EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Entrepreneurship amongst women has been a recent concern. Women have become aware of
their existence their rights and their work situation. However, women of the middle class are not
too eager to alter their role in fear of social backlash. The progress is more visible among upper
class families in urban cities.
This research study focuses on Women entrepreneur. Any understanding of Indian women, of
their identity, and especially of their role taking and breaking new paths, will be incomplete
without a walk down the corridors of Indian history where women have paused, lived and
internalized various role models. Some have taken entrepreneurship roles where some have
opted for employment, some in entertainment field and some for leadership roles while millions
of others have taken the role of ideal stereotyped social roles.
The study has been conducted to know how transformation has occurred in the women roles in
entrepreneurial world. Also the study talks about the status of women entrepreneurs and the
problems faced by them when they ventured out to carve their own niche in the competitive
world of business environment.
Women owned businesses are highly increasing in the economies of almost all countries. The
hidden entrepreneurial potentials of women have gradually been changing with the growing
sensitivity to the role and economic status in the society. Skill, knowledge and adaptability in
business are the main reasons for women to emerge into business ventures. Women
Entrepreneur' is a person who accepts challenging role to meet her personal needs and become
economically independent. A strong desire to do something positive is an inbuilt quality of
entrepreneurial women, who is capable of contributing values in both family and social life. With
the advent of media, women are aware of their own traits, rights and also the work situations.
The glass ceilings are shattered and women are found indulged in every line of business from
papad to power cables. The challenges and opportunities provided to the women of digital era are
growing rapidly that the job seekers are turning into job creators. They are flourishing as
designers, interior decorators, exporters, publishers, garment manufacturers and still exploring
new avenues of economic participation. In India, although women constitute the majority of the
total population, the entrepreneurial world is still a male dominated one. Women in advanced
nations are recognized and are more prominent in the business world. But the

1
 INDEX
SR. PAGE
NO NO

1 INTRODUCTION 4

2 6

3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY 7

4 8

5 GROWTH OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN INDIA 10

6 13

7 ROLE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN ECONOMIC 16

DEVELOPMENT

8 20

9 PROBLEMS OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN INDIA 21

10 IMPORTANCE OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN 24

INDIA

11 STEPS TAKEN BY GOVERNMENT TO WOMEN 25

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

12 27

13 OPPORTUNITIES TO INDIAN WOMEN 28

ENTREPRENEURS

2
14 29

15 9 QUALITIES OF REMARKABLE ENTREPRENEURS 31

16 34

17 WHAT MAKES WOMEN SO SUCCESSFUL IN THE 35

INDIAN BANKING INDUSTRY

18 BANK SCHEMES FOR FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS 37

19 40

20 43

21 SUCCESSFUL WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN INDIA 46

22 FINDINGS 49

23 51

24 53

25 55

26 CONCLUSION 58

27 BIBLIOGRAPHY 59

INTRODUCTION

3
The liberalization process of the Indian economy has penetrated deep into the lives of people
including women. Historically, women are considered as the weaker sex, as a result, for the past
centuries, women are deprived of most of the rights of the opposite sex, particularly the issue
about leadership and management. Earlier the women were confined to household chores. This is
particularly because of the issue of leadership. The early leadership theories focused on the Great
Man theory, thus, all of the theories primarily focus on describing men and male leaders. As a
result, women are all excluded from being seen as a leader, due to the fact that during that time,
literatures and researchers considered men and women having different behaviors, skills and
attitudes, consequently, the said differences between the two sexes are considered as hinder for
women in terms of career advancement (Morrison & Von Glinow 1990).women are the nucleus
of our civilization. She has different roles to play in ever changing social environment.

Women’s development, thus, is directly related with nation’s development. With the dawn of
independence, our constitution guaranteed gender equality, and a large number of schemes and
programmers for women’s development were initiated. But despite of these measures, Indian
women entrepreneurs continues to live and strive in a complex situation of socio-cultural,
historical, political and economic realities. It took centuries for women’s role to unfold in
different forms, shape and size to move in a new direction. Still there are localities where women
still listen to code of conduct written on there four walls by male dominating society however in
some localities women’s are fighting back these problems and are trying to come out there four
walls which are holding them back to show there skills, abilities and interests.

However, with changing times, the potential of women was recognized and gradually status of
women gained importance. Although the Government of India strived to break through such
gender discrimination by introducing various initiatives like emphasis on women’s education,
abolition of child marriages, women health activities, etc., but the results were not fruitful.
Historically many freedom fighters and leaders took up many movement against women’s
subjugation to men it means there is no discrimination between men and women in the eye of our
constitution. Then where does this difference lies?
This difference lies nowhere but in minds of our society and somewhere in our culture which
never wanted women’s to step out of there abode. Previously it was always the male member to

4
step out to earn living for his family then came a time where women started coming out to earn
but only under the condition where male member was absent or was unable to work, and it was
considered as a condition of pity for that women and his family as well. But it took so many ages
for women to come out and earn there interest and feel proud about themselves. It was always a
son who used to take over his father’s business but with the changing role of women now this
scenario has also changed now there are many examples where a girl is contributing his best with
her parental business. The growing Indian middle class shed apprehensions about educating the
girl child and gave due importance for higher studies. Educating women has changed the role of
women. Gradually, women’s education was encouraged and due importance given to women’s
career and professional life

In this dynamic world, women entrepreneurs are an important part of the global quest for
sustained economic development and social progress. In the words of president APJ Abdul
Kalam "empowering women is a prerequisite for creating a good nation, when women are
empowered, society with stability is assured. Empowerment of women is essential as their
thoughts and their value systems lead to the development of a good family, good society and
ultimately a good nation."

DEFINITIONE

5
Women Entrepreneurs may be defined as the women or a group of women who initiate, organize
and operate a business enterprise. Government of India has defined women entrepreneurs as an
enterprise owned and controlled by a women having a minimum financial interest of 51% of the
capital and giving at least 51% of employment generated in the enterprise to women. Like a male
entrepreneurs a women entrepreneur has many functions.

They should explore the prospects of starting new enterprise; undertake risks, introduction of
new innovations, coordination administration and control of business and providing effective
leadership in all aspects of business.

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

6
The purpose of this study is to investigate the role Cooperative bank of Kenya has played in
empowering women entrepreneurs in Small and Micro enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya.
Specifically, the objectives of the study are to:

i) To explore the role of Cooperative bank in empowering women entrepreneurs in small

and micro enterprises

ii) To examine the number of women entrepreneurs in Small and micro enterprises that
Cooperative bank (Westland’s bank) has helped so far operating in Umoja market

iii) To identify the industries these small scale women entrepreneurs are operating in

iv) To explore the challenges faced by Cooperative bank in pursuing such endeavors

v) To recommend an appropriate plan for Cooperative bank and other lending institutions to
use in future in pursuing such endeavors

WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS: CONCEPT AND FUNCTIONS OF

WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS

7
Concept:

Women entrepreneur may be defined as a woman or group of women who initiate, organize, and
run a business enterprise. In terms of Schumpeterian concept of innovative entrepreneurs,
women who innovate, imitate or adopt a business activity are called “women entrepreneurs”.

