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Tag: Women in STEM

  • Women Empowerment Series I      Part 20/14

    Women Empowerment Series I      Part 20/14

    Career & Entrepreneurship

    How to Support Women-Owned Businesses: A Powerful Step Toward Women Empowerment and Economic Growth

    Series  I                                                                      Part 20/14

    Introduction: Why Supporting Women-Owned Businesses Fuels Women Empowerment

    Supporting women-owned businesses is more than just a feel-good initiative—it’s a powerful engine for women empowerment, gender equality, and sustainable economic development. Women entrepreneurs contribute innovative ideas, lead with empathy, and create inclusive workspaces that uplift communities. Yet, despite their immense potential, many face systemic challenges such as unequal access to funding, limited mentorship, underrepresentation in leadership roles, and persistent gender bias.

    By choosing to support women-led ventures, we not only strengthen local economies but also invest in a more equitable and inclusive future. Women empowerment through entrepreneurship drives job creation, promotes diversity, and helps bridge the opportunity gap. Whether you’re a consumer, policymaker, investor, or business leader, your role in supporting women-owned businesses can create lasting impact.

    This guide explores meaningful, actionable ways to support and uplift women entrepreneurs—fueling both empowerment and progress, one decision at a time.

    The Importance of Supporting Women-Owned Businesses

    Economics Benefits

    Supporting women-owned businesses delivers economic and social benefits that create a ripple effect across communities. Economically, these enterprises drive growth by adding diverse perspectives to the market, fostering innovation, and generating

    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, founder of Biocon, is a pioneering entrepreneur who champions women empowerment by breaking industry norms and inspiring women to lead in science, business, and innovation.
    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (born 23 March 1953) is an Indian billionaire entrepreneur. She is the executive chairperson and founder of Biocon

    employment. Studies show that women reinvest up to 90% of their income into their families and communities, amplifying economic stability. Closing the gender gap in entrepreneurship could boost global GDP by trillions, proving their critical role in sustainable development.

    Social Impact

    Socially, women-led businesses often prioritize ethical practices, inclusivity, and community welfare. They are more likely to support education, healthcare, and environmental initiatives, creating a positive societal impact. By empowering women entrepreneurs, we promote gender equality, financial independence, and

    women empowerment
    Vandana Luthra (born July 12, 1959) is an Indian entrepreneur and the founder of VLCC Health Care Ltd, a beauty and wellness conglomerate represented in Asia, the GCC and Africa

    leadership opportunities for future generations. Investing in women-owned businesses isn’t just good ethics—it’s smart economics and a catalyst for global progress.

    Barriers Faced by Women Entrepreneurs

    Access to Funding

    Despite their potential, women-owned startups receive a disproportionately small share of venture capital. Studies show that less than 3% of VC funding goes to women-led businesses. Financial institutions and investors must address this gap to create a level playing field.

    Gender Bias and Stereotypes

    Cultural and systemic biases continue to impact women in business. From being underestimated in boardrooms to receiving fewer mentorship opportunities, these challenges limit growth.

    Addressing these stereotypes is essential for equitable support.

    Limited Visibility

    Many women-owned businesses struggle with brand awareness due to lower marketing budgets or limited access to promotional platforms. Increasing their visibility through media, social channels, and partnerships is vital for sustained success.

    3 Powerful Ways to Support Women-Owned Businesses

    Make Local Women Entrepreneurs Your First Choice

    Two female executives in formal suits having a discussion in the office window showing women empowerment
    Breaking barriers—Women in leadership and decision-making roles.

    Frequent women-owned cafes, bookstores, and service providers in your neighborhood. Even small, regular purchases create steady revenue streams that help these businesses thrive and expand.

     Become an Active Advocate

    Leave positive reviews, share their products on social media, and recommend them to friends. For larger impact, urge your workplace to partner with women-owned suppliers or mentor aspiring female entrepreneurs.

    Why It Matters: These actions create real economic change – boosting gender equality while strengthening local economies. Every conscious choice helps close the entrepreneurship gap.

    .

