the Bharatiya Mahila Bank’s merger with the State Bank of India. A lot of organizations pair up would-be business owners with seasoned mentors who can share their knowledge, give priceless counsel, and encourage them along the way. This individualized coaching can be very helpful in overcoming obstacles and achieving success.

    The ILO-WED Program Creates Comprehensive Interventions To Support Women Entrepreneurs In Three Crucial Domains

    1. Creating an Environment That Encourages Women to Start Their Own Businesses: By identifying and fostering the conditions that facilitate women entrepreneurs’ enhanced access to opportunities and resources, ILO-WED aims to alleviate some of the systemic barriers that they face.

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    1. Financial and Business Development Services: ILO-WED supports service providers in adopting more sustainable business models while working to make service provisions for entrepreneurs more relevant, accessible, and gender-sensitive for women clients.
    2. Assistance for Women Entrepreneurs Following Training: ILO-WED makes it easier to provide specialized training and post-training programs that enhance women’s financial, interpersonal, and business management abilities. Over the years, ILO has developed and tested these trainings, tailoring them to the unique circumstances of each country while establishing and sustaining a network of devoted trainers.

    Networking Events and Conferences

    Learning from successful businesswomen, establishing contacts, and drawing inspiration can all be obtained by attending networking events and conferences geared toward women in business. There are networking and educational opportunities at events like Women’s Entrepreneurship Day.

    Governmental Initiatives and Programs

    Many governments have initiatives and programs designed especially to help women who start their own businesses. These initiatives could include mentorship programs, training courses, and funding opportunities. Online Communities and Forums: Accessing helpful resources, guidance, and support for female entrepreneurs can be gained by participating in online programs.

    Local Small Business Development Centers

    Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are located in many communities and provide resources, counseling, and training for entrepreneurs at no cost or at cheaper rates. These organizations frequently host seminars and workshops designed especially for female business owners.

    Online Tools and Resources

    Women entrepreneurs can find a wealth of online tools and resources to assist them in starting and expanding their businesses in a variety of ways. These consist of marketing manuals, financial calculators, and templates for business plans.

    Startup India

    This government program gives women entrepreneurs in India a forum and essential assistance in areas like funding, mentoring, and skill development. It also offers workshops and other resources.

    Number of Reported Jobs within Startup India Initiative from 2016 to 2022
    Number of Reported Jobs within Startup India Initiative from 2016 to 2022

    For women entrepreneurs, training opportunities and resources are essential. Men have traditionally had more access to networks and resources, which has led to an unequal playing field in the business sector. By giving women business owners the instruments and information required to compete successfully, resources and training aid in closing this gap. A broad range of skills is necessary for launching and operating a successful business.

    Training programs can boost the chances of success for female entrepreneurs by providing them with essential skills in areas like financial management, marketing, business planning, and leadership. women entrepreneurs frequently encounter distinct obstacles, including managing familial responsibilities, obtaining capital, and surmounting gender prejudice. Resources and training can help women overcome these obstacles by offering them specialized support, advocacy, and coping mechanisms.

    All things considered, training programs and resources are vital to the empowerment of female entrepreneurs because they create equal opportunities, give them the tools they need to succeed, boost their self-esteem, help them make significant connections, and solve particular problems they may encounter. Consequently, this fosters an environment in a

    business that is more equitable and inclusive, enabling women to flourish and share their ideas and talents with the world.


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  • Women Entrepreneurs’ Vision for the Future of Business and Their Strategic Role in Driving Change

    With International Women’s Day fast approaching, it’s a great time to pause and consider the ever-changing role of women in business. Female entrepreneurs are doing more than leaving a mark; they’re also defining the face of entrepreneurship that lies ahead.  In tune with this, we have had the privilege of connecting with some amazing women entrepreneurs who come from different backgrounds and asking them about how they see entrepreneurship changing in the future for women and what role they plan to play in that change.

    Being able to overcome hurdles as well as make everybody feel like part of a team is what these women do best; they are transforming lives in ways that really matter. So now, without much delay, let us learn from their advice and take lessons from their experience.

    Ms. Aanchal Saini, CEO , Flyrobe
    Ms Monica Malhotra Kandhari, Managing Director, AASOKA & MBD Group
    Ms. Dishi Somani, founder of DishiS Designer Jewellery
    Nikky Gupta, Founder & CEO, Teamwork Communications Group
    Ms. Avneet Bhatia, CEO and Founder, NatureFit
    Aanandita Vaghani, Founder and Mental Health Counsellor, UnFix your Feelings
    Dr.Chytra V Anand, Founder, SkinQ
    Divya Yachamaneni, CEO, Naandiwater

    Ms. Aanchal Saini, CEO , Flyrobe

    Ms. Aanchal Saini, CEO , Flyrobe
    Ms. Aanchal Saini, CEO , Flyrobe

    As we mark International Women’s Day, I envision a future where women’s
    entrepreneurial dreams soar higher than ever before. At Flyrobe, we’re on a mission to be more than just a business; we’re a community that uplifts and supports women on their journey to success. From providing mentorship to creating opportunities, we’re dedicated to ensuring every woman feels empowered to turn her ideas into reality. Together, let’s rewrite the narrative and build a world where every woman’s entrepreneurial spirit shines bright.

    Ms Monica Malhotra Kandhari, Managing Director, AASOKA & MBD Group

    Ms Monica Malhotra Kandhari, Managing Director, AASOKA & MBD Group
    Ms Monica Malhotra Kandhari, Managing Director, AASOKA & MBD Group

    As the landscape of entrepreneurship evolves, the future holds immense promise for women, offering abundant opportunities for empowerment and innovation. With their distinct viewpoints and unrealized potential, women are positioned to reinvent the business environment as cultural standards change and diversity becomes more important. I see a world at the vanguard of this revolution, one in which obstacles are removed and opportunity abounds for all would-be female
    entrepreneurs
    .

    In my view, it is essential to cultivate an environment where women are not just participants but leaders, driving forward progress and innovation, particularly as we celebrate Women’s Day. I commit to promoting diversity in entrepreneurship, elevating voices, shattering stereotypes, and clearing the path for a day when every woman’s entrepreneurial ambitions may come true, unhindered by constraints. MBD Group has trained around 1 million people with the majority being
    females. Today’s skilled girls are the entrepreneurs of tomorrow. We are working on skilling women in various states of the country and helping them acquire jobs and earn their livelihood. We actively promote the education of the girl child and have interacted with parents both at the block level and the district level (Punjab, HR, HP, RJ and Odisha) and encouraged them to send their daughters to
    schools as well as to skill training centres.


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    Ms. Dishi Somani, founder of DishiS Designer Jewellery

    Ms. Dishi Somani, founder of DishiS Designer Jewellery
    Ms. Dishi Somani, founder of DishiS Designer Jewellery

    In today’s chaotic world, women stand as the pillar of building a business that not only solves real-world problems but also serves as engines for empowerment and innovation.

    According to a Forbes survey, 13.76% of Indian entrepreneurs are women. We at Dishi, strategically position ourselves as key contributors by crafting magnificent jewellery and narratives that challenge old beliefs. Our mission extends beyond jewellery by fostering a collaborative community and providing opportunities for women like us. In an era where women-led businesses transcend boundaries, we are committed to redefining success and leaving an indelible mark on this transformative journey.

    Nikky Gupta, Founder & CEO, Teamwork Communications Group

    Nikky Gupta, Founder & CEO, Teamwork Communications Group
    Nikky Gupta, Founder & CEO, Teamwork Communications Group

    Despite the prevailing societal preference in small towns for more traditional and financially rewarding professions such as medicine, law, and engineering, contemporary women opt to follow their passions and abilities, embarking on entrepreneurial journeys. The positive repercussions of women’s achievements directly bolster their local economies and have a far-reaching impact on their communities. When women entrepreneurs prosper, they are more inclined to reinvest in their families and neighbourhoods, prioritizing areas such as education, nutrition, well-being, and children’s health. Therefore, the role of entrepreneurship in empowering women is poised to significantly influence economic development by generating more employment opportunities for women, advancing gender equality, and unleashing substantial potential for growth, innovation, and positive societal change.

    Recognizing the importance of nurturing young talent within our organization as a fundamental responsibility, I am dedicated to cultivating promising individuals into valuable professionals. With a steadfast commitment to diversity and inclusion, I am deeply passionate about mentoring young women in the industry, drawing from my own experiences of starting from scratch as a woman in the field. This endeavor underscores my dedication to fostering the advancement of women in the industry. We actively challenge conventional industry standards by championing diversity and gender inclusivity within our organization.

