how to start a business as a woman

How to Start a Business as a Woman in India (2025)

Published on March 27, 2025
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10 Min read time
how to start a business as a woman

Quick Summary

  • Recent statistics show that the number of women entrepreneurs is increasing by 22% annually.
  • Women own 36% of small businesses worldwide, & this number is increasing by 5%.
  • According to a report by IBEF, around 20.37% of Indian women are owners of MSMEs & contribute to over 23.3% of the labour force.

Toss aside the glass ceiling! Indian women are making their mark in the business world, driving a wave of change that is reshaping industries. If you’re wondering how to start a business as a woman in India, now is the perfect time to act.

This guide will take you step-by-step through the process of how to start a business as a woman, from identifying your passion to building your brand.

This guide will help you in knowing how to start a business as a woman online and give you the essential skills and inspiration you need to turn your business dreams into reality. From finding funding to managing growth, you’ll have all the resources at your fingertips to succeed. Step up, take charge, and begin your journey as a woman entrepreneur today!

Key Challenges for Women Entrepreneurs

The path to entrepreneurship is rarely a smooth journey, and women entrepreneurs often face challenges that are unique to their experience. When learning how to start a business as a woman, it’s important to recognize these challenges early on. These hurdles can sometimes make the process seem daunting, but they can be overcome with determination and the right support.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common problems faced by women entrepreneurs and how to overcome those hurdles to be able to work on simple business for ladies in India:

  • Societal Expectations: Traditional gender roles can sometimes make it difficult for women to be taken seriously in the business world. Build a strong support network of mentors, investors, and fellow female entrepreneurs who guide and encourage you and understand your struggles.
  • Funding Hurdles: Securing funding can be a significant obstacle for women entrepreneurs. Explore government initiatives and schemes specifically designed to support women-led businesses. Research angel investor networks or venture capitalists who focus on funding businesses led by women. Additionally, crowdfunding platforms can be a great way to raise capital directly from potential customers who believe in your vision.
  • Access to Capital: It is relatively more difficult for women in a patriarchal society to raise funds. This could be due to various reasons, like a lack of contacts, but mostly it is because people do not trust women when it comes to finances.
  • Work-life Balance: Society places unrealistic expectations on women. They are supposed to excel in everything, be it in their professional or personal lives, and be perfect at all times.

How to Start

1. Identify Skill/Interest/Passion

Start by spending some quiet time reflecting on my passions and natural talents. This could involve journaling about activities that you enjoy, and that are fulfilling for you. In this way, one can identify what one likes to do and what one is good at. This is the first step to generate a business idea.

2. Market research

Just identifying a passion, hobby or interest is not enough. One has to do a thorough market research on it and understand which niche can be tapped. Look for market gaps using tools such as Google Trends, industry reports, and competitor analysis, and see what skills of yours align with what the market needs. Also identify your target audience, considering demographics like age, location, income, values, and pain points.

3. Chalking out business plans

In order to secure funding for a plan, all the information that has been researched upon needs to be documented in a proper business plan. When you approach investors all the information should be ready for sharing. Even if one wishes to start a business from home and without investors, a business plan always comes in handy.

4. Secure funding

Some businesses may require large amounts of funding and some may require minimal amounts to start. For instance, a woman who wishes to teach something online may not require large funding. But if a woman wishes to build a fashion brand or a beauty brand then most probably funding would be required.

5. Brand building and promotion

Defining your brand’s mission, vision, values, and unique selling proposition (USP). What makes the business stand out? Please ensure that these elements resonate with the target audience. A user-friendly website would be essential for establishing credibility. The website should communicate what the business does, its products or services , and how customers can purchase or engage with the business.

Low-Investment Business Ideas for Women

how to start a business as a woman

Even if you have a small budget, starting smart with careful research and clear goals can help stretch your resources. With the right mindset and preparation, women entrepreneurs can find ways to build and grow their businesses, no matter the starting point.

Here are some unique business ideas for ladies with low investment that perfectly cater to the strengths and skills women often possess:

1. Online Tutoring

If you have expertise in a particular subject, offering online tutoring services is a great way to start a business with minimal investment. Learning how to start a business as a woman in this field allows you to work from the comfort of your home, making it a flexible and low-cost option.

You can teach students of all ages, sharing your knowledge while earning an income. By understanding how to start a business as a woman, you can build a rewarding career in education, helping others succeed.

  • Investment: Rs. 20,000 – Rs. 50,000 (for laptop, internet)
  • Market Demand: High, as online tutoring is becoming popular.

2. Buying and selling

E-commerce is the most popular trend these days. You can create a platform on which one can buy and sell some products. The products can range from an item to a service (e.g. packers and movers).

3. Making Artistic Products

If you’re skilled at making handmade jewelry, accessories, home decorations, or other crafts, you can start a business selling them. Learning how to start a business as a woman in this field requires minimal investment, mainly for materials like beads, paper, paints, and fabrics.

Handmade and unique products are in demand, making it a great opportunity. You can sell your creations on online platforms or at local exhibitions and markets. Understanding how to start a business as a woman in this area allows you to turn your craft into a profitable venture.

  • Investment: Rs 10,000 – Rs 30,000 (for craft materials)
  • Market Demand: Moderate to high demand
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4. Baking Business

If you have a talent for baking cakes, cookies, bread, and other baked goods, you can start a baking business from home. Learning how to start a business as a woman in this field involves setting up a basic kitchen, getting an oven, and buying the necessary utensils and ingredients.

