Empowering Women in Tech: Overcoming Challenges and Fostering Leadership
Women-led tech startups in India and globally face a myriad of challenges that stem from systemic biases, limited access to resources, and cultural barriers. Despite these obstacles, empowering women entrepreneurs and women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields is crucial for fostering innovation, diversity, and inclusive growth. In India’s startup ecosystem—as of April 20, 2023, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recognised 98,119 entities as startups—women-led startups represent 18%, marking an increase from 10% in 2017 to 18% in 2022. The percentage of women-led unicorns increased from 8% to 17%. On the other hand, women-owned micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) account for approximately 20%.
One of the primary challenges faced by women-led tech startups is the gender gap in access to funding and investment opportunities. Studies reveal that women entrepreneurs receive significantly less funding compared to their male counterparts, leading to limited scalability and growth potential for their startups. Additionally, cultural biases and stereotypes often undermine the credibility and capabilities of women entrepreneurs, making it challenging to navigate male-dominated tech ecosystems.
Another challenge is the lack of mentorship and support networks specifically tailored for women in tech. Women often struggle to find role models and mentors who can provide guidance, networking opportunities, and valuable insights into navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship and STEM careers. This lack of mentorship and support can hinder career advancement and entrepreneurial success for women in the tech industry.
To empower women entrepreneurs and women in STEM, it is imperative to adopt comprehensive strategies that address these challenges. Providing access to funding opportunities and investment networks specifically focused on women-led startups can bridge the funding gap and unlock growth potential. Creating mentorship programs, networking forums, and leadership development initiatives tailored for women in tech can also foster a supportive ecosystem that nurtures talent and promotes career advancement.
As one of the top engineering colleges in India, we are committed to empowering women to become leaders in technology through our inclusive programs, mentorship initiatives, and supportive environment. Our Women in Technology (WiT) program offers mentorship, networking, and skill-building opportunities tailored for women pursuing STEM careers. We provide access to industry experts, internships, and leadership workshops to equip women with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive in the tech industry. Empowering women entrepreneurs and women in STEM is not only essential for driving innovation and diversity but also for creating a more inclusive and equitable tech ecosystem. Through targeted initiatives, mentorship, and support, we can overcome challenges and enable women to unleash their full potential as leaders and changemakers in technology.