    As a woman, I am devoted to dismantling barriers for fellow women, assisting them in overcoming marginalization and breaking through the glass ceiling. I ensure that women are provided with the opportunities essential for their success and professional growth. We endorse flexible work arrangements as needed and encourage individuals, particularly women with career gaps, to join our team. Thus, I ensure that women are equipped with the necessary opportunities to thrive while aiding them in evolving into fully-fledged professionals.

    Ms. Avneet Bhatia, CEO and Founder, NatureFit

    Ms. Avneet Bhatia, CEO and Founder, NatureFit
    Ms. Avneet Bhatia, CEO and Founder, NatureFit

    In the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship for women, a promising shift is underway. The ecosystem is becoming increasingly conducive to women entrepreneurs, and notable female leaders are making significant strides across diverse industries. Particularly in traditionally male-dominated domains like Auto, Solar, or EV, we are witnessing a remarkable transformation, with more women
    emerging as leaders. This shift signals a more inclusive future. For instance, in my role focused on creating AYUSH alternatives for healthcare, I aim to pave the way for others to embrace unconventional paths. By navigating uncharted territories, my goal is to inspire women to boldly pursue entrepreneurship and contribute to reshaping the narrative of success.

    Aanandita Vaghani, Founder and Mental Health Counsellor, UnFix your Feelings

    Aanandita Vaghani, Founder and Mental Health Counsellor, UnFix your Feelings
    Aanandita Vaghani, Founder and Mental Health Counsellor, UnFix your Feelings

    Today, over 20% of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India are owned by women, accounting for 23.3% of the total labor force. As a mental health counsellor, I do take one woman pro-bono client every six months to help foster self-esteem to achieve career growth. I believe in helping women alleviate their anxiety, and deal with tough gender roles in the workplace. I hope to participate in the way that women are empowered enough to continue changing this landscape.

    Dr.Chytra V Anand, Founder, SkinQ

    Dr.Chytra V Anand, Founder, SkinQ
    Dr.Chytra V Anand, Founder, SkinQ

    The landscape of entrepreneurship is evolving rapidly, with women playing a pivotal role in this transformation. The future for women entrepreneurs is bright, with endless possibilities for innovation and leadership. However, there is still much to be done to ensure that women have equal opportunities to succeed in the entrepreneurial world.

    As a woman entrepreneur, I am committed to contributing to this change by advocating for policies that support women in business, creating mentorship programs, and fostering a culture of inclusivity. It is essential to address the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, such as access to funding, networking opportunities, and balancing work-life commitments.

    Divya Yachamaneni, CEO, Naandiwater

    Divya yachamaneni, CEO, Naandiwater
    Divya yachamaneni, CEO, Naandiwater

    Indian women have always been exceptionally resourceful, be it through self help groups, microfinance, etc., despite facing so many barriers. Now that the education levels of women are rising, social norms are shifting slowly, and government initiatives are providing a much-needed boost for women entrepreneurs in India, the prospects are better than ever. Enough research is out that shows how women founded businesses tend to yield higher revenue, yet not enough is being done to address the obstacles. Starting with better access to funding. Though there is a growing crop of investors focusing on women entrepreneurs, that’s nearly not enough. Secondly, we need to work towards strengthening the ecosystem. There’s still way too much resting on a woman’s shoulder to manage – be it caregiving duties or home. Promoting women’s entrepreneurship and employment is in our collective interest, and one way of doing it for me is to mentor women looking to start their businesses and invest in women- owned businesses. It includes showing them how to navigate the market and sharing a lesson or two from my own journey along the way.


    Utilizing Digital Marketing: Insights from Woman Entrepreneurs
    Explore practical tips and experiences from inspiring women entrepreneurs on how they leverage digital marketing to grow their businesses and establish their brand presence.


  • Utilising Digital Marketing: Insights from Women Entrepreneurs

    Digital marketing has now become very important for business growth—it’s not just an option anymore, but a necessity for success. For women entrepreneurs, it’s an empowering avenue to make their mark in competitive markets. In celebration of International Women’s Day, we reached out to some inspiring women entrepreneurs to learn how they utilize the power of digital marketing.

    Now, let’s explore their insights. Join us as we uncover their practical tips and experiences, offering heartfelt guidance to fellow women entrepreneurs on their journey to online success.

    Neha Bahl, Founder/Media & Brand Communication Expert, Qube Communication
    Avani Jaiswal Marla, Co-Founder, RMT
    Sangeeta Sharma, Senior Marketing Head, Mrig Sight Media
    Saloni Anand, Co-Founder, Traya
    Priyanka Salot, Co-founder, The Sleep Company
    Ayushi G, Founder of Provoqe Media LLP
    Rinku Suchanti, Co-founder, FIKAA
    Nidhi Singh, Co-Founder Samosa Singh
    Shambhavi Singh, Director at Royal Heritage Haveli
    Arpita Katyal, CEO, Roperro

    Neha Bahl, Founder/Media & Brand Communication Expert, Qube Communication

    Neha Bahl, Founder/Media & Brand Communication Expert, Qube Communication
    Neha Bahl, Founder/Media & Brand Communication Expert, Qube Communication

    Utilizing the power of digital marketing can be a powerful tool for women entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and establish their brand presence. Like, you can Leverage Social Media Platforms, Build a Community or host live Q&A sessions, Offer Value-Driven Content, Network, and Collaborate. And most importantly whatever you do, be consistent and stay authentic with your content.

    Avani Jaiswal Marla, Co-Founder, RMT

    Avani Jaiswal Marla, Co-Founder, RMT
    Avani Jaiswal Marla, Co-Founder, RMT

    With the advent of the digital age, where consumers are continuously connected through mobile, internet, and social media, it’s important to engage with them where they are. Women innately have strong communication skills, making us proficient at navigating digital platforms for effective brand interaction. Global Entrepreneurship Monitor report says, women now constitute 41% of the global entrepreneurial workforce, a noteworthy increase largely attributed to the digital revolution. By strategically employing social media and other digital channels, we can not only reach our target audience but also create significant connections that propel business growth.


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    Sangeeta Sharma, Senior Marketing Head, Mrig Sight Media

    Sangeeta Sharma, Senior Marketing Head, Mrig Sight Media
    Sangeeta Sharma, Senior Marketing Head, Mrig Sight Media

    Usage of digital marketing effectively involves more than just pushing goods and services—it also involves developing an engaging story for your target audience. Accept your individual viewpoint and life experiences to build genuine relationships. Use social media channels to interact with your community and spread the word about your message. To efficiently contact potential customers, use tailored advertising. Don’t be scared to try out various tactics and be flexible to adjust to evolving trends. As a female entrepreneur in the digital era, you may increase the volume of your voice, broaden your audience, and have a big influence by utilizing digital marketing.

    Saloni Anand, Co-Founder, Traya

    Saloni Anand, Co-Founder, Traya
    Saloni Anand, Co-Founder, Traya

    In today’s world, being online isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity for any business to thrive. Digital marketing is the key, using platforms like social media, emails, and SEO to connect with your audience. But for women entrepreneurs, it’s more than just marketing—it’s about being authentic and building a brand that people trust and relate to. Crafting content that speaks to your audience’s needs is crucial, and using data-driven insights to guide your strategies ensures you’re hitting the mark. Videos are powerful tools for telling your story and engaging your audience. And don’t forget about building a community online—loyalty is built through connection. Collaborating with influencers and staying on top of trends keeps your brand visible and relevant. Continuous adaptation to digital trends and technologies is vital, to keep a brand competitive and relevant in the fast-evolving digital arena.

    Priyanka Salot, Co-founder, The Sleep Company

    Priyanka Salot, Co-founder, The Sleep Company
    Priyanka Salot, Co-founder, The Sleep Company

    Digital marketing is the most effective tool for every entrepreneur, whether they are just starting out or already have a successful business. The potential of digital marketing can be maximised by communicating the brand vision to the audience, providing captivating content, and effectively harnessing social media to engage with the audience. Digital marketing is a powerful tool for women entrepreneurs to talk about their journey and create visibility for their brand. It helps in creating a community and helping each other grow thereby solving the challenges of the society.

