Women Startup Stories’ Post

As the founder and Managing Partner of Rukam Capital one of the few solo general partners in venture capital, Archana Jahagirdar has carved out a niche in a male-dominated industry, becoming a trailblazer among women founders in India and globally. Her journey is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and the power of belief in creating lasting impact. Her contributions to the startup ecosystem have not gone unnoticed. In recognition of her leadership, she was nominated to the National Startup Advisory Council (NSAC), a prestigious committee chaired by Hon'ble Cabinet Minister Shri Piyush Goyal. In 2022, Mint honored her as one of the '100 Women Entrepreneurs Building and Shaping India.' The following year, Inc42 named her among the 41 women torchbearers of India's startup investment space. These accolades reflect not only her success but also her role as a driving force behind the growth of the entrepreneurial landscape in India. Before the inception of Rukam Capital, she honed her skills in early-stage investing, deal sourcing, and setting up accelerators, making significant contributions through her work with the Indian Angel Network. Brands like Burger Singh benefited from her expertise, but her vision extended far beyond individual success stories. She saw the immense potential in India’s startup ecosystem, a belief that inspired her to launch Rukam Capital in 2019. Today, Rukam Capital stands as a beacon for startups, having invested in 18 companies across diverse sectors, including Sleepy Owl, GoDesi, BECO, Pilgrim, and more. Recently, she launched Rukam Sitara, a 100 Cr tech fund aimed at unlocking the immense potential within India's tech landscape. Her ambition is clear: to energize the startup ecosystem, offering opportunities for founders, investors, and talent to collaborate and innovate at an unprecedented scale. She has been instrumental in organizing India's licensed version of Slush Helsinki, New Delhi Slush'd, and co-led the Indian startup delegation at Latitude 59, Estonia. Her commitment to fostering community within the startup ecosystem is further exemplified by her founding of Bootstrap Incubation and Advisory Foundation, a not-for-profit dedicated to bringing together stakeholders to share knowledge, collaborate, and create lasting change. At Rukam Capital, the focus is on investing in early-stage consumer products and services with exceptional growth potential. The firm combines innovation with a mission-driven approach, proving that investments with purpose can deliver substantial returns. Her journey reflects not just the success of a venture capitalist but the emergence of a visionary determined to transform India's entrepreneurial landscape, creating a ripple effect of positive change for generations to come.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #venturecapital #entrepreneur #technology #innovation #d2c #growth #consulting #strategy

Smriti Tomar is on a mission to transform the way India’s millennials think about money. As the founder and CEO of Stack Wealth she is driven by a vision to make financial planning accessible and affordable for the 440 million millennials who contribute to 70% of the country’s household income. For Smriti, this isn’t just a business; it’s a revolution aimed at helping young Indians achieve true financial security and freedom. Smriti’s journey to Stack wealth began in the world of data analytics, where she honed her skills at EXL Services, focusing on the overseas finance and banking sectors, particularly Citibank in Latin America. It was here that she first recognized the glaring gap in financial management tools available to the average Indian investor. She saw how complex and exclusive wealth-building strategies were reserved for the elite, leaving everyday people with limited options that barely kept pace with inflation. Determined to change this, Smriti embarked on a path to create Stack Wealth, a modern wealth management platform designed from the ground up to democratize financial planning. Stack empowers retail investors by offering expert-managed investment strategies, diversified asset classes, and personalized portfolio management—all in an effortless and automated manner. With features like autopilot savings, personalized investment rules, and even passive income opportunities through the Stack Card, Smriti’s platform is a game-changer for those looking to build their wealth without the steep learning curve. But Smriti’s vision doesn’t stop at financial technology. She’s passionate about fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity, especially when it comes to female entrepreneurship. Outside of her work at Stack, she loves discussing startups, marketing, culture, fitness, and the challenges and triumphs of women in business. With a team of experts in finance, AI, data science, engineering, and design, Stack Finance is not just another app—it’s the future of wealth management in India. Smriti and her team have over 25 years of experience managing assets worth over $10,000 crore for more than a million investors. By blending cutting-edge technology with high-end investing expertise, Smriti has created a digital wealth management solution that caters to every investor, making premium financial strategies accessible to all. Smriti Tomar’s story is one of vision, determination, and a relentless drive to break down barriers. Through Stack wealth, she’s not just building a company; she’s building a movement towards financial empowerment for India’s millennials.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #startup #womenfounder #entrepreneur #technology #innovation

