In a bid to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for women entrepreneurs, Startup India has launched the Women for Startups: State Workshops initiative. These workshops aim to provide tailored assistance and guidance to both existing and aspiring women entrepreneurs across the country.
The latest edition, Women for Startups - Odisha Edition, is being organized in collaboration with Startup Odisha and the Government of Odisha and will take place in the vibrant city of Bhubaneswar. With a focus on empowering women in the startup ecosystem, this two-day workshop will encompass a range of sessions covering various aspects of entrepreneurship, including government schemes, finance, and pitching skills.
Crucial Role of Women in Startups
Women have emerged as a driving force in the startup ecosystem, bringing unique perspectives, innovative ideas, and a fresh approach to entrepreneurship. Their contribution is invaluable not only in terms of economic growth but also in promoting gender equality and inclusivity.
The presence of women as entrepreneurs is increasing in India. Around 47 percent of the total DPIIT-recognized startups have at least one women director.
According to recent data, the number of women entrepreneurs in India has been steadily rising, reflecting the increasing participation of women in the startup landscape. As of 2021, there were approximately 20 million women entrepreneurs in India, accounting for around 14% of the total entrepreneurial ecosystem in the country. Globally, this trend is also gaining momentum, with the number of female entrepreneurs reaching new heights.
Women for Startups - Odisha Edition
The Women for Startups - Odisha Edition workshop is set to create a supportive platform for women entrepreneurs in the state, providing them with the necessary knowledge, resources, and networking opportunities. The program will feature a range of sessions designed to cater to entrepreneurs at different stages of their startup journey, from ideation to scaling. Participants will have access to focused discussions on the startup ecosystem, enabling them to comprehensively understand the industry's dynamics and current trends.
Moreover, the workshop will shed light on the various government schemes and initiatives available to women entrepreneurs, offering guidance on effectively leveraging these resources. Finance-focused capacity-building sessions will equip participants with crucial financial management skills, empowering them to navigate the complexities of funding and investment. Furthermore, mock pitching sessions will allow entrepreneurs to refine their pitching techniques and receive valuable feedback from industry experts, enhancing their chances of securing investments.
How to Participate?
All aspiring and existing women entrepreneurs interested in fundraising and upskilling are encouraged to apply for the Women for Startups - Odisha Edition workshop.
Interested participants can apply online by clicking here. The last date to apply for the Women for Startups - Odisha Edition workshop is July 16.
On-the-spot registrations will be available at the venue, allowing participants to join the event directly. However, only online applications will be accepted for the mock pitching session. It is important to note that the physical workshop in Bhubaneswar is open to all applicants, both existing and aspiring women entrepreneurs from Odisha.
Exclusive Opportunity for DPIIT Recognized Startups
To ensure a focused and streamlined experience, the mock pitching session will be exclusively open to startups recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and Startup Odisha. This criterion aims to offer eligible startups an opportunity to showcase their ideas and receive personalized support from the startup ecosystem.
The Women for Startups - Odisha Edition workshop holds great promise for women entrepreneurs in the state, offering a platform for learning, collaboration, and empowerment. By equipping women with the necessary skills, knowledge, and access to resources, this initiative aims to accelerate their journey towards success in the startup ecosystem. With the rising number of female entrepreneurs both in India and globally, it is imperative to provide them with the support they need to thrive, as their success will undoubtedly contribute to a more diverse and vibrant entrepreneurial landscape.