The entrepreneurial world is no longer a male-dominated space—today, women are not only entering the arena but excelling, breaking barriers, and establishing legacies that will inspire generations to come. From startups born in small living rooms to businesses that make global impacts, women entrepreneurs are rewriting the rules and transforming industries.
Despite the progress, women continue to face significant challenges when entering male-dominated fields. From lack of access to funding to societal expectations of balancing family and career, women often navigate a landscape filled with hurdles. Yet, across the globe, women are finding innovative ways to overcome these obstacles, build successful businesses, and make an enduring impact.
The purpose of this article is to shed light on the incredible rise of women entrepreneurs—individuals who, against the odds, are creating lasting businesses that make a difference, creating businesses with a purpose that goes beyond profits. From stories of hardship and resilience to discussions on digital transformation and networking, this article provides both inspiration and practical advice for current and future women entrepreneurs.
In this article, I’ll share my own entrepreneurial journey—starting from a small rural town in India to leading a business that contributes to national efforts such as the COVID-19 response.
Overcoming Challenges in Male-Dominated Industries
Starting a business as a woman can seem daunting, especially when entering fields dominated by men, such as engineering, tech, or finance. Women in these industries often find themselves fighting against gender bias, lack of mentorship, and limited access to resources. Yet, these challenges often serve as the driving force behind their success.
My own journey began in the manufacturing industry, where I spent eight years starting as a Management Trainee to country head for production planning and control . I still remember the question I was asked during my interview: “Where do you see yourself in five years?” I answered confidently, “I want to employ at least five people.” This simple response marked the moment when I realized my true entrepreneurial calling. The realization was not immediate, but it sparked a chain of events that led to the creation of my own business.
Entrepreneurship is rarely about instant success. Often, it’s about starting with limited resources and turning adversity into opportunity. For me, the turning point came when my husband had a major accident. With a young child to care for and a husband who needed full-time care, I found myself at a crossroads. I needed a flexible career that would allow me to balance both my personal and professional responsibilities.
That was when we decided to take the plunge and start a business. Coming from a family that didn’t have a business background, we faced multiple hurdles—no capital, no experience, and the pressure of operating in a male-dominated field. I started small, from the balcony of our 2BHK apartment. To fund the business, I even sold my jewellery. Despite these challenges, we remained committed to our vision of providing quality solutions with our brand promise, *“Solutions for Sure.”*
Our business, which initially operated out of a tiny space, is now thriving with over 4000 square feet of office space I have scaled through sheer perseverance, and the lessons I have learned along the way have taught me that success is rooted in hard work, dedication, and a never-give-up attitude.
Women entrepreneur – A empathetic leader
One of the most powerful aspects of being a woman entrepreneur is the ability to lead and create change. I think we got leadership in inheritance right from our goddess Maa Durga to Aausaheb Jijamata to respected president Draupadi Murmuli Women are born with leadership skills, creative thinking and, the strategic mindset. Which our mothers, grandmothers were displaying in daily life. While there are still fewer women in leadership roles compared to men, the tide is shifting. Women are now making their mark as leaders, not just in small businesses but also in larger corporations and industries that were once inaccessible.
Leadership is about more than just being at the top—it’s about shaping culture, driving innovation, and creating opportunities for others. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work with a passionate and dedicated team. Their success is my success. And watching them grow has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. The leadership calls for courageous decisions , it was difficult decision when we decided to establish our own research lab to train students to give them hands on experience which will increase their employability and industry will also get trained man power cause that time our company turnover was just 3 Cr. and investment required was 1.2 Cr, but now when I look back I feel proud I took that call, which enabled so many students to pursue their dream career.
Women are increasingly bringing empathy, collaborative leadership styles, and community-driven initiatives into the workplace. This shift is allowing businesses to thrive, not only economically but also in their social impact. It’s no longer just about the bottom line—it’s about creating businesses that value people, sustainability, and long-term goals.
The Role of Digital Transformation and Networking
The digital revolution has democratized entrepreneurship. Women now have the tools and platforms to run businesses from anywhere, reach global markets, and build powerful brands without being held back by geographic or financial constraints. Social media, e-commerce platforms, and digital marketing are empowering women to scale their businesses faster than ever before.We have seen and experienced this during Covid period lots of homemaker started selling home cooked food , creative items , clothing on Whats app ,this business model is becoming more popular , convenient and economical . Happy that so many homemakers are getting benefited from this.
For me, adopting digital tools has been a game-changer. It has allowed us to reach a broader customer base, streamline operations, and stay competitive. Moreover, women entrepreneurs now have access to online communities and networks that provide the support, mentorship, and resources they need to grow. I am so very grateful to MCCIA for providing this support to women entrepreneurs.
Social Impact and Women Empowering Other Women
As an entrepreneur, the power to create positive social change is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the journey. Through our business, we’ve had the opportunity to contribute to the community, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. We worked with the National Institute of Virology to provide testing kits during a critical time, supporting both our customers and the nation’s efforts to combat the virus.
As an entrepreneur, the power to create positive social change is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the journey. Through our business, we’ve had the opportunity to contribute to the community, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. We worked with the National Institute of Virology to provide testing kits during a critical time, supporting both our customers and the nation’s efforts to combat the virus.
The social impact of women-led businesses extends beyond profits; it’s about how they uplift others. Many women entrepreneurs are focused not just on growing their businesses, but also on improving their communities, creating jobs, and empowering others to follow their lead.
My own journey—from a small rural town in Ahmadnagar to running a thriving business that has supported national efforts during the pandemic—has been filled with challenges and triumphs. The most important lesson I’ve learned is that resilience, purpose, and a willingness to take risks are the foundation of any successful business.
Women entrepreneurs are not just changing industries—they are changing the world. By embracing technology, building strong networks, and staying true to their values and purpose, they are creating a ripple effect that will empower future generations of women. When I was kid I always used to hear from elders , life of a woman is just चूल आणि मूल but now it is "चूल,मूल, घर , कंपनी ,देश आणि जग ." खऱ्या अर्थाने आम्ही “वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम् “ही संकल्पना जगतोय.
To all the aspiring women entrepreneurs out there, remember that your journey may be challenging, but it will be worth it. Stay committed, stay resilient, and above all, never stop believing in your ability to make a difference. The world is waiting for the legacy you are building.
Vaishali Sharma Director Nirav Biosolutions Pvt Ltd Pune