Akanksha Priyadarshini the Co-Founder and CEO of Aurassure, she is spearheading a transformative approach to combating pollution. Aurassure is a pioneering startup that utilizes an IoT-enabled, intelligent system to monitor and analyze environmental conditions. By delivering real-time data and forecasts on air pollution, weather anomalies, and natural disasters, Aurassure empowers communities to build resilience against climate change and aids governments in making sustainable decisions. Akanksha's journey began in a defense family, with her childhood spanning from the tree-lined streets of Ludhiana to the bustling cities of Pune and Siliguri, eventually leading her to Bhubaneshwar. Despite her love for nature, she was acutely aware of the increasing pollution in the air. This awareness deepened during her BTech at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela, where the pollution from the nearby steel plant was so severe it affected her family's health and many of her peers. Driven by a desire to find practical solutions, Akanksha's academic curiosity evolved into a mission. While working with Phoenix Robotics, she encountered the challenge of costly pollution control solutions for small industries. This experience inspired her to develop more affordable and effective alternatives. In 2022, Akanksha founded Aurassure with a vision to bridge the information gap between citizens and policymakers. The company’s innovative system uses IoT technology to monitor air quality, dust levels, and weather parameters, providing comprehensive data for disaster management and environmental protection. Aurassure's breakthrough came when Google partnered with them, integrating their technology with satellite-based data to enhance forecasting accuracy. This collaboration enabled Aurassure to develop a hyper-local air quality monitoring system, offering up to 95% accuracy in weather predictions and detailed pollution insights. The system now supports over 150 cities across India, including Bhubaneshwar, Chennai, Rajkot, Aurangabad, and Navi Mumbai. The company’s success attracted significant investment from Unicorn Ventures India, which provided Rs 4 crore in seed funding. This support is being used to expand Aurassure’s data analytics capabilities, team, and market reach, with plans to deploy 1000 devices in eight additional cities and eventually extend operations to Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe. Aurassure’s mission is to enhance urban livability by providing actionable data and fostering responsible climate actions. Aurassure has already made strides in improving air quality monitoring with devices like Aurassure Care and Aurassure Trust, addressing both indoor and outdoor environmental concerns.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #startup #womenfounder #entrepreneur #climatechange #weathermonitoring #AI #pollutioncontrol #womeninbusiness #technology #innovation

Meet Sonalika Pawar the pioneering CEO of Bold and Beyond a name that's become synonymous with innovation and excellence in the PR and marketing arena. In her transformative role, Sonalika has catapulted what was once Meraki Creative Inc. into a powerhouse of creativity and strategy, elevating it to new heights of success. Under Sonalika’s visionary leadership, Bold & Beyond has grown from a modest team of 2-3 to a formidable 40-member squad, specialized across diverse industry verticals. This dynamic agency has forged over 200 prestigious partnerships with leading brands, such as Puma, BMW, Heineken, and The Leela Palace Bengaluru, among others. With an impressive 300% annual growth rate since its inception, Bold & Beyond has redefined the landscape of PR and marketing. Sonalika’s journey is one of audacious dreams and relentless perseverance. She launched Bold & Beyond with nothing but a bold vision and a few dedicated team members, working from cafes before securing a dedicated office space within six months. Her leadership philosophy goes beyond achieving business success. It’s about fostering a culture of innovation, empowering her team, and championing diversity. When faced with setbacks, Sonalika tackled them head-on. The transition to data-driven strategies, national market expansion, and the complexities of remote work posed significant challenges. Yet, she navigated these hurdles with resilience and adaptability, implementing balanced policies that maintain team cohesion while embracing flexibility. Sonalika’s success is also attributed to her patience, resilience, and her knack for connecting with people. These qualities, combined with the unwavering support from her husband, Shylesh, and her dedicated team, have been the bedrock of her journey. Each milestone reached is a shared triumph, woven together by a network of support and shared dreams. As she continues to chart Bold & Beyond’s course, Sonalika’s favorite quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson resonates deeply: “Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” Currently, Bold & Beyond is embarking on an exciting new chapter with Mysore Saree Udyog (MSU), a renowned brand celebrated for its cultural heritage. This partnership aims to blend tradition with modern innovation through strategic digital, creative, and influencer marketing campaigns. By spotlighting MSU's rich heritage and dynamic apparel, Bold & Beyond is set to amplify the brand’s presence both locally and globally. In Sonalika Pawar, we see a leader who not only drives success but also embodies the spirit of bold innovation and authentic leadership. Her journey is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with vision, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #startup #womenfounder #entrepreneur #womeninbusiness

