Startup Assam: How Are Assam's Women Entrepreneurs Shaping the Future?

Assam, a state in Northeast India, is home to a vibrant community of women entrepreneurs who are breaking barriers and achieving success in various industries. Despite facing unique challenges, these women are driven by their passion, grit, and determination to succeed. Assam ranks 15th in India in terms of women entrepreneurship, according to a report by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). The state has a total of 1.35 lakh women entrepreneurs, which accounts for 12.6% of the total entrepreneurs in Assam.

Assam Startup Ecosystem

While Assam still lags behind many other states in terms of women entrepreneurship, there has been a significant increase in the number of women-led startups in the state in recent years. In fact, Assam has seen a surge in women-led startups in sectors such as textiles, handicrafts, and food processing, with many women entrepreneurs availing of government schemes and initiatives to set up their own businesses. Despite the challenges, Assam's women entrepreneurs have shown remarkable resilience and determination, and the state is poised to see significant growth in women-led startups in the coming years. In this article, we will explore the stories of a few remarkable women and the initiatives that are supporting them.

Daisy Brahma, Founder, DB Weaves

Daisy Brahma, the founder of DB Weaves, is a talented entrepreneur who has made a significant impact in the textile industry. After graduating from NIFT, Delhi, she gained valuable experience working with reputed export houses for eight years. In 2017, she took the leap to start her own venture, DB Weaves, which has become a successful enterprise. Based in Kokrajhar, Assam, DB Weaves specializes in creating traditional Bodo attire, dokhonas, using three power looms. Daisy's focus on quality and comfort has given her a competitive edge, and her products are in high demand through B2B channels and exhibitions. She continuously innovates new designs and plans to expand her product line to include uniforms and wedding dresses. As a part of Project Her&Now, a fully-funded program supporting women entrepreneurs, Daisy is poised to take her business to new heights.

Akitoli Suu, Founder, Organic Toiletries

Akitoli Suu, the founder of Organic Toiletries, is a Naga woman from Assam who revolutionized the personal care industry with her natural and organic products. Inspired by her own struggles with sensitive skin, Akitoli began creating chemical-free soaps and creams using traditional recipes and locally sourced ingredients. Her passion project soon turned into a successful business, with a range of products that are free from harmful chemicals and made from natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils. Under her leadership, Organic Toiletries has gained a loyal customer base, both online and in local stores, and has become a symbol of sustainable living and community support. Akitoli's vision has earned her recognition, including awards from the Assam government, and has inspired a new generation of entrepreneurs, particularly women, to pursue their passions and make a positive impact on the world.

Initiatives Supporting Women Entrepreneurs in Assam

Various initiatives support women entrepreneurs in Assam and India, fostering their growth and success. The Indian Women Network (IWN) and Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) offer mentorship, networking, and training. Startup India and Assam Startup Policy provide funding, mentorship, and regulatory support. The Women's Economic Empowerment (WEE) Program and Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK) offer microfinance and financial assistance. Udyogini Scheme and Women's Entrepreneurship Development Program (WEDP) provide training, mentorship, and funding. These initiatives empower women entrepreneurs, bridging the gender gap in entrepreneurship and promoting economic growth. They offer resources, guidance, and opportunities, enabling women to turn their ideas into successful businesses, creating a positive impact on their lives and the economy. By supporting women entrepreneurs, these initiatives contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous society.

Workshop for Women Entrepreneurs of Assam

Women entrepreneurs in Assam and India have access to a supportive ecosystem that fosters their growth and success. Initiatives like the Indian Women Network (IWN), Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), Startup India, and Assam Startup Policy provide a comprehensive framework for women to establish and expand their businesses. Additionally, programs like the Women's Economic Empowerment (WEE) Program, Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK), Udyogini Scheme, and Women's Entrepreneurship Development Program (WEDP) offer targeted support through funding, mentorship, training, and networking opportunities. These collective efforts aim to bridge the gender gap in entrepreneurship, empowering women to become drivers of economic growth and development. By providing resources, guidance, and opportunities, these initiatives enable women to turn their ideas into successful businesses, creating a positive impact on their lives, families, and communities, and contributing to a more inclusive and prosperous society.

Key Points

1. Women Entrepreneurs in Assam:
   - Assam ranks 15th in India for women entrepreneurship.
   - 1.35 lakh women entrepreneurs, 12.6% of Assam's total.
   - Growth in women-led startups in textiles, handicrafts, and food processing.

2. Supportive Initiatives:
   - Indian Women Network (IWN) & Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP): Mentorship, networking, training.
   - Startup India & Assam Startup Policy: Funding, mentorship, regulatory support.
   - Women's Economic Empowerment (WEE) & Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK): Microfinance and financial assistance.
   - Udyogini Scheme & Women's Entrepreneurship Development Program (WEDP): Training, mentorship, funding.

3. Goals and Impact:
   - Bridge gender gap in entrepreneurship.
   - Empower women to establish and grow businesses.
   - Promote economic growth and societal inclusion.

Assam's women entrepreneurs are breaking barriers and achieving success in various industries. Initiatives like IWN, IIM Calcutta Innovation Park, and Assam Startup are providing support and mentorship to women entrepreneurs, enabling them to achieve their dreams. As we celebrate the success of these women, we are reminded that entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business but about creating a positive impact on society.

Note: This insightful article has been crafted by our talented intern, Vaibhav Sheelwal.