Women's Day: Women Founders on Driving Inclusion in the Indian Startup Ecosystem
By: WE Staff
Akanksha Priyadarshini, Founder & CEO, Aurassure on How to Inspire Inclusion in the Indian Startup Ecosystem
I've always held the belief that women possess a unique blend of empathy and precision to effectively address the urgent issue of climate change. Our collaborative efforts with industry giants such as Google, Honeywell, and P&G, alongside securing seed funding from Unicorn India Ventures, serve as a testament to the remarkable achievements of women-led initiatives. This journey of ours highlights the transformative power of inclusion, demonstrating to aspiring women entrepreneurs across India that carving out a niche in this dynamic ecosystem is not just feasible but essential. By openly sharing our triumphs and the obstacles we've conquered, we do more than simply recount our experiences—we pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive startup landscape where women's leadership in technology is not only applauded but embraced as the norm.
Through initiatives like Startup India and Startup Odisha, our government has already established promising incentives for women-led startups, including dedicated incubation spaces, funding opportunities, and platforms for awards and recognition. Moreover, the implementation of diversity mandates in leadership roles can further enhance inclusivity. Equally vital is the support from VC communities; in my case, their invaluable business networks and mentorships have provided a nurturing environment that has been instrumental to our success.
Akanksha’s Message to Fellow Women across India on the occasion of International Women’s Day
“To my fellow women across India, my journey serves as evidence that we possess the innovation, resilience, and leadership prowess required to excel in any domain. As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let it serve as a reminder that our paths, marked by both triumphs and challenges, are paving the way for those who will follow. From humble beginnings in a Tier 2 city to making significant strides in technology and sustainability, our journey underscores the power of ambition and resilience.”