Introducing the visionary sisters behind Poshte: CA Jubilee Raina Saraf and Sarah Raina With a profound commitment to holistic well-being, these remarkable women have turned their dreams into reality through their homegrown brand. Jubilee Raina, a mother of two and a Chartered Accountant, brings a calm and positive demeanor to her roles as an investor and founding member of Poshte. Sarah Raina, with 15 years of experience in the luxury hospitality and an MBA in Marketing from United Kingdom, complements her sister’s strengths with her enthusiasm, creativity, and meticulous approach. Together, the sisters have crafted Poshte in 2022 as a response to the modern need for enduring well-being. Their mission goes beyond beauty as Poshte embodies a commitment to nature derived holistic well-being. The name ‘Poshte’ reflects the Kashmiri tradition of wishing abundance for loved ones, and this ethos guides the sisters’ efforts to enrich the lives of their customers, the environment, and society. They take pride in offering nature-derived, sustainable productsthat are authentic, toxin-free, and effective, blending the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with the soothing benefits of Aromatherapy. The duo have woven sustainability into the fabric of Poshte and they support tree plantation in the Kashmir valley with Grow-Trees, contributing to rural employment and environmental well-being. Poshte’s commitment to well-being has been recognized in prominent publications such as Outlook, Times Of India, India Today, and The Telegraph. Additionally, the founders were honored as part of Fox Story India's 100 Inspiring Women 2023. Jubilee and Sarah Raina’s journey with Poshte is a testament to their unwavering commitment to creating a brand that prioritizes well-being in every sense.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #startup #womenfounder #entrepreneur #cosmetic #ayurveda

In the vibrant world of fashion, the name Saaki is making waves. Co-founded by actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu and former Miss India, Sushruthi Krishna this ethnic wear label burst onto the scene in 2020 with a vision that blends elegance and accessibility. From its humble beginnings to becoming a global sensation, Saaki represents a unique fusion of modern sophistication and traditional charm. Their partnership began when a mutual acquaintance introduced them, each seeking not just a business venture but a chance to build a brand with lasting impact. Their shared vision was to democratize ethnic wear—offering premium quality at affordable prices in a market that was largely fragmented and priced beyond reach for many. Sushruthi reflects on their initial days, noting how their journey was punctuated by the global pandemic. “We launched Saaki just as the world was entering lockdown,” she recounts. “It was a challenge, but we used that time to understand the evolving market and harness the rise of direct-to-consumer models. This strategic pause helped us refine our approach and align with new consumer trends.” In just two years, Saaki has grown into a multi-crore enterprise with an international footprint. The brand’s success is largely attributed to its organic growth—powered by Samantha and Sushruthi’s genuine love for their creations. “We haven’t spent on social media ads,” Sushruthi notes. “Our customers see us wearing Saaki and that drives brand recognition.” Saaki’s range includes kurtas, sarees, and contemporary ethnic wear, all priced between Rs 2,300 and Rs 2,800. Like any entrepreneurial journey, Saaki faced challenges—particularly with supply chain management. “Managing production across different regions has been tough,” Sushruthi admits. “We’re exploring the possibility of establishing a dedicated production unit to streamline our operations.” Despite these hurdles, Saaki’s international expansion is thriving. With a presence in over 15 countries, including the US, UK, and Australia, the brand is tapping into the global Indian diaspora. “Our goal is to ‘make in India for the world,’” Sushruthi says. “The Indian diaspora abroad is a significant market, and we aim to cater to their fashion needs.” Saaki’s future plans include diversifying into new categories like kids’ wear and home decor. The brand’s growth strategy is focused on enhancing customer engagement, expanding distribution, and maintaining its core values of accessibility and style. In this golden era of women entrepreneurship, Saaki stands as a beacon of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. With its commitment to style, comfort, and accessibility, Saaki is not just a brand but a movement—empowering women and celebrating the timeless beauty of ethnic wear on a global stage.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup #entrepreneur #fashion #d2c #ethnicwear