    Amplify Their Voice

    Promote on Social Media

    Actively engage with women-owned businesses by following their pages, liking posts, and sharing their content. Tag friends in comments to expand their reach. Consistent social support helps algorithms favor their visibility, attracting more customers organically.

    Write Reviews & Testimonials

    Take 2 minutes to leave detailed 5-star reviews on Google, Yelp, or e-commerce sites. Highlight specific product benefits or service experiences. Authentic testimonials build social proof, directly improving conversion rates and search rankings for women entrepreneurs.

    Offer Business Support

    Provide Professional Services

    Leverage your expertise in marketing, finance, legal, or design by offering discounted/pro bono services to women-led startups. Even 2-3 hours monthly of strategic consulting can help them overcome critical challenges and scale smarter.

    Mentor and Network

    Commit to mentoring women entrepreneurs through monthly coaching sessions. Make key introductions to investors, partners, or industry groups. Invite them to speak at events to boost their credibility and connections.

    Invest in Women-Led Startups

    Angel Investing & Crowdfunding

    Support women-led startups through specialized platforms like IFundWomen or Kiva. Even small investments create big impacts—helping female founders access capital that’s often 3x harder to secure than male-led ventures. Crowdfunding also validates market demand for their innovations.

    Support Grant Programs

    Back organizations like Tory Burch Foundation or Cartier Women’s Initiative that provide non-dilutive funding. Grants enable women to scale without sacrificing equity, while business training programs build long-term sustainability. Advocate for corporate grant matching at your workplace too.

    Advocate for Policy Change

    Push for Inclusive Procurement

    Advocate for corporate/government supplier diversity programs mandating minimum procurement from women-owned businesses. This creates sustainable revenue streams – Deloitte found diverse suppliers deliver 30% better innovation. Track progress using supplier dashboards.

    Support Gender-Equity Legislation

    Lobby for policies like the Women’s Entrepreneurship and Economic Empowerment Act. Strengthened pay equity laws and childcare support directly increase women’s ability to launch/scale businesses – closing the 32% funding gap women founders face.

    Corporate and Institutional Role

    Supplier Diversity Programs

    Corporations should implement structured programs to source from women-owned suppliers, with clear annual targets (e.g., 15% procurement). Third-party certifications like WBENC help identify qualified vendors, while transparent reporting ensures accountability and continuous improvement in inclusion efforts.

    Training and Capacity Building

    Organizations should deliver practical workshops on financial literacy, e-commerce, and government tendering processes. Tailored programs addressing sector-specific challenges (like manufacturing or tech) help women entrepreneurs scale competitively and access new markets.

    Inclusive Media Representation

    Publishers should intentionally feature women founders across business media, case studies, and speaker panels. Highlighting diverse success stories (across ages/backgrounds) breaks stereotypes and creates visible role models for next-generation entrepreneurs.

    Global and Local Initiatives Supporting Women Entrepreneurs

    Around the world, numerous programs empower women in business through funding, training, and networking opportunities. Global initiatives like the Cherie Blair Foundation Mentoring Program and UN Women’s Empowerment Principles provide cross-border support, while Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women offers business education.

    Locally, many countries have women-focused business incubators, government grants, and networking groups. For example, Canada’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy allocates funding to female-led startups, while India’s Stand-Up India facilitates loans for women entrepreneurs.

    Community-based efforts, such as women’s business associations and female-focused angel investor networks, further strengthen regional ecosystems. These combined global and local efforts help bridge gaps in access to capital, mentorship, and market opportunities, fostering inclusive economic growth.

    Everyday Allyship: Practical Ways Individuals Can Support Women Entrepreneurs

     Educate Yourself and Others

    Research statistics like “women founders receive just 2% of venture capital” and discuss them in your networks. Follow thought leaders like Reshma Saujani (Girls Who Code) to stay informed. Share documentaries (“She Started It”) to spark conversations about gender gaps in business.

    Engage in Conscious Consumption

    Install browser extensions (Like “Buy Women-Owned”) that identify women-led brands. When shopping for services (accounting, design etc.), prioritize women-owned firms. Your spending habits directly shape market opportunities.

