Niharika Jalan, CEO, Founder, Chief Growth Officer, INDICOLD
Entrepreneurship is a dream for many, but few possess the necessary skills and gumption to make it a reality. What inspired you to pursue your entrepreneurial dream?
Being an entrepreneur has always been more than just a dream for me—it's a journey defined by resilience, creativity, and an unyielding belief in the power of people. The path of entrepreneurship requires more than just a spark of an idea; it demands the commitment to build, adapt, and uplift those around you. For me, the most rewarding aspect has been building a team that shares a common vision and watching them grow and thrive alongside the journey. Enabling individuals, fostering their growth, and creating an environment where their potential can unfold has been one of my greatest satisfactions.
Yet, I believe there is more to achieve. One aspiration close to my heart is ensuring that every employee at Indicold earns a minimum wage of 40,000 INR per month. This goal is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a standard of living that frees them from immediate financial stress and allows them to focus on personal and professional growth. Building an ecosystem where people can prosper without the worry of basic financial needs is essential to a sustainable and thriving business. This is the vision that continues to drive me forward.
The Indian startup ecosystem is thriving, but perfection is still a work in progress. What is one change you would suggest in the immediate future?
The Indian startup ecosystem has shown impressive growth over the years, establishing itself as a global powerhouse of innovation and entrepreneurship. However, there is still much room for improvement, especially when it comes to creating an open and communicative work environment. One change I deeply advocate for as a woman entrepreneur at Indicold is fostering a culture where team members feel encouraged to speak up and ask questions without fear of judgment or repercussions.
Too often in startups, there exists an unspoken hesitancy among team members to voice their ideas or raise concerns. This reluctance stifles creativity, problem-solving, and personal growth. To truly thrive, startups need to embrace a culture where open communication is not just allowed but actively nurtured. Creating an environment where every team member feels valued and heard will empower individuals, drive innovation, and contribute to building resilient teams.
The journey of building a successful startup isn’t just about groundbreaking ideas; it’s about the collective effort of individuals who can openly collaborate and share their perspectives. By prioritizing open communication, we pave the way for more inclusive and progressive startups that harness the full potential of their teams.