    Ayushi G, Founder of Provoqe Media LLP

    Ayushi G, Founder of Provoqe Media LLP
    Ayushi G, Founder of Provoqe Media LLP

    In the vast landscape of possibilities, digital marketing can be a powerful ally, rather than just a tool. You can use it to amplify your voice, transcend boundaries, and shape your narrative. The digital space is one where innovation knows no gender, so you can break free from constraints and carve your niche. By harnessing the boundless power of digital marketing, you can transcend boundaries and shape your success. Your online presence is not just a showcase; it’s a dynamic force that can shape your future. You can embrace the digital realm with resilience and creativity, breaking the chains of traditional norms.

    Social media, content strategies, and data analytics are your tools of empowerment in the virtual world. Your voice knows no limits, and your brand can resonate globally. By navigating the algorithms, you can grab the moment and let your story unfold online. Digital marketing is not just a strategy; it’s your weapon to revolutionize and lead.

    Rinku Suchanti, Co-founder, FIKAA

    Rinku Suchanti, Co-founder, FIKAA
    Rinku Suchanti, Co-founder, FIKAA

    Our target audience is primarily women between the ages of 20 and 45. This group is greatly influenced by social media and is probably the savviest consumer of digital marketing. Most of their shopping, entertainment, and social contact is on digital platforms. Therefore, while marketing our women-centric investment app – FIKAA, we were logically drawn to claim the digital space. As a woman entrepreneur, albeit not from the same age bracket, I understood the appeal of digital marketing as its consumption is literally in your hand – your mobile device.

    FIKAA—the app—is geared to empower women to be financially literate and financially independent. We are spreading awareness exclusively through Digital Marketing.

    Nidhi Singh, Co-Founder Samosa Singh

    Nidhi Singh, Co-Founder Samosa Singh
    Nidhi Singh, Co-Founder Samosa Singh

    As a woman entrepreneur, leveraging the possibilities of digital marketing means more than just reaching a broader audience; it also entails gathering meaningful insights to influence strategic decisions. We can efficiently change our marketing strategy, optimize investments, and maximize revenues by delving into analytics tools and evaluating various variables. Digital platforms offer unparalleled visibility and interaction across several channels, allowing us to expand our brand presence and influence. With few resources, digital marketing becomes a powerful tool for growth and success.

    Shambhavi Singh, Director at Royal Heritage Haveli

    Shambhavi Singh, Director at Royal Heritage Haveli
    Shambhavi Singh, Director at Royal Heritage Haveli

    Digital Marketing empowers us to spread our message and purpose to an audience as wide as can be, spread to the world in places you would have never dreamed of! Maintaining active profiles on social media, for your brand, and yourself, if you can juggle both, helps cultivate a following that is not just a number but a community of people across the globe, who resonate with your brand philosophy. 

    As a chef, I could share recipes and food experiments online, and even conduct interactive cooking classes, I have taken a few myself.`

    It also always helps to have feedback posted online, this goes a long way in building legitimacy for your brand, which brings potential clients to approach you. A regularly updated website keeps you on trend and clients have easy access to information, which helps convert orders faster.

    Arpita Katyal, CEO, Roperro

    Arpita Katyal, CEO, Roperro
    Arpita Katyal, CEO, Roperro

    Digital marketing is like a magic wand for entrepreneurs. It’s a way to make your business shine brighter and reach more people. By using social media, emails, and creating fun content, you can tell your story and connect with more people. Digital marketing allowed us to reach out to the world beyond boundaries and helped us to explore unchartered territories. You can directly interact with your customers and understand their aspirations from your product- all on a real-time basis. This helps us as new businesses to make course corrections whenever needed.


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  • How Mentorship Empowers Women Entrepreneurs: Strategies for Success and Growth

    This article has been contributed by Lakshmi Prasanna, Co-Founder, of Leadership Mavericks.

    After having worked in a corporate environment for some of the biggest names in executive hiring, there was so much that I was uncertain about when I decided to start off on my own. I was confident of my tradecraft and my network but I was fairly unsure about how to run a business. My partner and I were in complete agreement that we needed to be mentored but we struggled to find opportunities for formal mentorship.

    Entrepreneurship more than any other profession really benefits from mentorship because there’s no formula for success. An entrepreneur succeeds after taking several calculated risks, making mistakes, failing and innovating to move forward. Their success rate can really improve if they have the guidance of a mentor.

    For women entrepreneurs, this search is even harder. Why does gender matter, one may wonder? It comes down to a number of factors, our social conditioning, the power equations at play in any working environment, the circles we move in or we don’t belong to, the opportunities we hear of and our access to resources. It also comes down to how we, as entrepreneurs, perceive mentorship and how mentors perceive their own role in this entire equation. Are we scared of being told that our ideas are terrible? On the flipside, Is it fair for a mentor to brutally criticize someone’s hard work in the hope that it will motivate them to try harder?

    The challenges faced by a woman entrepreneur are different. They aren’t bigger or lesser than the challenges before all entrepreneurs but understanding how they are different can help make mentoring women more contextual and impactful. Here are some of the ways that women can take charge of their own entrepreneurship journey.

    The Different Paths to Mentorship
    Reaching Out for Help
    The Journey Never Ends

    The Different Paths to Mentorship

    Not every entrepreneur is going to take the same approach to mentorship. While some may opt for a more structured mentorship, comprising a formal mentoring and self-learning relationship, others seek their mentors from industries outside their ambit of work. Even a friend or a relative with a successful sales career could be a potential mentor. Every entrepreneur has different needs and a one-size-fits-all approach will not work. The mentor you need may not be the mentor you have set your heart on. If the search for a perfect mentor is holding you back then maybe you should look closer to home and you may find what you are looking for.

    After we struggled to find the perfect mentor (with a fair amount of disappointment and heartbreak), we realised that each of us has strengths that we can share with the team. We took our first steps by mentoring each other. The most important aspect of this equation is that we were receptive to the knowledge being shared. We wanted to learn from each other. This is where women entrepreneurs can really thrive and it is something that is happening organically in a lot of organizations we know. Instead of looking outside for a formal mentor, we come together to form a collective of sorts where we are all equal partners and we share and receive our knowledge with a lot of respect for where each of us is coming from.

    That said, we made mistakes. We picked ourselves up and kept going. Today we have a formal mentor and the difference they have made to the way we work is exceptional. The bottom line is that when a mentor is hard to find, don’t let it stop your work.

    Reaching Out for Help

    As women, we find it hard to admit that we cannot make something work. We try twice as hard to find solutions because we have something to prove. This is ingrained into us from when we start our careers. As an entrepreneur, reaching out for help is very important and this may be where we differ from the men, we do not ask for mentorship enough. We don’t reach out to mentors out of fear. A report published by MicroSave Consulting for the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) found that 18 % of the women they surveyed were afraid of how they would be perceived when they reached out to a mentor. We are worried about how we will be judged. We worry if we will be able to communicate what we want to do so we are taken seriously. We worry if we will lose ownership of our own ideas and if we will be coerced into doing something we don’t want to. While these fears are valid, they need to be thought of as a right of passage. Overcoming them is important if you really want to succeed. You may really like the person you become at the end of all this.


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    The Journey Never Ends

    When Monika and I started Leadership Mavericks we decided that we would be the support we needed. We keep asking ourselves if we were giving our team what we would have wanted and more importantly, what they needed? We want to create a supportive environment. Of course, none of this would have been possible if we did not know what we wanted in the first place. As a woman entrepreneur, I don’t hesitate to admit that I don’t know what I don’t know. Figuring out what I don’t know is important to me. It makes me think about what I should do to make myself more aware. And we may have started a successful Executive Search firm but our journey hasn’t ended. Each of us has achieved varying degrees of success in all the things we are talking about in this article. We haven’t done it all. We always need to ask ourselves, “Where am I on my journey?” I don’t need an outsider to tell me what I am doing but I do need to invest in me. When we get caught in the flow of our day-to-day work we sometimes forget to pause and ask ourselves this question.


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  • Kiran Mazumdar Shaw: How Biocon Founder Became India’s First Biotech Queen?

    India is among the top 12 biotechnology destinations in the world, comprising around 600 biotech companies. In this article, you are going to find information about such a person who has made wealth all on his own, with sheer hard work and perseverance.

    Kiran Majumdar Shaw is an Indian Entrepreneur and Philanthropist who founded a biotechnology company, Biocon Limited in Bangalore, India. She is the Chairperson and Managing Director of Biocon. She received the Othmer Gold Medal for her exceptional contributions to the progress of science and chemistry. Financial Times named her in the business list of top 50 women. Forbes listed her as the 65th most powerful woman in the world. She was also named EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year 2020. She was ranked #2 in the Women Philanthropist list of 2019 by the Hurun Report India Philanthropy List 2019. As of the year 2020, she has an estimated net worth of $4.6 billion.