In the evolving world of education, Riya Upreti stands as a beacon of innovation and inspiration. As the visionary CEO and Founder of #Fobet, Upreti is reshaping the landscape of psychology education with an ambitious mission: to make high-quality psychological knowledge universally accessible from the comfort of one’s home. Launched in May 2020 amidst the tumultuous backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fobet emerged as a response to the heightened demand for mental health resources and education. Recognizing the urgent need for accessible psychological support, Upreti created a platform designed not just to educate but to empower. Her goal was clear: to democratize psychology education and make it available to anyone, regardless of location or background. At the heart of Fobet’s mission is a commitment to inclusivity and support. Unlike traditional ed-tech platforms that offer one-off courses, Fobet focuses on ongoing mentorship and certification. Budding psychologists receive live guidance from India’s top therapists and benefit from internationally recognized certifications, propelling their careers to new heights. Regular evaluations, interactive learning tools, and real-time feedback mechanisms ensure a personalized and engaging educational journey. Embracing technological advancements, Fobet utilizes AI-driven tools such as "ManyChat" and WhatsApp API's "Wati" to streamline communication and track progress. This innovative approach allows for customized learning experiences and real-time support, making education both engaging and effective. Through these digital tools, Fobet delivers tailored content and fosters a dynamic learning environment. Upreti’s leadership goes beyond traditional educational models. She believes in the vital role of ed-tech influencers in bridging technology with education, promoting inclusivity, and addressing challenges within the sector. Her advocacy for continuous learning and collaboration underscores the importance of staying current with the latest research and methodologies, ensuring that educators are equipped to make a meaningful impact. Riya Upreti's role as the driving force behind Fobet is a testament to her unwavering dedication to making education accessible and impactful. Her pioneering efforts have not only transformed how psychological education is delivered but also set a new standard for inclusivity and support in the field. As Fobet continues to inspire and shape the future of education, Upreti’s legacy stands as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of accessible learning. In an ever-evolving world, Riya Upreti’s vision and leadership provide a roadmap for others to follow, demonstrating that with innovation and dedication, barriers to education can be dismantled, and knowledge can become a universal asset.Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #startup #womenfounder #entrepreneur #psycologyeducation #healthtech

Chinu Kala story is a dazzling testament to the power of dreams and determination. Starting with just Rs 300 and the clothes on her back, Chinu's journey from a 15-year-old runaway to the founder of a Rs 35 crore jewellery empire is nothing short of extraordinary. At 15, Chinu left her home in Nala Sopara after a family dispute, carrying only a few belongings and a small amount of money. Arriving in Mumbai with nothing but ambition, she faced a world that could have easily overwhelmed her. She spent her first night at a railway station, unsure of her next steps, but her spirit remained unbroken. Her initial days were a struggle, making a meager Rs 20 a day as a door-to-door salesgirl selling coasters and knives. Chinu lived in a crowded dormitory and worked multiple odd jobs, including as a waitress and receptionist. Her perseverance saw her through these early hardships, and she soon landed a job as a telemarketing executive at Tata Communications in Mumbai. There, she met Amit Kala, her future husband, who would become a key supporter in her entrepreneurial journey. Married in 2004 and moving to Bengaluru, Chinu’s life took a significant turn. Her experience in the Gladrags Mrs. India pageant in 2006, where she was a finalist, sparked her fascination with the impact of jewellery on personal style. Fueled by her newfound passion, she decided to dive into the jewellery industry. In 2014, Chinu launched Rubans Accessories with just Rs 3 lakh and a 36-square-foot store at Phoenix Mall in Bengaluru. Her keen eye for fashion, coupled with a deep understanding of customer needs, allowed Rubans to flourish. Her unique designs quickly gained popularity, and the brand expanded its reach, opening new stores in various cities. Rubans Accessories transformed from a humble kiosk to a flourishing business. By 2018, the brand operated five stores and had a turnover of Rs 3.34 crore. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinu adapted to the changing landscape by pivoting to e-commerce, which led to a surge in sales and helped solidify the brand’s position in the market. Today, Rubans Accessories stands as a beacon of success in the fashion jewellery industry. The brand’s growth is a tribute to Chinu’s unyielding spirit and innovative approach. Rubans, now generating Rs 30 crore in revenue, is targeting a turnover of Rs 140 crore by 2024. Chinu Kala’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, with resilience, passion, and a bit of creativity, dreams can indeed come true. From a young girl with little more than hope, Chinu has built a vibrant empire that resonates with style and success, inspiring countless others to follow their own dreams. Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #womenfounder #startup