    Celebrate Women Entrepreneurs

    Feature women founders in your LinkedIn posts or community newsletters. Nominate them for awards. Attend their product launches. Public validation helps them secure investors and customers.

    Conclusion: Every Action Counts

    Supporting women-owned businesses is a step toward an equitable and thriving economy. Whether you’re a consumer, investor, policymaker, or professional, your role is crucial. By shopping consciously, offering support, advocating policy changes, and amplifying voices, we contribute to meaningful women empowerment.

    Let’s commit to turning everyday actions into a collective movement that uplifts women entrepreneurs and breaks down barriers. Because when women rise, we all rise.

  • Women Empowerment Series I      Part 20/13

    Women Empowerment Series I      Part 20/13

    Women Entrepreneurs Breaking the Glass Ceiling: A Powerful Journey of Women Empowerment

    Introduction: Shattering Boundaries, Building Futures

    In today’s world, women entrepreneurs are rewriting the rules of business and leadership. Across industries, they are breaking the glass ceiling—a powerful metaphor for the invisible barriers that prevent women from rising to top leadership positions. Empowered by education, innovation, and resilience, these trailblazers are driving the movement of women empowerment forward. They are now leading global enterprises, launching successful startups, and inspiring future generations. This blog explores how women entrepreneurs are not only breaking stereotypes and overcoming challenges but also reshaping economies in India and across the globe—proving that women empowerment is not just a concept, but a force transforming the modern business landscape.

    Understanding the Glass Ceiling

    What Is the Glass Ceiling?

    The glass ceiling is an invisible barrier that prevents women from rising to top positions in careers or business, despite having the skills and qualifications. It exists due to deep-rooted gender biases, societal norms, unequal access to opportunities, and limited support systems like mentorship and funding. This ceiling restricts women’s growth, keeping them from leadership roles and decision-making positions. Breaking it requires systemic change, inclusive policies, and active support for women’s professional advancement.

    Historical Context

    Historically, women were restricted to domestic roles due to rigid societal norms, preventing them from participating in economic and professional spaces. Although progress has been made over the decades, leadership roles have remained largely male-dominated. Today, the glass ceiling still exists in subtle but

    powerful ways—such as unequal pay, limited access to decision-making positions, and a significant gap in venture capital funding. These challenges reflect deep-rooted biases that continue to hinder the full empowerment of women entrepreneurs globally.

    Why Women Entrepreneurs Matter

    Economic Impact: Boosting Growth and Prosperity

    Women entrepreneurs play a crucial role in economic development. Their businesses create jobs, drive innovation, and contribute significantly to GDP. According to a McKinsey Global Institute report, advancing gender equality—especially through entrepreneurship—could add $12 trillion to the global GDP by 2025. When women have equal access to capital, training, and markets, they become powerful engines of economic change. Moreover, women-led enterprises often reinvest in their families and communities, supporting long-term development and poverty reduction.

    Social Transformation: Empowering Society at Large

    Beyond economics, women entrepreneurs serve as agents of social change. They:

    • Promote inclusive hiring and diversity in the workplace
    • Empower local communities through mentorship and leadership
    • Support education, healthcare, and environmental causes

    Their influence extends beyond business, fostering fairness, equity, and opportunity. Women entrepreneurship is not just growth—it’s transformation for a better world.

    4 Challenges Women Entrepreneurs Face

    1. Access to Funding

    Women entrepreneurs often struggle to secure capital compared to men. Studies reveal that only 2% of venture capital funding globally goes to women-led startups. Biases in investor perception and limited access to financial networks create a persistent funding gap.

    2. Gender Bias and Stereotyping

    Societal and cultural biases still challenge women in leadership. Female entrepreneurs are frequently not taken seriously, face greater scrutiny, and are expected to juggle business with traditional family roles, creating additional emotional and operational stress in their professional journey.

    3. Networking and Mentorship Gaps

    Influential business networks are often male-dominated, leaving women excluded from key opportunities. The lack of mentorship tailored to their unique challenges slows their growth. Stronger support systems and women-centric platforms are essential for navigating entrepreneurship effectively and confidently.