    Kiran Mazumdar is the executive chairperson and the founder of one of the most prominent biopharmaceutical companies around the globe, Biocon Limited. Kiran is a person who is an inspiration to thousands of women out there who are aspiring to become entrepreneurs. Read Kiran Mazumdar Shaw’s Success Story and know more about the journey of this amazing and inspiring woman.

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Biography

    Name Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
    Year of Birth 23 March 1953
    Nationality Indian
    Education Graduate degree in brewing from the University of Ballarat, Melbourne
    Profession Entrepreneur, Brewmaster
    Title Executive Chairperson – Biocon Limited and Biocon Biologics Limited
    Net Worth 370 crores USD
    Spouse John Shaw

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Personal Life
    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Education
    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Professional Life & Career
    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Founder of Biocon
    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Expansion of Biocon
    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Board Memberships
    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Challenges Faced in Entrepreneurship
    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Success story
    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Philanthropy
    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Awards & Recognitions

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw Success Story

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Personal Life

    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and John Shaw
    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and John Shaw

    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw was born to Gujarati parents in Banglore on 23rd March 1953, in a middle-class family. Her father, Rasendra Mazumdar was the head brewmaster at United Breweries.

    Since childhood, she aspired to become a doctor but couldn’t get a scholarship. In 1974, she was the only girl pursuing brewery course and topped in her class. At the age of 44, Kiran got married to John Shaw in the year 1989. John was working as the chairman at Madura Coats but left the job to join Biocon with Kiran. John Shaw is serving as the Vice Chairman of Biocon since 2001.

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Education

    Kiran initially wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps. She studied at Bangalore’s Bishop Cotton Girl’s high school.

    She then took a pre-university course from an affiliate of Bangalore University, Mount Carmel College. She further graduated with a bachelor’s degree in zoology from Bangalore University in 1973.

    Kiran wanted to pursue medical college but was unable to get any scholarship in any medical college. Her father then suggested to pursue fermentation science and get trained as a brewmaster, which is a very non-traditional field for women. She went to Ballarat College, Melbourne University in Australia to study malting and brewing. She earned her degree of master brewer in 1975. Kiran Shaw was the only woman who opted for the brewing course and with her intelligence, she topped in her class.

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Professional Life & Career

    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw with Leslie Auchincloss
    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw with Leslie Auchincloss

    Kiran started her professional career from Carlton and United Breweries, Melbourne, where she worked as a trainee brewer. Kiran Mazumdar completed her training in Carlton and United Breweries. She also worked at Barrett Brothers and Burston, Australia, as a trainee maltster.

    After coming back to India, she joined Jupiter Breweries in Calcutta as a technical consultant, and after gaining some experience there she worked as a Technical Manager at Standard Maltings Corporation situated in Baroda. She opted to further her career in Bangalore or Delhi but was told that “it’s a man’s profession” and that woman would not be employed as a master brewer in India.

    She started looking for work overseas and was given a position in Scotland. Leslie Auchincloss, the founder of Biocon Biochemicals Limited, of Cork, Ireland met Mazumdar before she could relocate. His firm produced enzymes used in the brewing, food packaging, and textile sectors.

    He was searching for an Indian entrepreneur to assist in the formation of a subsidiary in India. Kiran worked with the firm, and this was a life-changing opportunity for her. Leslie prepared her to work as a manager at his firm. Kiran went to India and began working for Biocon in a leased garage in Bangalore with an initial investment of 10,000 INR after she had a better understanding of the company’s operations and sales.

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Founder of Biocon

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw Founded Biocon Logo
    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw Founded Biocon Logo

    Kiran started with Biocon in 1978, she faced many challenges because of her youth, gender, and her untested business model. No bank wanted to lend her money, thus funding was a big issue.

    After getting her first funding she started with her first factory which was in a nearby 3000 sq. ft shed. The extraction of papain (a papaya enzyme used to tenderize the meat) and isinglass were the company’s first efforts (obtained from tropical catfish and used to clarify beer).

    Biocon India was the first Indian firm to make enzymes and ship them to the United States and Europe within a year of its founding. Kiran invested her first year’s profits in a 20-acre property, with plans to grow in the future. Kiran transformed Biocon India from an enzyme manufacturing firm to a fully integrated biopharmaceutical company because of her unique thinking and ideas.

    In 1984 Kiran discovered some new dimensions. At Biocon, a research and development team was created to focus on the development of innovative solid substrate fermentation methods. Biocon Pharmaceuticals was the first Indian biotech business to obtain funding from the United States for unique technology.

    Kiran started looking for alternative opportunities which were cost-effective as well low-cost. She had also proposed that drug companies be cost-sensitive in marketing to developing countries so that people can afford the drugs they need.

    Kiran and her husband John have always seen the need to provide people with the best they can, thus increasing and supplying affordable vaccines and medicines in India and helping society to overcome their medical requirements.

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Expansion of Biocon

    Biocon Subsidiaries
    Biocon Subsidiaries

    She managed to establish two subsidiaries of Biocon including, Syngene in 1994 and Clinigene in 2000. Syngene provided a contractual basis early research and development support service while Clinigene focused on clinical research trials and the development of both generic and new medicines. Clinigene was later merged in Syngene and it has a current market cap of Rs.14,270.

    She incorporated Biocon Biopharmaceuticals Private Limited (BBLP) in 1990 to manufacture and market a select range of biotherapeutics in a joint venture with the Cuban Center of Molecular Immunology.


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    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Board Memberships

    She is a member of the board of governors of the Indian School of Business and a term member of on the board of MIT, USA till 2023. She has been a former member of the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad. She was the first woman to head the board of governors of the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB).

    She is an independent director on the board of Infosys. She is a member of the General Body of Maharashtra State Innovation Society. She is also a member of the advisory board of the MIT Jameel Clinic.

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Challenges Faced in Entrepreneurship

    She started with a seed capital of Rs.10,000. Inspite of being a joint venture, Indian laws restricted foreign ownership to only 30% of the company. Thus, 70% of the company belonged to Kiran Mazumdar Shaw.

    She faced reliability challenges because of her youth, gender, and untested business model. She was unable to secure funding for her company initially. She tried hard and finally got her first financial backing. She also struggled while recruiting people to work for her startup. She had to face technological changes with an eye to building a biotech business in India, which was then having a poor infrastructure.


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    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Success story

    Kiran met Leslie Auchincloss, who is the founder of Biocon Biochemicals Limited, of Cork, Ireland. The aforesaid company produces enzymes to be used in brewing, food packaging, and textile industries. Auchincloss was desperately looking for an entrepreneur in India, who would help her in establishing an Indian subsidiary of Biocon.

    Kiran agreed to undertake the offer on a condition that if she did not wish to continue post six months, she would be given the position of brewmaster. She started working as a trainee manager at Biocon Limited, Cork, Ireland to learn more of the business. Post the training period, she returned India to establish the business.

    In 1989, Biocon Biochemicals of Ireland was acquired from Leslie Auchincloss by Hindustan Unilever. The partnership with Unilever helped Biocon to establish best practices and quality systems across the world. Unilever then sold its chemical division including Biocon to Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI). Her husband, John Shaw invested $2 million to purchase the shares of Biocon from ICI.

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Philanthropy

    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw The Giving Pledge
    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw The Giving Pledge

    With the great success of her company, Biocon has allowed Kiran to donate and be the support of the people who need help but do not have the resources. Kiran is a firm believer in sharing and cares about people hence giving at least half of her wealth to philanthropic work. This was when she joined The Giving Pledge movement in the year 2015.  

    With the support of her husband John, she started up with Mazumdar Shaw Foundation in India to help the needful. The key sectors of the foundation are Education, Healthcare, Art & Culture, and a Healthy Environment. The Foundation is involved in numerous health and education outreach programs to benefit the economically weaker sections of Indian society.

    Mazumdar Shaw Medical Center
    Mazumdar Shaw Medical Center

    Mazumdar Shaw foundation has also established a 1400 bed cancer care center in Bangalore, in collaboration with Devi Shetty. Her goal is to create a world-class cancer center with affordable treatment.

    Kiran Mazumdar Shaw – Awards & Recognitions

    Kiran Mazumdar honoured by the Government of India
    Kiran Mazumdar honoured by the Government of India

    Kiran Mazumdar has been awarded several times for her leadership and  success in entrepreneurship.

