Anushruti Singh
Women entrepreneurs in India are no longer operating on the sidelines; they are becoming central to the nation’s startup story. By combining creativity, determination, and leadership, they are building businesses that contribute significantly to innovation and economic growth. But what does the data reveal about their impact? Here’s a closer look at the statistics and initiatives driving women-led startups in India.
Women in numbers: Rise of women-led startups
Since the launch of the Startup India Initiative in 2016, over 73,000 startups with at least one woman director have been recognised. This represents nearly 48 per cent of the total 1,52,139 startups supported under the initiative as of October 31, 2024. The numbers not only highlight women’s growing participation in entrepreneurship but also underscore their critical role in fostering innovation across sectors.
Funding the future: Financial highlights
The government has implemented flagship schemes that directly benefit women entrepreneurs, ensuring access to vital financial resources:
- Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs): ₹3,107.11 crore invested in 149 women-led startups.
- Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS): ₹227.12 crore approved for 1,278 women-led startups since April 2021.
- Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS): ₹24.6 crore in loans guaranteed for women-led ventures since April 2023.
Focused support for women entrepreneurs
The government has also implemented specialised measures to encourage women-led businesses:
- 10 per cent fund allocation: Reserved for women-led startups under the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS).
- Higher management fees for women-led AIFs: Providing an additional financial incentive for women-focused investment funds.
Bridging the gap: Capacity building and awareness
Women entrepreneurs are receiving targeted mentorship and resources to thrive:
- WING Workshops: Empowering women entrepreneurs through training and networking opportunities.
- Virtual Incubation: Pro-bono acceleration support for tech startups led by women.
- State Workshops: Providing knowledge on government schemes, pitching techniques, and financial literacy.
Recognition and visibility
To inspire and promote women entrepreneurs:
- National Startup Awards: Highlight women-led startups as a special category.
- SuperStree Podcast: Shares success stories of women entrepreneurs to encourage others.
The statistics paint a promising picture of the strides women entrepreneurs are making in India. With nearly half of government-recognised startups having women at the helm and increasing access to funding and mentorship, women are solidifying their role as a driving force in India’s entrepreneurial landscape.
While challenges remain, the upward trajectory of women-led startups signals a transformative shift toward a more inclusive and balanced economic future. As the numbers grow, so does the potential for women entrepreneurs to redefine innovation and inspire generations to come.