Kamal Singh who is a woman entrepreneur from Rajasthan, has defined woman entrepreneur as
“a confident, innovative and creative woman capable of achieving self-economic independence
individually or in collaboration, generates employment opportunities for others through
initiating, establishing and running the enterprise by keeping pace with her personal, family and
social life.”

The Government of India has defined women entrepreneurs based on women participation in
equity and employment of a business enterprise. Accordingly, the Government of India
(GOI2006) has defined women entrepreneur as “an enterprise owned and controlled by a women
having a minimum financial interest of 51 per cent of the capital and giving at least 51 per cent
of the employment generated in the enterprise to women.” However, this definition is subject to
criticism mainly on the condition of employing more than 50 per cent women workers in the
enterprises owned and run by the women.

In nutshell, women entrepreneurs are those women who think of a business enterprise, initiate it,
organize and combine the factors of production, operate the enterprise and undertake risks and
handle economic uncertainty involved in running a business enterprise.

Functions of Women Entrepreneurs:

8
As an entrepreneur, a woman entrepreneur has also to perform all the functions involved in
establishing an enterprise. These include idea generation and screening, determination of
objectives, project preparation, product analysis, and determination of forms of business
organization, completion of promotional formalities, raising funds, procuring men, machine and
materials, and operation of business.

1. Exploration of the prospects of starting a new business enterprise.

2. Undertaking of risks and the handling of economic uncertainties involved in business.

3. Introduction of innovations or imitation of innovations.

4. Coordination, administration and control.

5. Supervision and leadership.

GROWTH OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN INDIA

9
Women in India constitute around half of the country's population. Hence, they are regarded as
the "better half of the society". In the official proclamation, they are at par with men. But, in real
life, the truth prevails otherwise. Our society is still male-dominated and women are not treated
as equal partners both inside and outside four walls of the house.

In fact, they are treated as able, i.e., weak and dependent on men. As such, the Indian women
enjoy a disadvantageous status in the society. Let us give some facts about it. The low literacy
rate (40%), low work participation rate (28%) and low urban population share (10%) of women
as compared to 60%, 52% and 18% respectively of their male counterparts well confirm their
disadvantageous position in the Indian society.

Our age-old socio-cultural traditions and taboos arresting the women within four walls of their
houses also make their conditions more disadvantageous. These factors together serve as non-
conducive conditions for the emergence and development of women entrepreneurship in the
country.

Given these unfavorable conditions, the development of women entrepreneurship is expectedly

low in the country. This is well indicated by a dismally low level of women (5.2%) in total self-
employed persons in the country (Gupta and Khanka 1996). Further, women entrepreneurs in
India accounted for 9.01% of the total 1.70 million entrepreneurs in the country during 1988-89
(Desai 1992).

A cross-country comparison reveals that emergence and development of entrepreneurship is

largely caused by the availability of supporting conditions in a country. To quote, with
improving supporting conditions, the share of women owned enterprises in the United States has
risen from 7.1% in 1977 to 32% in 1990. It is likely to reach to 50% by the turn of the 20th
century.
In India, women entry into business is a new phenomenon. Women entry into business, or say,
entrepreneurship is traced out as an extension of their kitchen activities mainly to 3 Ps, viz.,
Pickles, Powder and Pappad. Women in India plugged into business for both pull and push
factors.

10
Pull factors imply the factors which encourage women to start an occupation or venture with an
urge to do something independently. Push factors refer to those factors which compel women to
take up their own business to tide over their economic difficulties and responsibilities.

With growing awareness about business and spread of education among women over the period,
women have started shifting from 3 Ps to engross to 3 modem Es, viz., Engineering, Electronics,
and Energy and other industries under Integrated Rural Development Programmers (David
1992). They have excelled in these activities. Women entrepreneurs manufacturing solar cookers
in Gujarat, small foundries in Maharashtra and T.V. capacitors in Odisha have proved beyond
doubt that given the opportunities, they can excel their male counterparts (Moore and Buttner
1997).

Smt. Sumati Morarji (Shipping Corporation), Smt. Yamutai Kirloskar (Mahila Udyog Limited),
Smt. Neena MaUiotra (Exports), Kiran Majumdar Shaw (Bio-technology) Naina Lai Kidwai
(Banking), Jaswantiben Jamnadas Popat (Food), and Smt. Shahnaz Hussain (Beauty Clinic) are
some exemplary names of successful and accomplished women entrepreneurs in our country.

Women have traditionally played an important role in the small business development as owners,
managers, and workers. They dominate three important sub-sectors, constituting over 80 per cent
of the employees in textile, clothing and leather production; 75 per cent in food, beverages and
tobacco production; and over 60 per cent in wood and wood processing (quoted by Bhargav
(2007). Besides, they also act as micro- entrepreneurs and traders in agri-business.

In India, Kerala is a state with highest literacy (including women literacy) reflecting a congenial
atmosphere for the emergence and development of women entrepreneurship in the State.
According to a study of the Government of Kerala (Government of Kerala 1984), the number of
women's industrial units in Kerala was 358 in 1981 which rose to 782 in March 1984.

These 782 units included 592 proprietary concerns, 43 partnership firms, 42 charitable
institutions, 03 joint stock companies and 102 co-operative societies covering a wide-range of

11
activities. On the whole, proper education of women in Kerala resulted in high motivation among
them to enter into business.

The financial, marketing and training assistance provided by the State Government also helped
motivate women to assume entrepreneurial career. Women's desire to work at the place or
residence, difficulty of getting jobs in the public and private sectors and the desire for social
recognition also motivated women in Kerala for self- employment. Like Kerala, an increasing
number of women are entering the business in the State of Maharashtra also.

CHARACTERISTICS OF WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR IN INDIA

12
1. Management and Control:
A woman or a group of women manages the whole business of enterprise. She prepares various
plans and executes them under her own supervision and control. There may be some persons to
help her but ultimate control lies with the woman.

2. Employment to Women:
A woman entrepreneur must provide at least 51 percent of the employment generated in her
enterprise to women.

3. Risk-taking:
Risk means uncertainty. It is the condition of not knowing the outcome of an activity. A woman
entrepreneur takes calculated risk.
She faces uncertainty confidently and assumes risk. She has to tie up capital and wait for good
returns. A woman entrepreneur likes to take realistic risks because she wants to be a successful
entrepreneur.

4. Good organizer:
The most critical skill required for industrial development is the ability of building a sound
organization. A woman entrepreneur assembles, co-ordinates, organizes and manages the other
factors namely land, labor and capital. She obtains factors of production from the society and
supplies them finished product.

5. Self-confidence:
It is essential to be a self-confident for a woman entrepreneur. She should have faith in herself
and in her abilities. She should have the confidence to implement the change and overcome any
resistance to change. A woman entrepreneur should have courage to own the mistakes and
correct them.

6. Decision–maker:

13
The main function of a woman entrepreneur is to make decision. She takes various decisions
regarding the activities of her enterprise. She decides about the type of business to be done and
the way of doing it. A woman entrepreneur must be clear and creative in decision making
process.

7. Visionary:
A woman entrepreneur is one who incubates new ideas, starts her enterprise with these ideas and
provides added value to society based on their independent initiative.

8. Hard worker:
A distinguishing feature of a woman entrepreneur is the willingness to work hard. She has to
follow the principle, “Hard-work is the key to success”.