    • She has been Conferred with the Bombay Management Association (BMA) Business Leader of The Decade Award in 2022.
    • She has been awarded with the “Spirit of TiE – Trailblazers Award” by TiE Bangalore on World Entrepreneurs Day in 2021.
    • Biocon has been recognized among the Top 20 in the The Medicine Maker Power List 2019 under the Business Captains category in 2019.
    • Kiran has received Padma Shri in the year 1989 and Padma Bhushan in the year 2005.
    • Recipient of EY World Entrepreneur of the Year (2020) and EY Entrepreneur of the Year India Award (2019).
    • Recipient of Order of Australia (2020).
    • Recipient of ICMR’s Lifetime Achievement Award for Outstanding Achievement in Healthcare (2019).
    • Recipient of AWSM Award for Excellence (2017).
    • Knight of the National Order of the French Legion of Honour (2016).
    • Recipient of Othmer Gold Medal (2014).
    • Recipient of Global Economy Prize for Business (2014).
    • Ranked among the world’s 16 Most Powerful Women in Leadership in 2021 by CEO Magazine.

    Kiran is also fond of writing books and she loves reading novels. She has written and has got published two books: ‘Ale and Arty’ and ‘India’s Innovation Challenge for Inclusive Development.

    Conclusion

    The second richest self-made woman in India is the star and pride of the nation. Nobody knew about Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw but now she is one of the most influential women in the country. She has shown the world that a woman can do everything and is a living inspiration for young woman entrepreneurs.

    FAQs

    Who is the husband of Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw?

    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is married to John Shaw.

    How old is Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw?

    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw was born on 23 March 1953 and is 69 years old (2022).

    What is the net worth of Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw?

    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has a net worth of  $370 crores as of 2022.

    What is Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw’s education?

    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has done bachelor’s degree in zoology from Bangalore University in 1973 and earned a degree as master brewer in 1975 from Melbourne University in Australia.

  • The Successful Journey of Suchi Mukherjee: Founder & CEO of LimeRoad

    Growing at a 30% compound annual growth rate, the ecommerce industry is certainly emerging as one of the most popular industries in India. Online marketplaces of varying niches, are rising and dominating the Indian market that was once known for its mom and pop stores. LimeRoad, one of the first women’s social shopping sites, is currently among the most well-known shopping destinations of the Indians.

    Dealing primarily in clothing and accessories for men, women, and children, at the end of 2017, LimeRoad claimed to have scaled 150% in terms of revenue, traffic, and more and had also successfully secured the 2nd spot in the online fashion vertical, as mentioned by Suchi Mukherjee.

    Suchi Mukherjee is an Indian Entrepreneur, and the face behind the successful online shopping site, LimeRoad. Founded in 2012, Suchi Mukherjee is the Founder and CEO of LimeRoad, who founded the company with Ankush Mehra and Prashant Malik. While Malik has parted with the organisation, Mehra is still serving as the Co-founder and Director of A.M Marketplaces Pvt. Ltd., the parent company of LimeRoad, and Mukherjee is helming LimeRoad.

    She aimed at creating the largest women’s-only marketplace in South East Asia. She has been conferred with various awards owing to her contributions in ascending business and comprehending consumer technology. In 2011, Global Women’s Forum voted her No. 1 among 15 “Rising Talent- global leaders under 40” via World Women’s Forum.

    So, without further ado, let’s dive into the Life and Career of Suchi Mukherjee and the successful journey that Suchi experienced to date, which starts from her Early Life, and includes Suchi’s Education, Career at LimeRoad, Awards won by Suchi Mukherjee & more.

    Suchi Mukherjee – Biography

    Name Suchi Mukherjee
    Born 6 July 1973
    Birthplace Haryana, India
    Position Founder & CEO, LimeRoad
    Nationality Indian
    Education University of Cambridge
    Profession Entrepreneur
    Awards INFOCOM Women of the Year (2015), Unicorn Startup Award (2016) & more
    Marital Status Married
    Children 2

    Suchi Mukherjee – Early Life and Education
    Suchi Mukherjee – Career and Joblife
    Suchi Mukherjee – The Birth of an Entrepreneur
    Suchi Mukherjee – Personal Life
    Suchi Mukherjee – Honors & Awards

    Suchi Mukherjee – Early Life and Education

    Suchi Mukherjee hailed from a middle-class family in Haryana, India. She was a bright student in her school and college. Suchi studied at St Stephen’s College in Delhi, and was then enrolled in the University of Cambridge from where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Economics with Maths. She is a Cambridge Commonwealth Trust Scholar & Fellow and a Chadburn Scholar. She holds a University record in Development Economics. Suchi is the Elected Member of Newnham Associates from the University of Cambridge in 2008.

    Soon after she got admitted to The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), from where she obtained an MSc degree in Finance and Economics. She is also a British Chevening Scholar at LSE.


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    Suchi Mukherjee – Career and Joblife

    Suchi started working in a sector that was focused on Telecoms Media Technology (previously financial institutions) at Lehman Brothers Incorporation. She was a Senior Associate, Corporate Finance at the company and worked there for five years (July 1998 to June 2003).

    Post that, she joined Virgin Media, where Suchi became the Director of Change & Business Development and worked for 2 years. She was a member of the Consumer Division Management Team of the firm. The company grossed a revenue of $2.5 billion under her leadership. She worked there from June 2003 to May 2005.

    eBay Inc was the next company that she joined. Though eBay seems to have already lost the ecommerce war in India, as it looks like at least, it was previously among the ecommerce biggies. There she headed the Business Seller Programs and CS. She was a member of the UK Operating Management Team of the e-commerce portal and was prominently promoted in eBay, owing to her managerial and business skills. After 1 year, Suchi eventually emerged as the Director & Member of Executive Management Team at Skype, which was then a subsidiary of the Pierre Omidyar-founded eBay Inc company. She examined product and marketing, which included planning, product/UI design, payments, brand management, advertising channels, and more. She performed in the same job role from July 2007 to December 2008, before she was promoted again. Now, this time, it was GumTree, in which Suchi Mukherjee became the Managing Director & GM in January 2009. It was an eBay Inc company. She served at the company for over two years and left the job in August 2011. Under her leadership, the company escalated from No. 3 to No. 1 within a few years.

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    Suchi Mukherjee – The Birth of an Entrepreneur

    After performing extremely well in her career, and serving at numerous companies in over 5+ job roles, Suchi Mukherjee eventually thought of establishing her own startup that is focused on fashion and apparel for women. Suchi is currently serving as the Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the e-commerce site, LimeRoad, which was established in 2012. However, what drove her to pursue the life of an entrepreneur is something really interesting.

    The Idea Behind the Startup, LimeRoad

    The startup story of LimeRoad was kickstarted out of a moment of utter frustration that Suchi Mukherjee experienced. This was just after her second child was born. Suchi was 39 then and on maternity leave. One day Suchi was flipping through a magazine when she suddenly glanced at a very attractive piece of jewellery. However, the jewellery was there in a very small store in Mumbai and it couldn’t have reached her anytime soon. This made her realise 2 very important things that were central to the launch of LimeRoad:

    • There wasn’t any app/website/portal that helped pretty and interesting accessories to be discovered easily
    • There wasn’t any platform that allowed people to go through the lists of accessories that were manufactured to be sold outside India

    Thus, the aim to create a unique platform where one can find beautiful and affordable accessories and lifestyle products in an easy-to-use interface, was the main idea that drove Suchi Mukherjee to launch LimeRoad, which is now counted among the best female-founded fashion brands in India. The idea was foolproof to the very brim because she was aware of the fact that India was the manufacturing hub for over 21% of the lifestyle products that are sold across the world. This made her realize that it would then be certainly delightful and profitable too to bring all the vendors in the lifestyle product category under a single roof.

    “Here is an industry which is our strength. All I wanted to do was to use technology so that manufacturers, designers and sellers could flourish and users could source beautiful products, which currently they were not able to,” said Suchi.

    Starting up of LimeRoad

    LimeRoad Logo

    Suchi found a serious need for a devoted females’ portal where they can find inexpensive accessories and products without any hassles. This is where she found an opportunity to grow rapidly in the market. She kept in mind the needs of the females and knew that the women like to examine other options before being a product. Her masterful understanding of the business led her to get to the root of the real issue of service and product.

    Besides, there were plenty of nonidentified vendors who were not allowed to add their products to keep up with the quality. She worked on identifying the right balance between the demands and the supplies. Suchi flew back to India in 2011 with a vision of founding a global brand in the country, after she made all the arrangements, to work on this new startup.

