Women in India are increasingly stepping into the realm of entrepreneurship as they strive for financial independence and empowerment.
While there has been a surge in the number of women entrepreneurs making their mark in various industries, a significant challenge persists. Despite their entrepreneurial drive and innovative ideas, many women face obstacles in securing investor confidence and funding support.
This disparity highlights the need for greater support systems and initiatives to bridge the gap and empower women entrepreneurs to thrive in the competitive business landscape.
“The upward trajectory in the representation of women in the Best Workplaces, soaring from 21 per cent in 2021 to a commendable 26 per cent in 2023, speaks volumes about the transformative journey towards gender inclusivity,” said Yeshasvini Ramaswamy, CEO of Great Place To Work, India.
Ramaswamy said that while India has made significant progress in fostering diverse workplaces, it needs to actively listen beyond socio-economic barriers, address the needs of our female employees (across age brackets), and create an environment where they are genuinely empowered.
“Investing in female leadership development needs building inclusive cultures, and celebrating diverse voices are not just buzzwords but essential steps toward unlocking our collective promise,” she said.
Organisations recognised for their efforts in building positive work environments for women see a demonstrably happier and more engaged workforce, she noted. Co-founder of YesMadam, Akanksha Vishnoi said it is essential to acknowledge and address these obstacles, creating a supportive environment where women can thrive.
“By championing diversity, fostering inclusion, and implementing supportive policies, companies should endeavour to create an ecosystem where women can balance their caregiving responsibilities with their professional aspirations,” Vishnoi said.
Women entrepreneurs face significant challenges when it comes to raising funds. Research indicates that gender bias is prevalent during the funding process, with 62 per cent of women entrepreneurs experiencing some form of bias. This bias often manifests as sexism, hindering women from securing investor confidence and funding support.