    4. Legal and Bureaucratic Hurdles

    In many regions, women face complex legal systems when registering businesses, obtaining licenses, or accessing property rights. Bureaucratic delays, patriarchal inheritance laws, and gendered barriers to ownership make it harder for women to establish and sustain enterprises, especially in developing countries.

    Success Stories: Women Who Broke the Ceiling

    1. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (India)

    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, founder of Biocon, is a pioneering entrepreneur who champions women empowerment by breaking industry norms and inspiring women to lead in science, business, and innovation.
    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (born 23 March 1953) is an Indian billionaire entrepreneur. She is the executive chairperson and founder of Biocon

    Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is the founder of Biocon, India’s pioneering biotechnology company. Starting in a male-dominated field with limited funding, she overcame skepticism and barriers to become one of India’s richest self-made women. Her innovation in affordable healthcare solutions continues to empower both science and society.

    2. Oprah Winfrey (USA)

    Oprah Winfrey American television personality, actress, and entrepreneur

    Born into poverty, Oprah Winfrey rose to become a global media icon and billionaire. Through The Oprah Winfrey Show, she built a brand based on empathy, authenticity, and empowerment. Her influence extends to philanthropy, publishing, and production, making her a true inspiration for women worldwide.

    3. Vandana Luthra (India)

    Vandana Luthra is the visionary behind VLCC, a wellness and beauty brand with a global presence. She began her journey in the early ’90s, challenging beauty norms and promoting holistic wellness. A Padma Shri awardee, she also mentors young women through various entrepreneurship development programs in India.

    4. Sara Blakely (USA)

    Sara Blakely didn’t build a business valued at $1.2 billion the typical way. While the Spanx founder sold a majority stake to private equity firm Blackstone last month—as traditional a source of capital as it gets—her road there has been her own

    Sara Blakely revolutionized the shapewear industry by founding Spanx with just $5,000 in savings. Without a background in fashion or business, she became the youngest self-made female billionaire. Her journey reflects the power of creative thinking, perseverance, and breaking stereotypes in male-dominated business sectors.

    5 Strategies for Breaking the Glass Ceiling

    1. Cultivate Confidence and a Growth Mindset

    Breaking the glass ceiling begins with internal empowerment. Women entrepreneurs must build self-confidence, develop leadership abilities, and adopt a growth mindset that welcomes learning from failure. Continuous personal development strengthens decision-making and risk-taking capabilities.

    2. Leverage Education and Skill Building

    Ongoing education in fields like finance, marketing, and technology equips women with the tools to innovate and stay competitive. Skill-building through online courses, workshops, and certifications ensures women stay ahead in dynamic industries.

    3. Build Networks and Seek Mentorship

    Strong professional networks open doors to partnerships, investments, and visibility. Joining women-led organizations, business forums, and mentorship circles helps foster support systems. Having mentors provides essential insights and encouragement for long-term growth.

    4. Push for Inclusive Policy and Ecosystems

    Systemic changes are necessary. Equal pay, gender-sensitive policies, and flexible work arrangements can empower women entrepreneurs. Governments and private sectors must prioritize inclusive funding and business development programs.

    5. Embrace Digital Platforms and Visibility

    Digital tools and social media enable women to showcase their businesses globally. Online presence builds brand authority and expands market access. Sharing success stories online helps normalize women’s leadership and breaks societal stereotypes.

    5 Indian Government Schemes that support Women Entrepreneurs

    1. Stand-Up India Scheme

    • Objective: Provides bank loans between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore to at least one woman entrepreneur per bank branch.
    • Focus: Supports women from SC/ST and general categories for setting up greenfield enterprises in manufacturing, services, or trading sectors.
    • Empowerment Impact: Encourages women to start new businesses with easier access to institutional funding.

    2. MUDRA Yojana (Micro Units Development & Refinance Agency)

    • Objective: Offers collateral-free loans to women entrepreneurs under three categories: Shishu (up to ₹50,000), Kishor (₹50,000–₹5 lakh), and Tarun (₹5–₹10 lakh).
    • Focus: Aims to fund small businesses, startups, and self-employed women in various sectors.
    • Empowerment Impact: Helps women in rural and urban areas to grow micro-enterprises and achieve financial independence.