    Suchi recalled, “with a passion for driving change and innovation, which is also the core element of Limeroad’s culture, I got together with my co-founders to build something transformational.” Prashant Malik, who worked at Facebook and returned to India to start with something new, and Ankush Mehra, who headed the supply chain of Reliance Hypermarkets, were introduced to Suchi Mukherjee by her common friends when she was evaluating the market opportunity a year before setting up LimeRoad.

    LimeRoad was visualised by Suchi Mukherjee and the other founders as the digital equivalent of the 16th century Grand Trunk Road that changed the face of trade in the Indian subcontinent.

    Suchi Mukherjee as the Co-founder and CEO of LimeRoad

    LimeRoad is hailed as one of the fastest-growing digital shopping platforms in India. It is currently a 50,000+ strong women’s community. From being a startup to the LimeRoad we see today that competes with companies like Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, Snapdeal, and more, Suchi Mukherjee’s contributions are undoubtedly huge. It was also under the leadership of Suchi Mukherjee that LimeRoad, today, boasts of having over 50 million visitors.


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    through selling the idea of a fairy-tale. Something that’s so deeply rooted and
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    LimeRoad Challenges

    Limeroad, just like any other startup, too had to face a whole lot of challenges when it started up. One of the major problems that the startup faced was the difficulty in finding the right people to build a solid team that could help the company get a blend of skill and a can-do attitude. Although LimeRoad could get over this challenge that was imposed, it tends to pop and test the company every now and then.

    Getting the right infrastructure with a high-speed and reliable internet connection was also difficult. Suchi Mukherjee also had to confront numerous legal processes to register a company, which she had no previous experience in dealing with, especially in India.

    One other challenge was to find the perfect work-life balance. Suchi felt that being a woman it was tough to be an entrepreneur because back then she also had huge familial commitments. However, one thing is certain Suchi was really supported by her family, which included her husband.

    LimeRoad and its Team at Present

    LimeRoad was founded as an online shopping platform in 2012 by Suchi Mukherjee, Ankush Mehra, and Prashant Malik. The company is currently headquartered in Gurugram, Haryana, India, where Suchi serves as the Co-Founder and CEO of the company.

    Ankush Mehra, Suchi Mukherjee and Prashant Malik from Left to Right – Founders of LimeRoad 

    It is a social-commerce platform primarily made for women with an improbable diameter of carefully selected retailers. It enables customers to discover the best lifestyle products across categories like apparel, accessories, home, and non-perishable food.

    Bollywood Actor Neha Dhupia serves as the Art Director of LimeRoad. Dhupia was roped in by LimeRoad back in May 2014, who eventually picked up stakes in the company and is a regular employee of LimeRoad who draws a salary each month. Neha was originally the choice of LimeRoad because of her glam quotient that everyone is familiar with. Ahti Heinla, Founding Architect of Skype and Michel V Swaaji, Ex-Chairman of Skype, serves as the Advisors of LimeRoad and are among the Board of Advisors of the company. The investors of LimeRoad include Matrix Partners, Lightspeed Venture Partners, and Tiger Global. LimeRoad was last valued at $108.18 mn (around Rs 838.5 crore) after a funding round in October 2019.


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    Suchi Mukherjee- Personal Life

    Suchi Mukherjee and her Family

    She got married to her long-time boyfriend, Sandeep Kunte, Director Treasury at Barclays Bank. Sandeep and Suchi tied the knot in 2006 and the couple now bears two children, daughter Myra and son Aadit. Suchi first met Sandeep, her future husband, at St Stephen’s College. Until now, no controversies arose against her. Her husband and family are known for being supportive throughout her life to date.


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    Suchi Mukherjee – Honors & Awards

    Both Suchi Mukherjee and the company, LimeRoad have been felicitated with numerous awards and accolades. Here’s presenting a list of some of the most prominent ones:

    • LimeRoad received the Coolest startup of the year award from Business Today in 2015
    • Suchi won INFOCOM Women of the Year in 2015
    • NDTV conferred her with the Unicorn Startup Award in 2016
    • The Economic Times nominated her for the ET Startup Award in 2017

    FAQs

    Who is Suchi Mukherjee?

    Suchi Mukherjee hails from Haryana, India, and is known as the Co-founder and CEO of LimeRoad, an Indian online marketplace owned by A.M Marketplaces Pvt. Ltd.

    Where was Suchi Mukherjee born?

    Suchi Mukherjee was born in Haryana, India.

    Is Suchi Mukherjee married?

    Yes, Suchi Mukherjee is married to Sandeep Kunte and has a son and a daughter.

    What is LimeRoad?

    LimeRoad is primarily known as a fashion ecommerce marketplace founded by Suchi Mukherjee, Prashant Malik, and Ankush Mehra, which was founded in 2012, and helps the users discover, shop, and share a wide array of fashion products and accessories that are above the mundane.

    What is the valuation of LimeRoad?

    LimeRoad was last valued at Rs 838.5 crore ($108.18 mn) in October 2019.

  • Restart Your Career With These Top 7 Returnship Programs for Women in India

    Women have always been an important part of some of the greatest accomplishments in the world. History has been created by them in every sector, especially the business industry, with the leadership qualities they are the head of some most popular companies in the world.  

    Even after facing a roadblock, they broke all the chains of shackles and are soaring high in the sky. The business world has seen some great women taking charge and leading from the front.

    Just like how women are playing big roles in every industry, there are women out there who have stopped working for different reasons. Those reasons range from taking care of their own self including mental and physical health, taking care of their families or some other pivotal reasons. As time passes, when they feel like coming back into the work environment, they might feel awkward and a little hard while re-launching their career.

    Nevertheless, various organisations have taken a step forward to eradicate this problem. Now we get to see a number of big companies organizing returnship programs. In this article, we will talk about the top returnship programs for women in India. So let’s get started.

    “I want every little girl who’s been told she’s bossy to be told again she has leadership skills.” -Sheryl Sandberg

    Google Next Innings Program
    Amazon Rekindle Program
    IBM’s Tech Re-Entry Program
    PayPal Recharge India
    Microsoft Springboard
    Accenture Return to Work Program
    Thoughtworks Vapasi

    What is Returnship Programs?

    There are people who leave their career behind and take their time off for many different reasons; it can be because of their child, to take care of their mental health or physical health, or learn some new things about themselves.

    When they decide to return to their job once again, they might need some help, because of that some organisation offers returnship programs to them.

    Returnship program is like an internship where instead of starting from the bottom you get introduced to your previous role and it helps you in understanding your role. Apart from that you also get to catch up with all the changes that have happened during your absence.

    Google Next Innings Program

    Google Next Innings Program Homepage
    Google Next Innings Program Homepage

    This program is for women who are looking forward to going back to their careers once again. Various experience leaders come forward to guide and mentor you. Some of the people who got selected, get a chance to work on Google Cloud’s core technologies where one not only get to see the development of the product but also learn and gain experiences from the experts. It is paid programme of 6 months and can be only done in Bangalore and Hyderabad

    To join this program one must have 3 years of experience, must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or other technical related fields. Apart from that, a certain level of knowledge in programming languages is also needed. It is applicable for those women who have taken a break of 6 months or more.

    Amazon Rekindle Program

    Amazon Rekindle Program Homepage
    Amazon Rekindle Program Homepage

    One of the largest E-commerce platforms has launched this returnship program for women who have taken at least a 12-month break from their careers. This program is a ladder for those women who want to acquire the same position that they were in before their break.

    Those who want to apply for this program must come with previous experience in their position. After candidates join this program, information regarding interviews is provided to them apart from that they get mentored by experienced people as well.

    IBM’s Tech Re-Entry Program

    IBM’s Tech Re-Entry Program Homepage
    IBM’s Tech Re-Entry Program Homepage

    This program is for those who have taken at least 2 years of break from their careers and is thinking to return to their place. Women applying for this program must have experience before, the best part even if someone has taken a break of 20 years, they can also apply in this program.

    This program was launched in 2018 and it attains women to sharpen their skills and give them an opportunity to work with new technologies. Throughout the program, the candidates will be mentored by experienced professionals and the best from the rest will be taken for full time in IBM.

    PayPal Recharge India

    PayPal Recharge India
    PayPal Recharge India

    Available in Bangalore and Chennai, this program is for those women who have been working in the tech industry and has been away from their work for 1 to 5 years and is now thinking about returning to their job. Through this program, one gets to join PayPal’s boot camp and some also get into the skill-building programs and also get attractive job offers at PayPal as well.