9. Achievement oriented:
A woman entrepreneur is an achievement oriented lady, not money hungry. She works for
challenge, accomplishment and service to others. Achievement orientation is a derive to
overcome challenges, to advance and to grow.

10. Optimistic:
A woman entrepreneur must be optimistic. She should approach her venture with a hope of
success and attitude for success rather than with a fear of failure. The positive thinking of woman
entrepreneur can turn the situation favorable to her.

11. Technically competent:

The success of an enterprise largely depends upon the ability of woman entrepreneur to cope
with latest technology. Technical competency refers to the ability to devise and use the better
ways of producing and marketing goods and services.

12. Bold and brave:

14
Women entrepreneurs face the adversities boldly and bravery. She has faith in herself and
attempts to solve the problems even under great pressure.

ROLE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT

15
The word development is used in so many ways that its precise connotation is often baffling.
Nevertheless, economic development essentially means a process of upward change whereby the
real per capita income of a country increases over a long period of time. Then, a simple but
meaningful question arises

This question has absorbed the attention of scholars of socio-economic change for decades. In
this section, we shall attempt to shed light on an important aspect of that larger question, i.e. the
phenomenon of entrepreneurship.

The one major issue we shall address here is: what is the significance of entrepreneurship for
economic development? Does it add an important independent influence to that of other factors
widely agreed to promote economic development of a country like India?
Adam Smith, the foremost classical economist, assigned no significance to entrepreneurial role
in economic development in his monumental work’ An Enquiry into the Nature and Causes of
the Wealth of Nations’, published in 1776. Smith extolled the rate of capital formation as an
important determinant of economic development.

The problem of economic development was ergo largely the ability of the people to save more
and invest more in any country. According to him, ability to save is governed by improvement in
productivity to the increase in the dexterity of every worker due to division of labour. Smith
regarded every person as the best judge of his own interest who should be left to pursue his own
advantage. According to him, each individual is led by an ‘invisible hand’ in pursuing his/her
interest. He always advocated the policy of laissez-faire in economic affairs.

In his theory of economic development, David Ricardo identified only three factors of
production, namely, machinery, capital and labour, among whom the entire produce is
distributed as rent, profit and wages respectively. Ricardo appreciated the virtues of profit in
capital accumulation. According to him, profit leads to saving of wealth which ultimately goes to
capital formation.

16
Thus, in both the classical theories of economic development, there is no room for
entrepreneurship. And, economic development seems to be automatic and self-regulated. Thus,
the attitude of classical economists was very cold towards the role of entrepreneurship in
economic development. They took the attitude: “the firm is shadowy entity and entrepreneur
even shadower or at least is shady when he is not shadowy.” The economic history of the
presently developed countries, for example, America, Russia and Japan tends to support the fact
that the economy is an effect for which entrepreneurship is the cause.

The crucial role played by the entrepreneurs in the development of the Western countries has
made the people of underdeveloped countries too much conscious of the significance of
entrepreneurship for economic development. Now, people have begun to realize that for
achieving the goal of economic development, it is necessary to increase entrepreneurship both
qualitatively and quantitatively in the country. It is only active and enthusiastic entrepreneurs
who fully explore the potenti­alities of the country’s available resources – labour, technology and
capital.

Schumpeter (1934) visualized the entrepreneur as the key figure in economic development
because of his role in introducing innovations. Parson and Smelter (1956) described
entrepreneurship as one of the two necessary conditions for economic development, the other
being the increased output of capital.

Harbison (1965) includes entrepreneurs among the prime movers of innovations, and Sayigh
(1962) simply describes entrepreneurship as a necessary dynamic force. It is also opined that
development does not occur spontaneously as a natural consequence when economic conditions
are in some sense ‘right’: a catalyst or agent is always needed, and this requires an
entrepreneurial ability.

It is this ability that he perceives opportunities which either others do no see or care about.
Essentially, the entrepreneur searches for change, sees need and then brings together the
manpower, material and capital required to respond the opportunity what he sees.

17
Akio Morita, the President of Sony who adopted the company’s products to create Walkman
Personal Stereo and India’s Gulshan Kumar of T-Series who skimmed the audio-cassette starved
vast Indian market are the clearest examples of such able entrepreneurs.

The role of entrepreneurship in economic development varies from economy to economy

depending upon its material resources, industrial climate and the responsiveness of the political
system to the entrepreneurial function. The entrepreneurs contribute more in favourable
opportunity conditions than in the economies with relatively less favourable opportunity
conditions.

Viewed from the opportunity conditions point of view, the underdeveloped regions, due to the
paucity of funds, lack of skilled labour and non-existence of minimum social and economic
overheads, are less conducive to the emergence particularly of innovative entrepreneurs.

In such regions, entrepreneurship does not emerge out of industrial background with well-
developed institutions to support and encourage it. Therefore, entrepreneurs in such regions may
not be an “innovator” but an “imitator” who would copy the innovations introduced by the
“innovative” entrepreneurs of the developed regions (Brozen 1954-55).
In these areas, according to McClelland’s (1961) concept of personality aspect of
entrepreneurship, some people with high achievement motivation come forward to behave in an
entrepreneurial way to change the stationary inertia, as they would not be satisfied with the
present status that they have in the society.

Under the conditions of paucity of funds and the problem of imperfect market in underdeveloped
regions, the entrepreneurs are bound to launch their enterprises on a small-scale. As imitation
requires lesser funds than innovation, it is realized that such regions should have more imitative
entrepreneurs.

And, it is also felt that imitation of innovations introduced in developed regions on a massive
scale can bring about rapid economic development in underdeveloped regions also. But, it does
not mean that such imitation requires in any way lesser ability on the part of entrepreneurs.

18
THE IMPORTANT ROLE THAT ENTREPRENEURSHIP PLAYS
IN THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

19
1. Entrepreneurship promotes capital formation by mobilizing the idle saving of the public.

2. It provides immediate large-scale employment. Thus, it helps reduce the unemployment

problem in the country, i.e., the root of all socio-economic problems.

3. It promotes balanced regional development.

4. It helps reduce the concentration of economic power.

5. It stimulates the equitable redistribution of wealth, income and even political power in the
interest of the country.

6. It encourages effective resource mobilisation of capital and skill which might otherwise
remain unutilized and idle.

7. It also induces backward and forward linkages which stimulate the process of economic
development in the country.

8. Last but no means the least, it also promotes country’s export trade i.e., an important
ingredient to economic development.

PROBLEMS OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN INDIA

1. The greatest deterrent to women entrepreneurs is that they are women. A kind of
patriarchal – male dominant social order is the building block to them in their way

20
 towards business success. Male members think it a big risk financing the ventures run by
women.

2. The financial institutions are skeptical about the entrepreneurial abilities of women. The
bankers consider women loonies as higher risk than men loonies. The bankers put
unrealistic and unreasonable securities to get loan to women entrepreneurs. According to
a report by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), "despite
evidence that women's loan repayment rates are higher than men's, women still face more
difficulties in obtaining credit," often due to discriminatory attitudes of banks and
informal lending groups (UNIDO, 1995b).

3. Entrepreneurs usually require financial assistance of some kind to launch their ventures -
be it a formal bank loan or money from a savings account. Women in developing nations
have little access to funds, due to the fact that they are concentrated in poor rural
communities with few opportunities to borrow money (Starcher, 1996; UNIDO, 1995a).
The women entrepreneurs are suffering from inadequate financial resources and working
capital. The women entrepreneurs lack access to external funds due to their inability to
provide tangible security. Very few women have the tangible property in hand.

