Top 5 Women Entrepreneurs in India

The Government of India is actively working to boost the number of women entrepreneurs by introducing a range of supportive schemes. One standout initiative in this effort is the Stand-up India Scheme, specifically designed to empower women to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Through this scheme, the government aims to provide women with the tools and resources they need to start and grow their businesses, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic business landscape.

In recent years, the Indian startup ecosystem has witnessed a remarkable surge in women entrepreneurs making their mark. This encouraging trend has caught the attention of venture capitalists, who are increasingly backing women-led ventures. As a result, 2024 saw an impressive boost in funding for female-led startups, with investments soaring by over 90%.

According to Inc42’s Indian Startup Funding Report 2024, women-led startups raised nearly $930 million last year, marking a significant leap from the $480 million raised in 2023. This translates to a staggering 93.75% year-on-year growth, underscoring the growing confidence in women-driven enterprises.

Leading the charge, the fintech sector emerged as the top industry for women-led startups, securing 28.7% of the total funding. In 2024 alone, these innovative fintech ventures raised $266.91 million across 17 deals, showcasing the incredible potential and drive of women entrepreneurs in this dynamic space.

List of Top 5 Women Entrepreneurs in India

In recent years, India has seen an incredible surge in female entrepreneurs breaking barriers and leading the charge in various industries. These women are not only transforming their sectors but also inspiring countless others to follow their dreams. Let’s dive into the stories of five remarkable women making waves in the Indian business landscape:

Falguni Nayar

Founder & CEO, Nykaa

Falguni Nayar took a leap of faith when she left her successful career in investment banking to start Nykaa in 2012. Today, it’s one of India’s leading beauty and wellness platforms. With a catalog of over 1,500 brands, Nykaa has become a household name, both online and through its expanding network of physical stores. Falguni’s journey from the boardroom to the beauty industry has made her one of the richest self-made women in India, a testament to her vision and tenacity.

Neha Bansal

Co-founder, Zivame

Neha Bansal saw a gap in the market for a comfortable and private lingerie shopping experience, and she set out to fill it with Zivame in 2011. Her bold move sparked a revolution in how women shop for lingerie in India, making it more accessible and less taboo. Neha’s commitment to improving the customer experience has turned Zivame into a trusted brand, expanding its range and continuing to lead in the industry.

Ruchi Kalra

Co-founder, The Ayurveda Co (T.A.C)

Ruchi Kalra’s passion for natural wellness led her to co-found The Ayurveda Co, focusing on Ayurvedic personal care products. By blending traditional wisdom with modern sensibilities, Ruchi has built a brand that resonates with today’s health-conscious consumers. T.A.C’s success lies in its dedication to sustainability and holistic well-being, making it a favorite among those seeking natural alternatives.

Kavitha Subramanian

Founder, SankalpTaru

Kavitha Subramanian is on a mission to make a difference, one tree at a time. Her organization, SankalpTaru, is at the forefront of environmental conservation in India, driving reforestation and sustainability initiatives. Through her leadership, thousands of trees have been planted, and communities have been educated about the importance of protecting our planet. Kavitha’s work is a powerful reminder of how business can be a force for good.

Ghazal Alagh

Co-founder, Mamaearth

Ghazal Alagh co-founded Mamaearth in 2016 with a simple goal: to offer safe, toxin-free personal care products for families. Her innovative approach to marketing and unwavering commitment to quality quickly propelled Mamaearth to unicorn status. Today, it’s synonymous with eco-friendly living, boasting a loyal customer base that trusts in its promise of purity and care.

Conclusion

These trailblazing women showcase resilience, creativity, and leadership, carving a path for future generations of female entrepreneurs in India. Their stories are not just about business success but also about the profound impact women are making on India’s economy and society. Let their journeys inspire you to dream big and make a difference!