    Microsoft Springboard

    Microsoft Springboard Homepage
    Microsoft Springboard Homepage

    The program offered by Microsoft in India provides an opportunity for women who have taken at least a break of 6 months from their careers. The applicants of the Springboard program must have experience of four years. The program is for 16 weeks and it is said to be a popular one for women who are trying to revive their careers after the break. Experienced leaders took the charge to mentor the candidates.

    Accenture Return to Work Program

    Accenture Return to Work Homepage
    Accenture Return to Work Homepage

    Accenture Return is 16 weeks paid returnship program, applicable to those who are away for at least 18 months or more. Job training is offered through this program, workshops are done to polish some skills of the candidate, especially their soft skills. After the tenure of the program is completed, Accenture offers full-time job opportunities to the candidates.

    Thoughtworks Vapasi

    Thoughtworks Vapasi Homepage
    Thoughtworks Vapasi Homepage

    Just like the above programs, Thoughtworks Vapasi is all about helping women make a comeback to their workplace after a break. Women must have at least three years of experience to apply for this program and have taken a break of 1 to 8 years. This program provides mentoring from experienced leaders and helps in enhancing the leadership qualities of the candidates. The program is hosted in the Bangalore and Hyderabad offices of Thoughtworks.

    Conclusion

    Women have proven their mettle again and again in every industry, the returnship programs help women to take charge of their career after the break that they took.  All these returnship programs provide valuable skills, mentorship and opportunities which helps Indian women to make a comeback in their professional life with a bang.

    FAQs

    How do returnship works?

    Returnships programs are internships offered to adults who took a break from their careers, they provide career opportunities by sharpening their skills, providing mentorships so that the candidates can go back to their previous job roles.

    Are returnships paid?

    Yes, many of the returnships are paid and are quite helpful for people.

    What is the benefit of the returnship program?

    Returnship program helps in learning new skills and new job opportunities are offered. It helps you get back to your work after a break and lets you start where you left off.

  • Top 9 Schemes Financing Women Entrepreneurs in India to Fly High and Shape Up their Dream

    India has been the victim of patriarchy for ages and this has led to the downfall in women-specific matters. Earlier, various social taboos restricted women from studying and working. Entrepreneurship was something out of reach for them. But in recent decades, things have changed a lot.

    Women have now achieved a lot. Not a single sector is being left where they are not successful with flying colours. Despite restrictions and lack of social support, women’s entrepreneurship is rising. As a result, the government has taken steps to boost women to come forward and give way to their dreams and career.

    Gone are the days when lack of capital was a barrier for women to start a business. Several schemes and benefits are being introduced by big organizations for women’s development. Also, this development is heading towards the economic growth of the nation and it is an inspiration for many.

    A report by TOI states that more than 1 lakh projects are running under the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Program since its start. Well, if you are a woman and have a top-notch business plan, you are in the right place. Read out the article below to find out which scheme suits you the best.

    Annapurna Scheme
    Udyogini Scheme
    Stree Shakti Scheme
    Bharatiya Mahila Bank Business Loan
    Cent Kalyani Scheme
    Mudra Yojana Scheme
    Dena Shakti Scheme
    Mahila Udyam Nidhi Scheme
    TREAD Scheme

    Annapurna Scheme

    The State Bank of Mysore and Bharatiya Mahila Bank is offering Annapurna Scheme to women interested in starting a food catering business. This government launched scheme provides a loan of up to Rs 50,000. Further, the loan is being used as working capital to buy products such as utensils and kitchen equipment.

    Moreover, a guarantor and collateral in the form of the asset are needed to avail this scheme. The best part of this scheme is that you can repay the amount within three years.

    Also, women who avail of the loan get a grace period of one month before the repayment process begins. But, the interest rates depend on the market rate. The lender gets the benefit by not paying the EMI for the first month.

    Udyogini Scheme

    Udyogini scheme was started by Women Development Corporation to provide loans to women who want to start their small ventures. In this scheme, any woman who wants to start a business categorized under 88 small-scale industries will get a loan of up to Rs 3 lakhs.

    The industries include fisheries, groceries, trailering, poultry, dairy, bakeries, etc. Apart from that, if someone starts a business in the agricultural sector, they will be provided with an interest-free loan.

    Besides, the government also proposes to give up to 30% subsidy on loans to make the repayment affordable for women entrepreneurs. Moreover, the scheme also offers training to women about business planning, pricing, and feasibility. The scheme helps micro industries to grow and support underprivileged women from rural areas to earn their livelihood.


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    Stree Shakti Scheme

    Started by various branches of SBI, this scheme is beneficial to women entrepreneurs associated with the Entrepreneurship Development Program (EDP) run by the state agency.

    Women with majority ownership in small businesses are eligible for this program. Here, women can avail of a 0.5% concession on loans above Rs 2 lakh, and no security is needed when the loan amount is up to Rs 5 lakhs. Also, you can avail of a loan of up to Rs 50 lakhs.

    Bharatiya Mahila Bank Business Loan

    The scheme, implemented by Bhartiya Mahila Bank merged with the State Bank of India. It is a boon for women who want to run their businesses in the retail sector. The scheme allows for a loan of up to Rs 20 crore for a manufacturing enterprise.

    Also, a concession to the extent of 0.25% on the interest rate ranges higher starting from 10.15%. Besides, the collateral-free loan is being offered up to Rs 1 crore under CGTMSE (Credit Guarantee Fund Trust For Micro and Small Enterprises) cover.

    Cent Kalyani Scheme

    The Cent Kalyani scheme was started by the Central Bank of India. It offers loans to women involved in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, retail trading, or any agricultural practices.

    Here, a loan of up to Rs 1 crore is offered to women entrepreneurs without any collateral or guarantor. The interest rate in this scheme depends on the market rate. Additionally, it requires no processing fee and the tenure is of up to 7 years.

    Mudra Yojana Scheme

    The Mudra Yojana Scheme or the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) scheme was launched in 2015 by the government of India in order to help the startups and entrepreneurs in India. A “government scheme for small units” is also a great initiative for the women entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs-to-be who are willing to start with small enterprises like beauty parlors, tailoring stations, tuitions etc.

    With the Mudra scheme, loans worth Rs 50,000 – Rs 50 lakhs can be availed of by women. Here, they should only have to provide collateral and guarantors in case the loan amount they request is over Rs 10 lakhs. The 3 plans that are under this scheme are:

    • Shishu plan – This extends loans up to Rs 50,000 for new businesses.
    • Kishor plan – This offers individuals and businesses loans that range between Rs 50,000 and Rs 5 lakh for the enterprises that are already established.
    • Tarun plan – This extends loans between Rs 5 lakh and Rs 10 lakh for the expansion of businesses.

    Dena Shakti Scheme

    Dena Shakti Scheme is one of the schemes offered by the Dena Bank, which empowers women entrepreneurs, where the women who are employed in the fields of agriculture, retail, manufacturing, are small enterprises or micro-credit organizations are hugely benefitted. The Dena Shakti Scheme offers women entrepreneurs up to Rs 20 lakhs for the women employed in the above-mentioned categories, whereas it extends loans up to Rs 50,000 in the micro-credit category.

    Mahila Udyam Nidhi Scheme

    Mahila Udyam Nidhi Scheme is another scheme centered on the women entrepreneurs of India. Launched under the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), this scheme offers the women entrepreneurs of the country financial aid up to Rs 10 lakhs, which they can use to set up small-scale ventures. The upgrading and modernisation of the existing products are another vertical that is greatly empowered by the Mahila Udyam Nidhi scheme. The funds received through this scheme allow the women business leaders to have a time span of 10 years within which they need to repay the funds they receive, where there is a 5-year moratorium period.  

    The TREAD Scheme, expanded to Trade Related Entrepreneurship Assistance and Development, is a government of India scheme that is focused on women who lack access to bank credit. Providing for business projects, conducting training and counselling sessions are some of the main focuses of the TREAD scheme. The scheme provides up to 30% of the total project cost via the government grant as per the assessment of the lending organisations, while the remaining 70% would be financed by the lending institutions themselves. The TREAD scheme offers a maximum of Rs 5 lakh per project.


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    Conclusion

    With the onset of women entrepreneurship in India and its fast-rising growth, government and non-government institutions are keen on supporting them. Fund generations and capital formation is now not a barrier anymore for women who either want to start a business as their dream project or want to earn their livelihood. The economy now needs contributions from women with the belief in their talent and hard work.