4. Indian women give more emphasis to family ties and relationships. Married women have
to make a fine balance between business and home. More over the business success is
depends on the support the family members extended to women in the business process
and management. The interest of the family members is a determinant factor in the
realization of women folk business aspirations.

5. Another argument is that women entrepreneurs have low-level management skills. They
have to depend on office staffs and intermediaries, to get things done, especially, the
marketing and sales side of business. Here there is more probability for business fallacies
like the intermediaries take major part of the surplus or profit. Marketing means mobility
and confidence in dealing with the external world, both of which women have been

21
 discouraged from developing by social conditioning. Even when they are otherwise in
control of an enterprise, they often depend on males of the family in this area.

6. The male - female competition is another factor, which develop hurdles to women
entrepreneurs in the business management process. Despite the fact that women
entrepreneurs are good in keeping their service prompt and delivery in time, due to lack
of organizational skills compared to male entrepreneurs women have to face constraints
from competition. The confidence to travel across day and night and even different
regions and states are less found in women compared to male entrepreneurs. This shows
the low level freedom of expression and freedom of mobility of the women
entrepreneurs.

7. Knowledge of alternative source of raw materials availability and high negotiation skills
are the basic requirement to run a business. Getting the raw materials from different
souse with discount prices is the factor that determines the profit margin. Lack of
knowledge of availability of the raw materials and low-level negotiation and bargaining
skills are the factors, which affect women entrepreneur's business adventures.

8. Low-level risk taking attitude is another factor affecting women folk decision to get into
business. Low-level education provides low-level self-confidence and self-reliance to the
women folk to engage in business, which is continuous risk taking and strategic cession
making profession. Investing money, maintaining the operations and ploughing back
money for surplus generation requires high risk taking attitude, courage and confidence.
Thought he risk tolerance ability of the women folk in day-to-day life is high compared
to male members, while in business it is found opposite to that.

9. Achievement motivation of the women folk found less compared to male members. The
low level of education and confidence leads to low level achievement and advancement
motivation among women folk to engage in business operations and running a business
concern.

22
 10. Finally high production cost of some business operations adversely affects the
development of women entrepreneurs. The installation of new machineries during
expansion of the productive capacity and like similar factors dissuades the women
entrepreneurs from venturing into new areas.

IMPORTANCE OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN INDIA

Women in the present day have been recognized as an indivisible part of the global struggle for a
stable economy. Same is the case in India where women have recently become the symbol of
change.

23
Reasons that motivate women’s entry in commerce vary but despite all of their variations in
socioeconomic backgrounds, they have proved their worth time and again. They have taken risks
in businesses and managed to make them pay off. Over and over, Indian women have competed
with men and proven to be equal in every race, including entrepreneurship.

STEPS TAKEN BY GOVERNMENT TO WOMEN

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

1.Trade Related Entrepreneurship Assistance and Development (TREAD)

scheme for women

24
This scheme provides women with proper trade related training, information and counseling
along with extension activities related to trades, products, services etc. Along with that,
Government Grant also provides up to 30% of the total project cost as appraised by lending
institutions which would finance the remaining 70% as loan Assistance to applicant women. It
mostly helps poor & usually illiterate/semi-literate women to get started on their business.

2. Mahila Vikas Nidhi

This fund has been set up by SIDBI to help women in rural area start their entrepreneurship
easily. It grants loan to women are given to start their venture in the field like spinning, weaving,
knitting, embroidery products, block printing, handlooms handicrafts, bamboo products etc.

3. Co-operative Schemes
Women co-operatives schemes were formed to help women in agro-based industries like dairy
farming, poultry, animal husbandry, horticulture etc. with full financial support from the
Government.

4. Government Yojanas
Swarna Jayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana and Swaran Jayanti Sekhari Rozgar Yojana were two
important schemes launched by the government to provide reservations for women and
encouraging them to start their ventures.

5. Private Organisations
Several NGOs, voluntary organizations, Self-help groups, institutions and individual enterprises
from rural and urban areas are working to help new women entrepreneurs to set up their business
and run it smoothly.

25
SIGNIFICANCE OF WOMEN IN INDIA’S ENTREPRENEURIAL
SECTOR

Indian women have been at the receiving end of criticism but much to the dismay of their
skeptics, they have mostly appeared triumphant as the dust of criticism settled. The industry has
much to gain and literally nothing to lose with women in business. The merits are innumerable.

26
• Indian industry’s think-tank gets bigger.
• New opportunities are created.
• More employment opportunities are generated.
• Per-capita income increases.
• Indians enjoy better standard of living.
• Education and awareness becomes common.
• Future becomes brighter for the next generation.
• Women gain a better understanding of managing family and business concurrently.
• Indian women achieve a sense of self-realization and self-fulfillment.
• Women gain better ability to take risks and business decisions.
• Women become more confident.

OPPORTUNITIES TO INDIAN WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS

Educated, gifted, and qualified females can enter virtually any business. Successful women have
been representing and still continue to represent brands like Times of India, PepsiCo, ICICI,
TAFE, HP, HSBC and J.P Morgan along with other names. The list in the lines to come puts
forward few sectors where women entrepreneurs of India can excel as senior managers and
owners.

27
• Eco-friendly/ Bio-friendly sectors
• IT sector
• Event Management
• Lifestyle sector
• Beauty and cosmetic
• Healthcare
• Travel and tourism sector
• Food, food processing and beverages
• Telecommunications
• Financing
• Plastic manufacturing
• Local and international trading
• Property and estate

BARRIERS TO INDIAN WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS OF INDIA

But like mentioned before, countless hurdles have been laid for Indian women over the years.
Surpassing all of these hurdles successfully is still a challenge. These are some of the problems
women face after starting their business:

• Family problems

28
• Management of Finance
• Managing manpower
• Professional disrespect

The key reason of women being blocked from business is that they are women. Male prejudice is
still prevalent in India. Male is still considered the dominant gender and sole bread provider. The
view that Indian women lack self-confidence, willpower, mental composure and entrepreneurial
attitude has made devastating effects on India. This view has kept the women from becoming
leaders and has also instilled fear in women.

This age-old prejudice has also convinced a portion of women that they are unable to take risks;
that they are unable to access technology, deal effectively with workers and that the best job for
them is to raise a family.

However, India is full of examples new and old that a woman can be an entrepreneur and a
successful one at that. Compared to men, fewer female businesses fail because of poor financial
management once their business gets a kick start.

Solutions to Barriers
The problems women face pose a challenge for government and the authorities to tackle, but
with the right approach and some time, they can be solved. Every Indian must understand the
importance of women entrepreneurship. On top of all, women need motivation and any
discouragement must be dealt with. Following are some measures that can be taken to make
women empowered so that they can continue their business activities as confidently as Indian
men.

29
• Creating better education opportunities.
• Making provisions for personality development and training.
• Improving communication skills.
• Institutions where women can learn entrepreneurial skills and risk taking abilities.
• Measures to change the attitude of society concerning women and women entrepreneurs in
India.
• Attempts from nongovernmental bodies like agencies, trusts, welfare societies and NGOs.
• More women’s associations for better financing and capital management.
• Providing nationwide platform for women like forums to discuss prevalent issues and
solutions to deal with such shortcomings.

