Only 3% of women entrepreneurs get funding in India, finds report

Optimistically, the paper found that the sample is a diverse batch of educated women entrepreneurs with 14% holding graduate degrees and 55% having pursued higher education, indicating a wide range of professional backgrounds. However, due to many other responsibilities, many entrepreneurs are between the age group of 30 and 60 years, underscoring that women have late success.

“There is also a noticeable trend that cities deemed safer for women see a higher propensity for them to take entrepreneurial risks and establish businesses. Enhancing women’s safety can directly contribute to fostering a more vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem,” suggested the 52-page report.

There is an urgent need to address and create gender-responsive policies for Tier-2 and 3 cities which includes education, capital, skill development and strong community networks convergence for an inclusive and prosperous entrepreneurial landscape in the country.

“Fostering female entrepreneurship in Tier 2 cities can be a gamechanger. The ecosystem is primed, and the diverse range of businesses women are currently running shows promise. In addition to being groomed locally, female talent also moves into these cities as part of marriage-related migration. As more women acquire higher education, they are ready to consider entrepreneurial careers which need to be encouraged,” concluded the report.