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Written by Smita Tiwari
In India’s vibrant mosaic, where dawns are colored and dusk is covered with stories yet to be told, women entrepreneurs are scripting stories of resilience, innovation and inclusivity. I’m doing it. Amid dynamic chaos and a rich cultural backdrop, their journey is filled with challenges emblematic of the Indian landscape, navigating complex structures of social norms and deep-rooted expectations. Their experiences are deeply personal yet surprisingly universal, highlighting the daily challenges they face and painting a portrait of indomitable courage in the face of adversity.
Overcoming societal expectations and the balancing act
Within India’s social framework, women’s roles are often defined by expectations and women’s ambitions are fixed in the domestic sphere. For women entrepreneurs, stepping outside of these traditional roles to pursue their business dreams means quiet rebellion. Their daily lives reflect the tightrope they walk between adhering to their family and social roles and pursuing their entrepreneurial ambitions. Their days begin before dawn and move on to juggling household chores and strategic business considerations. The skepticism they encounter comes not only from broader society but sometimes from their own families, adding further emotional labor to an already difficult day.
Challenges in accessing funding and resources
Pursuing funding remains a major barrier for women entrepreneurs. Financial institutions and investors are often hesitant to support ventures led by women due to deep-rooted bias. Despite presenting a scalable and innovative business model, they found themselves battling doubts about their ability to lead and manage a company simply because of their gender. This skepticism often forces women entrepreneurs to rely on personal savings or loans from family members, limiting their ability to scale and innovate.
Building a network and support system
The importance of a robust network and supportive ecosystem is paramount in entrepreneurship. But for many women, such networks are lacking. Traditional business networks are often male-dominated, creating challenges for women seeking mentorship and partnership. The task of building a network from scratch highlights the need for women to create collectives that support each other, empower and uplift each other.
Facing cultural barriers and safety concerns
Cultural barriers and safety concerns significantly impact the experiences of women entrepreneurs. Pervasive safety concerns, especially in certain areas and at night, can make operational tasks, networking events, and even day-to-day management difficult. They are carefully addressing these challenges and adapting their business operations to ensure security without sacrificing opportunities for growth and success.
Proof of resilience in the face of adversity
Despite these challenges, the spirit of women entrepreneurs remains strong. Their journeys embody extraordinary resilience and determination, demonstrating innovative solutions amidst obstacles and creating spaces where inclusivity and empowerment can flourish. These stories are more than just personal victories. These are calls to action to remove barriers that limit women’s potential.
New support ecosystem
Importantly, a wave of change is occurring with the emergence of gender-neutral platforms and policies. Government policies and shows like Shark Tank India are working to support entrepreneurial businesses regardless of gender. However, these resources are primarily accessible to people in Tier 1 cities, highlighting gaps in the reach and accessibility of such support mechanisms. While these efforts represent progress toward a more inclusive ecosystem, the need for broader and more accessible support remains paramount. We must work to expand these opportunities beyond metropolitan areas and ensure that women entrepreneurs across the country have the resources, support, and platform to succeed.
As we embrace these stories, let us collectively strive to foster an ecosystem that not only recognizes, but celebrates and nurtures the indomitable spirit of women entrepreneurs. Their journey holds a blueprint for a more just, inclusive, and prosperous future.
(The author is Smita Tiwari, co-founder of Articlad, and the views expressed in this article are her own)
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