9 QUALITIES OF REMARKABLE ENTREPRENEURS

1. They find happiness in the success of others.

Great business teams win because their most talented members are willing to sacrifice to make
others happy. Great teams are made up of employees who help each other, know their roles, and
set aside personal goals, and value team success over everything else.

30
2. They relentlessly seek new experiences.
Novelty seeking—getting bored easily and throwing yourself into new pursuits or activities - is
often linked to gambling, drug abuse, attention deficit disorder, and leaping out of perfectly good
airplanes without a parachute.
But, according to Dr. Robert Cloninger, "Novelty seeking is one of the traits that keeps you
healthy and happy and fosters personality growth as you age... if you combine adventurousness
and curiosity with persistence and a sense that it's not all about you, then you get the creativity
that benefits society as a whole."
As Cloninger says, "To succeed, you want to be able to regulate your impulses while also having
the imagination to see what the future would be like if you tried something new."

3. They don't think work/life balance; they just think life.

Symbolic work-life boundaries are almost impossible to maintain. Why? You are your business.
Your business is your life, just like your life is your business - which is also true for family,
friends, and interests—so there is no separation, because all those things make you who you are.
Remarkable entrepreneurs find ways to include family instead of ways to exclude work. They
find ways to include interests, hobbies, passions, and personal values in their daily business lives.

4. They're incredibly empathetic.

Unless you create something entirely new which is very hard to do your business is based on
fulfilling an existing need or solving a problem.

It's impossible to identify a need or a problem without the ability to put yourself in another
person's shoes; that's the mark of a successful entrepreneur.
But remarkable entrepreneurs go a step farther, regularly putting themselves in the shoes of their
employees.

5. They have something to prove - to themselves.

Many people have a burning desire to prove other people wrong. That's a great motivator.

31
Remarkable entrepreneurs are driven by something deeper and more personal. True drive,
commitment, and dedication springs from a desire to prove something to the most important
person of all.

6. They ignore the 40-hour workweek hype.

Studies show that working more than 40 hours a week decreases productivity.
Successful business owners work smarter, sure, but they also outwork their competition. (Every
successful business owner I know who reads those stories probably thinks, "Cool. Hopefully my
competitors will believe that crap.")
The author Richard North Patterson tells a great story about Robert Kennedy. Kennedy was
seeking to indict Teamsters head Jimmy Hoffa (who some believe is chilling in Argentina with
Elvis and Jim Morrison). One night Kennedy worked on the Hoffa case until about 2 a.m. One
his way home he passed the Teamsters building and saw the lights were still on in Hoffa's office,
so he turned around and went back to work.

7. They see money as a responsibility, not a reward.

Many entrepreneurial cautionary tales involve buying 17 cars, loading up on pricey antiques,
importing Christmas trees, and spending $40,000 a year for a personal masseuse.

8. They don't think they're remarkable.

In a world of social media everyone can be their own PR agent. It's incredibly easy for anyone to
blow their own horn and bask in the glow of their insight and accomplishments.
Remarkable entrepreneurs don't. They accept their success is based on ambition, persistence, and
execution... but they also recognize that key mentors, remarkable employees, and a huge dose of
luck also played a part.
Remarkable entrepreneurs reap the rewards of humility, asking questions, seeking advice,
recognizing and praising others.

9. They know that success is fleeting, but dignity and respect last forever.

32
Providing employees with higher pay, better benefits, and greater opportunities is certainly
important. But no level of pay and benefits can overcome damage to self-esteem and self-worth.

CHALLENGES OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEUR’S

• Women leadership is invisible, that is, women leaders take a back seat to submit to
men leaders since the corporate world is a man’s industry.
• Women leaders are more assertive and persuasive, have a stronger need to get things
done and are more willing to take risks than male leaders

33
• Leadership remains as a domain dominated by men as it is directly associated with
authoritarianism to which the women lacks.
• Tokenism prevails in the corporate world that endangers the value of women leaders
in comparison of men leaders.
• Women leaders themselves have lower expectations than that of men leaders thus
women leaders are more hindered by the entitlement effect.
• Women faces more challenges before becoming leaders compared to that of the
challenges experienced by men.

WHAT MAKES WOMEN SO SUCCESSFUL IN THE INDIAN

BANKING INDUSTRY

• The present data clearly indicates that management in general has become much more
human-oriented, even in the face of some incredible advancement in technology. As a
result, scholars and professionals alike have recognized the need for people with

34
 better 'Soft' skills that include communicating, networking, empowering, delegating,
and counseling among others.

• Retail banking is more of a relationship thing and women excel at that. In the Indian
context, while women have started venturing out to work in the corporate world, they
have been handling relationships at home too, as a wife or a mother. "This nurturing
and adjusting attitude flows into the workplace as well."

• The mid-80s saw a number of smart women graduating from the B-schools just when
the Indian banking sector was starting to grow. ICICI, HDFC, HSBC, Citibank, were
all expanding and were hiring during the mid-80s and the early 90s.

• Women have done well in banking because it is a business where you need to keep in
mind what the customer wants. Women have some amount of empathy towards a
customers needs.

• Most women bankers agree that one of main advantages they had was the support
system from their family. There may be numerous cases to belie their observation but
for the achievers, family support made all the difference. "There is family, in-laws,
friends and domestic staff that offer support to the household, which makes it easier
for the woman to focus on her career.

• Companies are increasingly recognizing the talent of women and placing them in a
required position. Earlier, women were risk-averse but with changing times they are
becoming risk-takers as men and focusing on long-term interests of the company. In
general, operating and managing businesses by women are significantly different with
that of men. Studies showed that the styles of leadership of both men and women can
be effective depending n the business circumstances but women’s leadership has
more edge.

35
 • In today’s world, leadership is becoming more results-oriented than process-driven.
Moreover, organizations with more women executives are experiencing better results
or improved financial performance than companies with few women leaders. Traits
like patience, commitment, understanding others‟ concerns and so on are in-built in
women, which are very helpful in building strong business relationships.

• Women managers tend to have more of a desire to build than a desire to win.

• Women tend to be better than men at empowering staff.

• Women encourage openness and are more accessible.

BANK SCHEMES FOR FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS

Opportunity rarely knocks twice, and women in India have grasped every opportunity they were
presented with, establishing an entrepreneurial base spanning villages, towns and cities. Women
have forayed into different sectors, providing job opportunities to millions, helping the country
progress towards development. Today, banks have realized the vast potential women hold,

36
offering customized products to help them enhance their business, ensuring that funds do not
become an impediment in realizing certain dreams.
Popular schemes for women entrepreneurs
A number of banks offer exclusive schemes for female entrepreneurs, with some of the popular
ones mentioned below.

State Bank of Mysore

SBM has two schemes for women entrepreneurs, the Annapurna Scheme and the Stree Shakti
package.
• Annapurna Scheme – This scheme is designed for women who wish to establish
food catering units, and offers loans up to Rs 50,000 for this purpose. The loan can
be used to purchase kitchen essentials, gas connections, raw materials, etc. and has
a repayment period of 3 years.
• Stree Shakti – Loans under this scheme can be availed by women entrepreneurs
who have undergone EDP training. Loans up to Rs 50 lakh can be availed under
this plan, with lower interest rates applicable for higher amounts.