    3. Mahila Coir Yojana

    • Objective: Provides financial assistance and training to women entrepreneurs in the coir industry.
    • Focus: Promotes skill development, raw material supply, and equipment subsidies to enhance productivity.
    • Empowerment Impact: Enables rural women to engage in value-added activities in coir production.

    4. TREAD Scheme (Trade Related Entrepreneurship Assistance and Development)

    • Objective: Offers grant assistance of up to 30% of the project cost to NGOs supporting women entrepreneurs.
    • Focus: Combines credit, training, and support services for low-income women to promote entrepreneurship.
    • Empowerment Impact: Builds financial literacy and vocational skills for sustainable livelihoods.

    5. Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) by NITI Aayog

    • Objective: A digital platform that brings together women entrepreneurs, mentors, investors, and support services.
    • Focus: Provides handholding, mentorship, incubation, funding support, and information access.
    • Empowerment Impact: Encourages networking, learning, and collaboration to boost women-led startups and businesses.

    Global Programs that support Women Entrepreneurs

    1. WEConnect International
      Connects women-owned businesses with global buyers to expand market access and certifications.
    2. Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women
      Provides women entrepreneurs with business education, mentoring, and access to capital worldwide.
    3. SheTrades (by ITC)
      Aims to connect 3 million women entrepreneurs to international markets by offering training, resources, and platforms.
    4. Cherie Blair Foundation for Women
      Offers mobile learning, mentoring, and business tools for women in low- and middle-income countries.
    5. Vital Voices Global Partnership
      Invests in women leaders with leadership development, mentorship, and strategic partnership programs.
    6. UN Women Empower Women Initiative
      Supports gender-inclusive policies, capacity building, and economic empowerment campaigns globally.

    These initiatives fuel women entrepreneurship, enabling inclusive economic growth.

    The Role of Media and Representation

    Media plays a vital role in shaping perceptions. Positive representation of women entrepreneurs in films, news, social media, and documentaries helps normalize female leadership and challenges outdated stereotypes. When women see role models who look like them, it inspires confidence and ambition. Platforms like blogs, podcasts, and YouTube give visibility to real, relatable journeys, making success seem more achievable. This powerful storytelling fosters a supportive ecosystem that encourages more women to pursue entrepreneurship.

    Future Trends: What’s Next for Women Entrepreneurs?

    1. Rise of Digital Womenpreneurs

    With growing internet penetration, more women are turning to online platforms for business. From Instagram shops to YouTube coaching, digital tools are lowering entry barriers.

    2. ESG and Purpose-Driven Businesses

    Women-led businesses are increasingly focusing on sustainability and ethics, aligning with global ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) goals.

    3. Inclusion in Tech and Innovation

    More women are entering tech innovation, leading AI startups, fintech solutions, and green tech ventures.

    How Men Can Support Women Entrepreneurs

    Mentorship & Sponsorship
    Men in leadership roles can actively mentor women, offering guidance, encouragement, and advocacy in decision-making spaces.

     Promote Equal Opportunities
    Ensure hiring, funding, and promotional practices are based on merit, not gender.

    Challenge Gender Bias
    Speak up against stereotypes and discriminatory behavior in workplaces and networks.

     Invest in Women-Led Startups
    Venture capitalists and investors can back women entrepreneurs with funding and business support.

     Share Networks
    Introduce women to influential business circles, clients, and collaborators.

    Support Work-Life Balance
    At home and in business, share responsibilities to help women focus on growth.

    Celebrate Success
    Publicly acknowledge and promote achievements of women entrepreneurs to inspire others.

    Breaking the glass ceiling is not just a women’s issue—it’s a societal priority.

    Conclusion: The Path Forward

    Women entrepreneurs are not just breaking barriers—they are building new realities. Through resilience, innovation, and collaboration, they are driving economic growth, creating jobs, and promoting equality. To continue this momentum, we must nurture ecosystems that support women’s ambitions, invest in their ideas, and celebrate their successes.

    Empowering women entrepreneurs is more than a policy goal. It’s a commitment to a fairer, stronger, and happier world for everyone.