    If you are one of them who want to start a business at an early age as your dream career or think of supporting your family, go on to avail the benefits of the schemes and funds by several institutions.

    Now no more struggling to collect funds and no more arguments with family. Your power is within you. You need to wake up and make yourself aware of the benefits that revolve around you and are meant for you.

    FAQ

    Which scheme is meant for women entrepreneurs?

    Annapurna Scheme, Udyogini Scheme, Stree Shakti Scheme, and Cent Kalyani Scheme are some of the schemes that are boosting women entrepreneurs.

    How do I become a female entrepreneur?

    Becoming a female entrepreneur is not easy still in this male-dominated society. Having a clear vision, identifying market opportunities duly, learning business skills, networking, planning finances are some of the fronts that a woman entrepreneur should develop on.

    Who is the most famous female entrepreneurs?

    Indra Nooyi, Vandana Luthra, Falguni Nayar, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw are some of the most famous entrepreneurs in India.

  • List of Indian Clothing Brands Founded by Women

    Indian women are no longer bound to a housewife’s job in today’s society; instead, they are redefined. They freely and enthusiastically contribute to the household and lead a business. Currently, the retail business is booming, and women are eagerly joining this sector to get information from a fresh perspective. It is a profitable job, and there is an intense desire among women to work in retail. A constantly rising tribe of female entrepreneurs has been carving out a name for themselves in various fields and businesses.

    In a society where gender stereotypes abound, there are 6 Indian clothing firms created by women who impact the fashion retail sector and are critical in the development of successful enterprises.

    Indian clothing brands Founded by Women

    Conclusion
    FAQs

    Indian Startups founded by Women

    Indian clothing brands Founded by Women

    Here are some of the top Indian clothing brands that are founded by women.

    Biba

    Founder : Meena Bindra
    Founded: 1988

    Biba- Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women
    Biba- Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women

    BIBA was established as a brand in 1988 by designer turned entrepreneur Meena Bindra. After years of wholesale distribution to traditional retailers, it opened its first exclusive store in Inorbit Mall of Mumbai in the early 1990s.

    BIBA was one of the first few brands to employ the shop-in-shop model.

    In 2012, it was named the Most Admired Women’s Indian Wear Brand of the Year by Images, and at the CMAI Apex Awards. BIBA was named Best Women’s Ethnic Wear Brand of the Year.

    BIBA has attracted people across India with its characteristically North Indian design sensibility. It has created the BIBA Girls, a children’s collection.

    BIBA now has a presence in 76 Indian cities, with 192 exclusive brand locations and over 250 multi-brand outlets, and Biba Apparels’ annual sales are projected to be about Rs. 600 crores.


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    WROGN

    Founder: Anjana Reddy
    Founded: 2012

    Wrogn - Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women
    Wrogn – Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women

    Wrogn is a Bengaluru-based startup started by Anjana Reddy and owned by Universal Sportsbiz. On November 20th, 2012, it was established. Sachin Tendulkar was one of the first investors, buying 21% of the company in 2013. Wrogn then enlisted Virat Kohli as a brand ambassador before investing with him. The brand has gone from strength to strength since its launch in 2012, coinciding with Virat Kohli’s meteoric ascension in the cricketing world. The income for the fiscal year 2016-17 rose to an incredible Rs 101 crore.

    In 2018, Wrogn reached a new high when it became the official clothing partner of IPL team Royal Challenger Bangalore. With its youth-centric design and marketing, the fashionable sports brand has struck a chord with the youth.

    Universal Sportsbiz, the brand’s parent company, has raised Rs. 91.5 crores in funding from Altera Capital, Accel Partners, and others.

    IMARA

    Founder: Anjana Reddy
    Founded: 2015

    Imara - Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women
    Imara – Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women

    IMARA, which was also launched in 2015 by Anjana Reddy, the CEO and creator of USPL, has struck a chord with fashion-conscious young urban women. The brand began by selling at Shoppers’ Stop stores and is now available on fashion websites such as Jabong and Myntra. With the opening of exclusive brand locations around the country, IMARA is pursuing an omnichannel approach.

    The brand offers the young a wide range of styles and experiments to choose from, all at reasonable pricing. Since February 2020, Kareena Kapoor Khan has been the brand spokesperson for IMARA. Jacqueline Fernandez was the company’s previous brand ambassador.

    IMARA now has 210 places of sale across India, with the goal of doubling that number in the next two years.

    Indya

    Founder: Shivani Poddar and Tanvi Malik
    Founded: 2016

    Indya - Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women
    Indya – Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women

    Shivani Poddar and Tanvi Malik launched Indya, an omnichannel quick fashion business, in 2016. New-age silhouettes with classic embroideries, designs, and motifs are the focus of the brand.

    The brand now has over 300 retail locations around the country. With 25 own-stores throughout India, Indya has taken the first step in its offline journey, with many more to follow.

    HSE, Indya’s parent business, has positioned itself as a one-stop-shop for all urban, twenty-something women’s fashion demands. HSE also owns FabAlley, a fast-fashion Western wear brand with globally contemporary garments and accessories, and Curve, a plus-size Western wear brand. All three companies have their own distinct style signatures and are tailored to today’s ladies.


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    Vajor

    Founder: Natasha AR Kumar
    Founded: 2014

    Vajor - Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women
    Vajor – Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women

    Vajor is an e-commerce women’s wear Fashion & Lifestyle company started by Natasha AR Kumar in September 2014.

    On April 17th, 2018, it established its first retail location in Delhi. The business plans to open ten to twelve new stores in Goa, Bengaluru, Lucknow, Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Pune, and Jaipur in the near future.

    Vajor has also opted to broaden its product offering by entering the menswear and ethnic clothing segments in order to reach a larger audience. Women’s clothing, footwear, handbags, jewellery, accessories, and home décor are now available.

    Okhai

    Founder: Kirti Poonia
    Founded: 2008

    Okhai - Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women
    Okhai – Indian Clothing Brand founded by Women

    The Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development established the Okhai Centre for Empowerment in 2008. Kirti Poonia, a TAS participant, saw that Okhai’s products merited the world’s notice. In 2015, she transformed the NGO into a full-fledged e-commerce company.

    Apparel, accessories, and handicrafts are among the items produced in Okhai. These items are available for purchase in retail showrooms in Mithapur and Ahemdabad. The items are a combination of the Tribal Women’s traditional art form and the designer’s designs. In 2015, Kirti established the Okhai website. The goods were gradually added to platforms such as Tata Cliq, Amazon, Nykaa, and others.

    In the near future, the firm intends to generate Rs 50 crore in sales by 2025, employing 1 lakh craftsmen in India and pushing for fair salaries for Indian artisans while offering clients with cheap and sustainable design.

    With the staff on board, Okhai intends to move the project forward at a faster speed. They also plan to open ten physical retail locations while expanding online and expanding into related sectors.

    They also want to develop in the areas of maternity wear, sustainable children’s clothing, Diwali and Holi-themed items, emotion, and theme-based collections.

    Conclusion

    Women are now in charge of everything, from traditional woman-friendly businesses like cottage industries to cutting-edge startups.

    There are around 8 million female entrepreneurs in India, and women hold 10% of all official businesses. According to studies, female-owned firms in India are predicted to increase by up to 90% in the next five years, compared to similar enterprises in the United States and the United Kingdom, which are expected to grow by 50% and 24%, respectively.

    FAQs

    Who are the top women entrepreneurs in India?

    Some of the top women entrepreneurs in India are:

    • Vandana Luthra – VLCC
    • Shradha Sharma – YourStory
    • Falguni Nayar – Nykaa
    • Upasana Taku – Mobikwik
    • Suchi Mukherjee – LimeRoad
    • Mansi Gupta – Tjori
    • Nisaba Godrej – Godrej Consumer Products
    • Sugandha – Docttocare
    • Gazal Kalra – Rivigo
    • Vani Kola – Kalaari Capital

    Which are the top clothing brands in India?

    Some of the top clothing brands in India are:

    • Peter England
    • FabIndia
    • W for Women
    • Raymond
    • Allen Solly
    • Mufti
    • Indian Terrain
    • AND
    • Pepe Jeans
    • Mufti

    Some of the most popular clothing brands for women are:

    • Zara
    • Biba
    • Global Desi
    • Globus
    • Levis
    • W for women
    • AND
    • Forever 21
    • Only
    • The Label- Ritu Kumar