Oriental Bank of Commerce

Oriental Bank of Commerce has two schemes designed for self-employed women and those who
are keen on setting up a beauty parlous/saloon.

• Scheme for Beauty parlours/boutiques – This scheme aims to promote

entrepreneurial spirit among women, and offers loans up to Rs 10 lakh to set up a
saloon, boutique, tailoring center or beauty parlous. The loan amount can be used
to meet any expenditure associated with setting up such a center and for daily
expenses.
• Scheme for self-employed women – This loan can be utilized to purchase fixed
assets to enhance or start a business. The maximum loan amount is limited to Rs 5
lakh, with a repayment period ranging between 5 and 7 years.

Bank of Baroda
37
Bank of Baroda offers one loan scheme for women entrepreneurs, the Akshaya Mahila Athik
Sahay Yojna (AMASY), designed to help women reach their business dreams without having to
worry about finances. This loan can be availed by women who are engaged in or wish to
establish a business in retail trade, cottage industries and/or allied agricultural activities.
Dena Bank
Dena Bank offers an exclusive scheme to aid female entrepreneurs, providing them sufficient
financial help to build an enterprise. Loans can be availed as per RBI directions, with the amount
varying according to the sector in which a woman wishes to establish a venture. This loan can be
used for agriculture, MSMEs, education, housing and retail trade. Borrowers are also eligible for
a special interest rate which is 0.25% lower than prevailing rates.

Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Limited

TMB offers a loan designed for women entrepreneurs, the Mahalir Loan. This loan can be used
to finance any business, with loans upto Rs 10 lakh available. The loan can be repaid within 7
years, with the interest rate depending on the quantum of loan.

Punjab National Bank

PNB offers 5 different schemes for women entrepreneurs, each one targeting a specific
population.

• PNB Mahila Samridhi Yojana – This scheme was launched to provide financial
assistance to women who wish to set up boutiques, beauty parlours, cyber cafes,
Xerox stores, telephone booths, etc.
• PNB Mahila Udyam Nidhi Scheme – This scheme aims to reduce the gap in equity,
helping women set up new ventures in the small scale sector or enhance their
current undertakings.
• PNB Scheme for financing crèches – This scheme aims to provide financial
assistance to women who are keen on setting up crèches. The loan can be used to
purchase the necessary materials and to meet any recurring expenditure.

38
 • PNB Mahila Sashaktikaran Abhiyan – This scheme provides credit to women who
intend to establish small and micro enterprises in the non-farm sector, offering fee
waiver and lower interest rate.
• PNB Kalyani Card Scheme – This scheme provides loans for women engaged in
agricultural, farm or non-farm activities.

SUCCESSFUL STORY WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS

1. It all starts with an idea

39
The most successful entrepreneurs started out with having an idea in mind. Whether it is a kind
of product they want to create or a service that is not yet being offered in the market, everything
starts with an idea.
The ability to transform that idea into a business is what sets everything in motion.
So, explore. Be creative and innovative.
According to Sheila Marcela, founder of Care.com, “thinking in terms of evolution is essential.”

2. Do not be afraid of failure

Once failure sets in, you will never be able to have the courage to pursue what you have always
wanted and imagined to do.
By letting failure get the best of you, no matter how great your business idea is, you have already
set your path to failure.
For only the bold and the risk takers can succeed in this highly competitive world. As such, you
should never be afraid of trying.
Do not let your fear of failure come to mind.
One of the youngest- female billionaires in America, Sara Blakely who is the founder of Spanx
says that, “It is always important to make mistakes.”
The biggest mistake that you will ever make if you are an aspiring entrepreneur is to allow fear
of failure to achieve your goals.

3. You need to believe and have faith

In running a business, you will encounter a series of ups and downs. From initial success to
losses and other challenges, these things are all part of the business process.
No matter how rough the road is, you just have to keep that faith and believe that despite the
odds, you will make it through.
The Chairman, CEO and Designer of Tory Burch LLC, believes that “You can have it all. You
just have to know it’s going to work.”
When you believe that everything can be done, everything is possible.

4. Be independent
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Who says that women have to rely on men just to succeed in their respective fields?
What these successful women entrepreneurs tell us is that you should never be afraid to have
your own independence and have the ability to pursue your passion and your business goals.
Famous designer Diane Von Furstenberg says that “she is the woman who has always wanted to
be independent and who could pay for her own bills and have her life the way she wants it.”
Eventually she’s become that woman.

5. Work for a greater cause

Entrepreneurship is not just money, fame and glory.
Many of the most successful women entrepreneurs today have impacted the world in positive
ways as many of them work for a greater cause.
When you have your own business, you do not just make your own money.
You can provide employment for a lot of people and in your own ways, you can help your
community and society through corporate social responsibility and other means.

6. Success is all about hard work

There is one thing that all the successful women have in common. All of them have achieved
their success by working hard.
If you really want to make it big and succeed in your business venture, you should be ready to
give it your all and never complain.
No one succeeds by just thinking or daydreaming of something that they want to do.
This is one secret shared by Estee Lauder, the founder of one of the world’s biggest cosmetic and
skincare company, Estee Lauder Companies.

7. Learn to adapt to the necessities of time

In this highly competitive world where trends continue to change, you must always adapt to
changing times.
Successful businesses continue to prosper and thrive since they know what the people need and
what the market needs.

41
When you adapt to the necessities of time, your business can provide what the people are looking
for.

8. Excellence is always the norm

In everything that you do, successful women entrepreneurs always emphasize the importance of
doing your best.
Whether you are in business or in any other field, to be successful you should never settle for
mediocrity.

15 THINGS TO SUCCESSFUL WOMEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

1. They play to their strengths.

42
This is not necessarily the same as doing what you love. You might love doing mosaics but you
might not choose that for your career. Think about what you can do so well that you can
dominate your field with time. You should also love it. But successful women often choose their
career paths by thinking first about what they’re good at and second about what they love to do.

2. They have ambition.

Successful women do not dream about being the best in their section or department. Their eyes
are set on the best in the state or country, at least. Most want to change the world.

3. They stay positive.

Successful women know how to deal with disappointment in a way that keeps them from getting
down and staying down. They know the future will be bright for them.

4. They’re organized.
The vast majority of people I interviewed said yes quickly, checked their calendars, booked a
date and did the interview. No extra emails. Not many reschedules. They decide what they want
to do and then they just do it simple and organized.

5. They’re constantly learning.

These women do not stay static. They are continually improving themselves, and use mentors
and coaches to accelerate their improvement.

6. They have a strong support system.

Most of the women I spoke to have a partner or family member who is supportive of what they
do. They know they have somebody to lean on when needed.

7. They know failure and success go together.

Everyone has their failures on their way to the top. That’s just how it is.

8. They remain grateful.

43
These women give credit to those who’ve helped them along the way. They are grateful for what
they have. They don’t take their current position for granted.

9. They work hard and persistently.

Nobody got to where they are now without working hard and staying persistent during the tough
times. This might be obvious, but it’s a lot easier to say than to do.

10. They don’t sweat the small stuff.

Successful people are good at separating the valuable from the worthless.

11. They choose their battles wisely.

Successful women don’t make a big deal about every little thing. But if there’s a real problem,
you can be sure that it will be swiftly solved.