In the bustling heart of Bengaluru, two visionary sisters, Mala Dhawan and sonia dhawan embarked on a transformative journey that bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern markets. Their brainchild, A Hundred Hands was born from a moment of clarity after years of shaping brands in the corporate world. The seed for this non-profit was planted when Mala, while helping a group of women farmers introduce their products to urban consumers, realized the untapped potential of artisans who lacked exposure and branding skills. This revelation led to the creation of A Hundred Hands in 2010, an organization dedicated to reviving and supporting handmade crafts and empowering artisans to become self-sufficient. Today, A Hundred Hands supports over 150 craft clusters across India, spanning 150 different crafts. Each craft is directly created by artisans, eliminating middlemen and ensuring that the creators earn a fair wage for their work. The core mission of A Hundred Hands is to help artisans establish their brands, enhance their marketing strategies, and directly connect with consumers, thereby fostering a sustainable and equitable ecosystem. The journey began with the Annual Handmade Collective, a vibrant bazaar that provided artisans with much-needed visibility. However, as the collective grew, artisans sought more than just exposure; they desired ongoing support in branding, design, and market reach. Recognizing this need, A Hundred Hands expanded its offerings, including a membership program that helps artisans improve their craft and business skills. For many artisans, initiatives by A Hundred Hands account for nearly 40 percent of their annual sales, highlighting the organization’s pivotal role in their success. A Hundred Hands remains true to its founding principles by being commission-free and ensuring that 100 percent of the earnings go back to the artisans. However, to sustain and expand its impact, the organization seeks funding for capacity building, a central space, and corporate support through CSR initiatives. Volunteers, particularly designers and filmmakers, are also encouraged to contribute their expertise. Among its innovative projects is the ME to WE initiative, which pairs artisans from different crafts to create collaborative products, fostering cross-craft learning and creativity. Additionally, the Recycled Denim project, which began as a simple idea to repurpose old jeans, now supports patients undergoing treatment at NIMHANS and has been extended to other NGOs and self-help groups. As Mala Dhawan puts it, “Our goal is to empower artisans not just to survive but to thrive, by giving them the tools to tell their stories and share their creations with the world.”Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #startup #womenfounder #entrepreneur #sustainability #handmade

Indrani Sarma ‘s story is one of evolution, courage, and a deep commitment to promoting well-being through better dietary choices. From a distinguished career in marketing to pioneering a transformative food brand, Indrani’s path is a testament to the power of passion and innovation. With nearly two decades of experience in branding and marketing across sectors like retail, telecom, and media, Indrani Sarma was no stranger to the art of strategic thinking and brand development. Her career was marked by her ability to craft impactful marketing strategies and shape successful brands. However, her journey took a significant turn when she chose to channel her expertise into something profoundly personal and meaningful. The seed for this transformation was planted in her own kitchen. Motivated by a desire to improve her family’s health, particularly her mother’s, Indrani embarked on a quest to replace traditional ingredients with healthier alternatives. This quest led her to discover the incredible potential of millets—ancient grains rich in nutrients and flavor. What started as a personal mission soon blossomed into a groundbreaking business endeavor. Thus, Indulgence was born. This innovative brand aims to revolutionize dietary habits by integrating nutrient-dense millets into everyday meals. INDULGENCE is not just a brand; it is a movement towards healthier living and a balanced lifestyle. By focusing on natural, handcrafted products free from preservatives and chemicals, Indrani’s vision is to offer consumers guilt-free indulgence without compromising on taste or health. INDULGENCE's product range includes a variety of ready-to-cook meals, cakes, and desserts—all crafted from millets and other wholesome ingredients. From Millet Masala Pulao and Jowar Upma to gluten-free millet pasta and nutrient-rich jams, each product is a testament to the power of millets and the dedication to clean, wholesome food. These offerings are designed to fit seamlessly into busy lives, providing healthy alternatives that align with modern dietary needs. The brand’s commitment to quality and nutrition stands out in a market saturated with less healthy options. INDULGENCE embraces traditional Indian grains like finger millet and sorghum while incorporating superfoods like quinoa. Each product is crafted to support a balanced diet and cater to various dietary needs, including gluten intolerance and diabetes. Indrani Sarma’s journey from a corporate leader to a passionate entrepreneur is a powerful example of how one can blend professional expertise with personal passion to make a significant impact. Through INDULGENCE, she is not just offering healthier food choices but also championing a lifestyle that prioritizes well-being and nourishment. INDULGENCE where each product is a step towards a healthier, more vibrant you. Madhuri Awande Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dwVWAA33 #startup #womenfounder #entrepreneur #healthyfood