San Banerjee, Co-Founder & CEO, ADDA
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?
Since the age of 10, I have only lived in Apartment Communities - in Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore, Baton Rouge, Madison, and Chicago. Each Residential Community had a wide sphere of influence - on its Residents, Staff, Local Businesses, Local Governance, and also on the Environment. Well-run communities bring many positive changes to all these aspects. However, Residential Communities are often inefficiently run disconnected islands due to lack of affordable technology. I was well settled in an MNC job. When we moved into our first Apartment complex in Bangalore. I took up the Treasurer's role as a part of the Management Committee and experienced the problems firsthand. It was a pivotal point. I felt I could make a real difference. Not only could I help the selfless volunteer leaders who take up roles as Management Committee members with global standard yet affordable technology solutions, but also help in building connected communities that can transform neighborhoods.
I realized that if I didn’t take action, I would always wonder "What if?" That sense of responsibility, combined with a passion for my vision, fueled my decision to go all in. Of course, the journey hasn’t been easy, but each challenge has reinforced why I started—to build something that truly serves others and brings positive change. That purpose has been my guiding force and remains at the heart of everything I do as an entrepreneur.
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?
One change I’d like to see in the Indian startup ecosystem is a stronger commitment to mentorship and support networks specifically tailored for women entrepreneurs. While there has been progress, many women still face unique challenges—whether it’s securing funding, navigating male-dominated industries, or balancing societal expectations.
A focused mentorship system that connects experienced founders and industry leaders with women-led startups would be incredibly impactful. Not only would it provide critical guidance, but it would also help build confidence, open doors to networking, and encourage more women to pursue and sustain their entrepreneurial journeys. This change would contribute to a more inclusive, resilient startup ecosystem, ultimately benefiting the entire economy.