12. They do what they believe in.

This is crucial. The belief in the purpose of their work is the fuel behind years of hard work and
dedication.

13. They have confidence.

Successful women believe in themselves. It’s a beautiful thing.

14. They have a vision for the future.

Successful women see a new and better world in the future and work toward achieving those
changes. They are in it for the long haul.

15. They feel successful, but never done.

There’s always more, always better, always further t oreach. These women are seemingly
tireless, ultimately devoted and constantly curious.

44
The moral of this story for me, when listening and learning from these women over this past
year, is that they are just like you and me. They were not born with silver spoons in their mouths.
True, they’re intelligent and focused. But they don’t have superpowers; they have determination,
vision and purpose.

SUCCESSFUL WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN INDIA

1. Indra Nooyi
Current position: CFO, Pepsico

45
Indra Nooyi,56, is the current chairman and CFO of the second largest food and beverage
business, PepsiCo.
Born in Chennai, Indra did her Bachelor’s in Science from Madras Christian College in 1974 and
a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (MBA) from Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta
in 1976.
Beginning her career in India, Nooyi held product manager positions at Johnson & Johnson and
textile firm Mettur Beardsell. Nooyi joined PepsiCo in 1994 and was named president and CFO
in 2001.
She has been conferred with prestigious Padma Bhushan for her business achievements and
being an inspiration to India’s corporate leadership.

2. NainaLalKidwai
Current position: Group General Manager & Country Head – HSBC, India
NainaLalKidwai, 55, is presently the Group General Manager and Country Head of HSBC India.
Naina has a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Delhi University and an MBA from Harvard
Business School. In fact, Kidwai was the first Indian woman to graduate from Harvard Business
School.
She started her career with ANZ Grind lays . Presently, she is also serving as a non-executive
director on the board of Nestle SA. Kidwai is also global advisor at Harvard Business School.
Indian government conferred Padma Shri award on Naina for her contributions in the field of
Trade and Industry.

3. KiranMazumdar Shaw
Current position: CMD, Biocon
Kiran, 59, is the founder Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Biocon Limited.

46
Born in Bangalore, Shaw completed her Bachelors in Zoology from Mount Carmel College,
Bangalore University. She later did her post-graduation in Malting and Brewing from Ballarat
College, Melbourne University.
She worked as a trainee brewer in Carlton and United Breweries, Melbourne and as a trainee
maltster at Barrett Brothers and Burston, Australia.
She started Biocon in 1978 and spearheaded its evolution from an industrial enzymes
manufacturing company to a fully integrated bio-pharmaceutical company.
Today Biocon under Shaw’s leadership has established itself as a leading player in biomedicine
research with a focus on diabetes and oncology.
Kiran is also a member of the board of governors of the prestigious Indian School of Business
and Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad.
Kiran received the prestigious Padma Shri (1989) and the Padma Bhushan (2005) from the
government of India.

4. Chanda Kochar
Current position: MD & CEO – ICICI Bank
Chanda Kochar, 51, is currently the MD & CEO of India’s largest private bank ICICI Bank.
Rajasthan born chanda got Master’s Degree in Management Studies from Jamnalal Bajaj
Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai. She received the Wockhardt Gold Medal for
Excellence in Management Studies as well as the J. N. Bose Gold Medal in Cost Accountancy.
Chanda Kochhar is married to Deepak Kochhar, a wind energy entrepreneur and her Business
schoolmate.

5. Indu Jain
Designation: Chairperson (former), Times Group
Indu Jain, 76, used to be the chairperson of India’s largest and most powerful media house – The
Times Group.
A strong votary of women’s rights and women entrepreneurship, Indu contributed immensely to
the growth of Times group. Now, her two sons Samir and Vineet are running the company.
Indu Jain is also founder President of the Ladies wing of FICCI (FLO).

47
Indu is also the Chairperson of the Bharatiya Jnanpith Trust, which awards India’s most
prestigious and highest literary award, the Jnanpith award.
She addresse the United Nations in 2000 at the Millennium World Peace Summit of Religious
and Spiritual Leaders, a speech in which she stressed the need for oneness among faiths and went
on to chair a special session of the conference.

FINDINGS

48
1. The present study illustrates that majority of the women entrepreneurs were married
and belongs to the age group of 30-39 years.
2. It is found that majority of women entrepreneurs belonging to Hindu religion and
most of them belong to Backward Caste.
3. Among the women entrepreneurs highly educated graduates and post graduates were
dominating than others.
4. Most of the women entrepreneurs are living in nuclear families and the family size
ranges between 1-3 members.
5. The income levels of the women entrepreneur’s ranges between Rs 2 to 4 lakhs per
annum and their annual consumption was between Rs 1 to 2 lakhs. This led to annual
savings up to Rs1, 00,000.
6. The study shows that a significant number of women entrepreneurs have started their
organization between 3-5 years ago at the time of the study.
7. Majority of the women entrepreneurs in this study were opted economic enterprises
like beauty parlours and food processing units. It seems that majority of them have
sole proprietorship.
8. Most of the women entrepreneurs started their activity with an investment of owned
capital / borrowed capital between Rs1 to 2 lakhs. Majority of the women
entrepreneurs have waited more than three months for sanction of bank loan for their
business.
9. The study inferred that a major group of respondents has got up to 10 percent of
returns at their initial stage, later their returns showed an upward trend i.e. more than
10 percent. They are expecting a downward trend in returns due to mushrooming
growth of similar enterprises.
10. Most of the women entrepreneurs have started with five and less number of workers,
but now the strength of workers is increased to more than five members. The
domination of female workers in the women entrepreneurs was found.
11. The executives, supervisors and workers were selected in to the enterprise through
references from the known people. Because of good will in the organization, workers
are not willing to quit quickly from the enterprise because the pay scale is

49
 comparatively more than other similar units, but executives do not like to stay for
long time in the same organization.
12. 12. The incentives given by the women entrepreneurs to their employees
vary depending upon their nature of job and prioritization of the selected work.

LIMITATION OF WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS

Financial Barrier
50
One of the most significant barriers to female entrepreneurship is the capital financing barrier.
When starting a business, entrepreneurs need to line up capital to get the business "off of the
ground." According to Mai Nguyen, female entrepreneurs often get their initial funding from
family loans, savings, credit cards and home equity loans. However, women can obtain capital
from government startup programs, self-funding and venture capitalists, among other sources.
When women have promising business ideas, it is less difficult for them to obtain startup capital.
Therefore, having solid business plans with persuasive product or service ideas helps reduce the
finance barrier for women.

Lack of Networks
Female entrepreneurs are more likely to encounter difficulty because they are less likely to be
associated with networks of people who can help them launch and sustain businesses.
"Networks" include people who provide mentorship, referrals, help and valuable information to
entrepreneurs. Men tend to dominate the highest levels of corporate leadership. Therefore, there
are less women available to provide valuable advice to female entrepreneurs. Women also face
"customer/supplier" discrimination, which occurs when customers or suppliers discriminate
against women-owned firms. In response, women business leaders can create their own networks
to cultivate the success of female entrepreneurs. However, these networks should include men
who can also be helpful to fund-raising, business strategy or other critical areas.

