Women entrepreneurs in India have the potential to drive significant job creation and economic growth, according to a recent report by Bain and Co. and Google. The report, titled “Women Entrepreneurship in India—Powering the economy with her,” highlights the impact that women entrepreneurs can have on the Indian economy.
Currently, there are an estimated 16 million women-owned and controlled enterprises in India, creating direct employment for about 27 million people. However, by enabling women entrepreneurs to start up and scale their businesses, the report suggests that this number could increase significantly. By 2030, women entrepreneurs have the potential to generate 150-170 million jobs, which is more than 25% of the new jobs required for the entire working-age population.
The report identifies six dominant segments of women entrepreneurs in India, including rural non-farm home-based business owners, urban self-employed women solopreneurs, rural agripreneurs, and small business owners. These women entrepreneurs play a crucial role in job creation and contribute significantly to the economy.
Despite the progress made in the last decade, women’s participation in the labor force in India has declined. The report emphasizes the need to unlock entrepreneurship among women and provide them with equal access to finance to support their businesses.
Overall, the report highlights the transformative potential of women entrepreneurs in India and the opportunity to change the economic and social trajectory of the country. By supporting and empowering women entrepreneurs, India can drive job creation, economic growth, and social change for generations to come.