Neeja Shah Goswami, CEO, Whiskers India on How to Inspire Inclusion in the Indian Startup Ecosystem
“From the perspective of a woman entrepreneur in the Indian startup landscape, tell us about your opinion on how inclusion can be inspired in the Indian startup ecosystem. What steps can be taken by the government, business bodies, VC firms, and entrepreneurs themselves to ensure the inclusion of women entrepreneurs in the Indian startup landscape."
“The evolving Indian business environment is witnessing a surge in women-led small businesses, signaling a promising shift towards gender inclusivity. However, despite governmental support, many women entrepreneurs face challenges due to restrictive conditions attached to aid packages provided to them. Consequently, numerous budding businesswomen with significant growth potential often struggle to scale and thrive. To address this issue, there is a pressing need for enhanced incubation programs within business bodies and VC firms. These initiatives would empower women entrepreneurs with the necessary guidance and resources to make informed decisions regarding business structure and scalability. By fostering a gender-neutral ecosystem focused on evaluating the ideas, intent, and potential rather than gender, we can create a more equitable and supportive environment for all entrepreneurs. Such initiatives would not only promote diversity and inclusion but also unleash the untapped potential of women entrepreneurs, driving innovation and economic growth in the long run.”
Neeja’s message to other women-folk across India on International Women’s Day:
“The message I want to convey to all women is one of empowerment and recognition of their inherent strengths. Regardless of whether they lead a business or manage a household, every woman possesses remarkable qualities of strength, patience, and courage. Women need to acknowledge and celebrate these superpowers within themselves. Whether facing challenges in the boardroom or nurturing a family, women deserve to honor their achievements and capabilities. By embracing their unique strengths and abilities, women can inspire others and create a more inclusive and supportive community where every woman feels valued and empowered.”