Family Considerations
In the United States, women are more likely to shoulder a greater share of child-rearing duties.
Children may demand their mothers' undivided attention, which can be a challenge for female
entrepreneurs to deal with. Building and running a new business requires a great deal of time,
which may conflict with one's family obligations. Women in this situation must balance their
family life with their duties as entrepreneurs. For example, parents can communicate about the
need to devote some time during the day solely on business, while other times can be devoted to
family matters.

Confidence

51
Although both men and women can face issues of self-doubt, or lack confidence to compete in
the business market, men do not suffer from the same degree of "prejudgment" as do women
entrepreneurs. For example, male business leaders may not believe that their female counterparts
can compete or innovate to the degree that men can. The basis of these views are stereotypes
about women. Having female mentors and confidants can help instill self confidence in your
abilities as a female entrepreneur.

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

1. How many Product Do You Have For Smes ?

52
Ans: 128 Products
Retail Products
Banking Products
Insurance Products

2. When did the banks starts opening such products?

Ans: Since, 19/11/1911

3. Approximately how many women entrepreneurs has the because assisted so for?
Ans: 72

4. What Challenges Is the Bank Facing In Such Endeavor?

Ans: I.T Human Reserces, Cyber Crimes NPA

5. Does the bank have defaults?

Ans: Yes Sometimes.

6. How long it will take for repayment period?

Ans: Depends On the Recovery

7. What are the requirement before an entrepreneur qualities?

Ans: She should have business. Issue’s basic knowledge. Capacity to state the business a
accept challenges.

8. Does your bank help the community?

Ans: Yes. Everywhere

9. What services(s). Product (p) do you offer/manufacturer?

Ans: All MSME Madhra Loans.

53
10. How do you advertise your product/services for women entrepreneur?
Ans: TV, Radio, Facebook, Twitter, Events.

11 .what do you attenuate your success?

Ans: Sir Sorajee Pochkhanawala.

12. Do You We the Services of Professional Accountant or Athormay?

Ans: absolutely the key in running a business is knowing. What you po no know getting
The Right People to Do It for You.

13. Do you work locally or nationally?

Ans: Both But Most of Our Work Comes From Around the Country.

14. The rate at which the bank assisted so tar?

Ans: 11.50

15. One Last Question. If You Had One Piece Of Advice someone just starting Out What
Would It Be?
Ans: She Should Know All The Details Of The Business. The Can Able To Handle Business
Problems.

SURVEY QUESTIONS

54
1. What Made You Choose Your Current Location?
Ans: Family & Cost Of Living

2. What Is Your Company Goals?

Ans: To Make Perfect Give Service Also.

3. Do You Work Locally Or Nationally?

Ans: Locally. Because of My Financial States.

4. How You Take Decision?

Ans: I have Decision By My Own.

5. Why Are You In Business?

Ans: I Want Start A Business Do Something For An Family/Country.

6. What is your background? Education on Work Experience?

Ans: I Was Passed 12th Std, No Work Experience.

7. How Long Have You Been in Business?

Ans: Since, 20 15, I Have Started Business.

8. Do You Know Who Are Your Computer?

Ans: Yes, Because My Committer helps me, To Achieve My Goal’s.

9. What Do You Do With Your Profits?

Ans: Some Profits Are Dopants In Banks & Some I Was Take For My Own Self.

10. What Is the Future For? This Type of Business?

Ans: To Make Profits

55
11. Do You Were That Bank Are Provide Loans to Women Entrepreneur?
Ans: Yes, But I Was Not Take Any Loan from Bank.

12. Com You Describe Your Customers?

Ans: Without Customer There Is No use Of Business. My Customer Are Believe Me That’s why
They Come To Me,

13. Why Do You Customer Select You Over Your Competition?

Ans: My Customer Know about My Business. I Was Only Doing Article Business. I Follow
Every Rules & Regulations.

14. Do You Have Employees? How Many?

Ans: 2

l5. Do You Do Marketing For Your Business?

Ans: Yes, I Do Marketing Business.

16. 1f You Did Not Have To Work What Would You Do?
Ans: Then I have to do only house Work.

17. If Something Happen to You, What Will Happen To Your business?

Ans: It Can Handle By My Family Members.

18. How Do You Market Your Business? How Are People Aware Of Your Business?
Ans: Mouth Publicity

19. Have You Reached Where You Wanted To Till Now?

Ans Yes. Because I Do Lott of Hard work

20. What Are Your Responsibilities As The Business Owner?

Ans, Everything

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21. What Made You Choose This Type Of Business?
Ans. If Is What I am good as do What I Enjoy.

22. Have You Earn Turned down a Silents?

Ans Yes. Not Always but Sometimes.

23. What Did You Learn PrOA1 Your Biggest railer?

Ans: To Have No Regret:

24. How Do You Find Inspiration?

Ans I am Inspired By the Peoples. I Need Speak To On Daily Business.

25. If You Had One Piece Of Advice To Someone Just Starting Out What Would It Be?
Ans Make Your Own Future Create Be Part of Something That Is Bigger Than Your Self. Of
Nobody Is Going To Give It To You. You Have To Work For Your Dream. There Is
Guarantee Success

Conclusion

57
Women constitute almost half of the total population in India but they are not enjoying their
freedoms, equalities, privileges, on par with their male counterparts. Since implementation of
planning in India, several policies and approaches were made to reduce inequalities between
women and men. As a result a shift from.
To be successful in sustainable business practices often requires entrepreneurship and
innovation. This chapter provides an overview of entrepreneurship and innovation as it relates to
sustainable business. The discussion is most relevant to sustainable businesses focused on
offering new products and services in response to societal concerns. The importance of
entrepreneurship and innovation also applies to companies that change how they produce
products and services. The latter companies can use innovative practices and entrepreneurship to
establish their brand name and to be market leaders in doing things that create shared value for
society and their companies and also, over time, contribute to changes in practices in their
industry.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Carter S (2000) „Gender and Enterprise‟ in Carter S. and Jones Evans D. (eds)

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`Enterprise and Small Business: Principles, Practice and Policy’, Addison Wesley
Carter S. and Cannon T. (1992) „Women as Entrepreneurs’, London: Academic Press
Carter S. and Rosa P. (1998) „The financing of male- and female-owned businesses‟

Entrepreneurship and Regional Development, 10(3), 225-241

Bowen, Donald D. & Hirsch Robert D. (1986), The Female Entrepreneur: A career Development
Women Entrepreneurship and Economic Development – By Sanjay Tiwari, Anshuja Tiwari.
Publisher:Sarup and

Sons

Indian Entrepreneurship

(Theory and Practice)- By Dr. D.D. Sharma & Dr. S.K. Dhameja Abhishek Publications Chandigarh-17
(India)

Entrepreneurship Development –By S.S Khanka. S. Chand & Company Limited. (Ram Nagar, New
Delhi-110055). 3.

Dynamics of entrepreneurial development and management – By Vasant Desai. Himalaya Publishing

House.

Women Entrepreneurship Development in India,

www.indianmba.com/Faculty_Column/FC1073/fc1073.html

Women in Business & Decision Making – A survey on women entrepreneurs, women network, euro
chambers Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry
Women in Business: A Demographic Review of Women’s Business Ownership, Office of Advocacy
U.S. Small Business Administration, August 2006.

WEBSITES
https://addicted2success.com
https://www.success.com
http://www.yourarticlelibrary.com
http://www.preservearticles.com

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