Women Entrepreneurs in the Start-up Ecosystem in India: Barriers and Breakthroughs

Abstract

The diversification of the economy is an integral part of economic development. Accordingly, the share of the service, industry and business sectors is rapidly rising in the gross domestic production (GDP) of any country, and India is not an exception. That is why entrepreneurship is becoming vital for economic growth, innovation and job creation in the globalised world, not only for promoting socio-economic development but also for increasing competitiveness in various industries and corporates. Entrepreneurship is traditionally a male-dominated field, and women are struggling to make their presence. This has resulted in a paradigm shift in the global economic landscape in terms of diversity, inclusiveness, resilience and innovation in the business ecosystem. Their role is crucial in emerging economies like India, where fostering women-led start-ups can lead to broader social and economic transformation. Recognising their importance, the Government of India launched the Start-up India initiative on 16 January 2016, providing financial, skill enhancement and logistics support to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women. Despite these progressive initiatives, women entrepreneurs in India continue to encounter structural barriers. That is why merely 20% of Indian start-ups are led by women, highlighting the need for sustained policy interventions, mentorship programmes and capacity-building initiatives. This article is an attempt to analyse the status of women entrepreneurs in India’s start-up ecosystem, along with their constraints, success and suitable remedies to harness their optimum potential.