Once you’re ready, you can take orders locally or promote your products online. You can sell directly to customers or partner with cafes and restaurants. Understanding how to start a business as a woman can help you tap into the high demand for homemade baked goods.

Baking business is one of the best answer for the question “how to start a business as a woman from home”.

  • Investment: Rs 50,000 – Rs 1,00,000 (for oven, utensils, etc.)
  • Market Demand: Very high demand.

5. Event Planning

If you’re highly organized and creative, you can start an event-planning business. As an event planner, you’ll help organize weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, and more. Learning how to start a business as a woman in this field requires minimal investment, mainly for a laptop and marketing materials like flyers or pamphlets.

Once you have the tools, you can promote your services to potential clients. Understanding how to start a business as a woman in event planning allows you to turn your passion for organizing into a profitable career.

  • Investment: Rs 20,000 – Rs 50,000 (for laptop, marketing)
  • Market Demand: Very high demand.

6. Make-up Artist

If you’re skilled in bridal makeup, party makeup, and other makeup styles, you can start a professional makeup artist business from home. Learning how to start a business as a woman in this field requires investing in high-quality makeup products, brushes, lighting, and other tools.

Once you’re set-up, you can offer makeup services for various events and occasions. Understanding how to start a business as a woman in makeup artistry allows you to turn your passion into a successful career with flexibility and creativity.

  • Investment: Rs 30,000 – Rs 80,000 (for makeup products)
  • Market Demand: Very high demand.

7. Home Based Catering/Cooking

If cooking is your passion, you can start a home-based catering business to supply food for private parties, corporate events, and other gatherings. Learning how to start a business as a woman in catering involves setting up a spacious kitchen with appliances, utensils, and crockery.

Once your kitchen is ready, you can start taking orders and serving delicious, home-cooked meals and snacks. Understanding how to start a business as a woman in this field also means marketing your services effectively to grow your business and attract more clients.

  • Investment: Rs 1,00,000 – Rs 3,00,000 (for kitchen equipment)
  • Market Demand: Very high demand.

8. Pet Grooming Services

If you love pets like dogs and cats, you can start a pet grooming service. As a pet groomer, you’ll bathe pets, brush their fur, cut nails, and groom them properly. Learning how to start a business as a woman in this field requires investing in basic equipment like grooming tables, brushes, shampoos, and other tools.

Once you’re set up, you can offer grooming services to pet owners in your area. Understanding how to start a business as a woman in pet grooming allows you to turn your passion for animals into a thriving business.

  • Investment: Rs 75,000 – Rs 2,00,000 (for grooming equipment)
  • Market Demand: Very high demand

9. Salon Services

Passionate about beauty and self-care? a salon can cater to a variety of services such as haircuts, styling, coloring, skincare, nails, and other beauty treatments. In this field it is comparatively easier to start a business as a woman.

10. Fashion Designer

Women are doing very well in the field of fashion. Designers can now start their own ventures without having to depend upon tie-ups or collaboration with bigger fashion design groups. Wondering how to start a business as a woman with no money. Well one can start by working as a freelance designer and then grow in it.

The way Forward

1. Networking

It is essential to create a strong profile highlighting your skills, achievements, and business. Join groups, engage in discussions, and connect with like-minded professionals. Platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, etc. are the most popular ones.

2. Advertising/Promotion

Another important aspect of how to start a business as a woman in India is promoting and advertising the business. Now days digital marketing platforms can help create websites and add for a business to begin with.

3. Collaboration

Collaboration helps both parties gain exposure to each other’s networks and strengthens relationships. Use social media and networking groups to connect with potential collaborators. Look for other entrepreneurs who share similar values, goals, or target audiences.

4. Hiring

It is essential to understand that starting a business is not enough. As the business grows hiring is the need of the hour. This could mean hiring a virtual assistant, an accountant, a marketing specialist, or a freelance content creator who helps in sharing the responsibilities.

5. Delegation

So when it comes to how to start a business as a woman, look at your to-do list and figure out which tasks can be delegated to others. These could be administrative tasks, customer support, or social media management. Building an efficient team is important.

Inspirational Success Stories

India is witnessing a remarkable rise in women entrepreneurs who are breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings. These phenomenal women have become role models for future generations, showing that anything is possible with passion and dedication. When learning how to start a business as a woman in India, it’s inspiring to look at these trailblazers who have built successful companies from the ground up. Their journeys remind us that with the right mindset, determination, and resilience, women can achieve great things in the business world.

Understanding how to start a business as a woman in India means learning from the experiences of these entrepreneurs. They faced numerous challenges but persevered, using creativity and innovation to overcome obstacles. These women have not only succeeded in their own ventures but have also paved the way for others to follow.

Let’s delve into the inspiring journeys of two such women, who arguably hold the topmost positions in the top 10 women entrepreneurs in India, which would make you gain a gold of the characteristics of women entrepreneurs :

1. Falguni Nayar: The Beauty Queen of E-commerce

Falguni Nayar, after a successful investment banking career, identified a gap in the Indian beauty market: the need for a curated online platform for authentic beauty products. At 50, she launched Nykaa in 2012 with ₹20 Lakh of her savings. Initially, it was challenging to get established brands to partner with her new online retailer.

However, Nayar built trust with brands and created a user-friendly platform for Indian women. Nykaa offered a diverse range of beauty products and a seamless online shopping experience, quickly becoming a leader in Indian beauty e-commerce. Today, Nykaa is a multi-billion-dollar company.

2. Richa Singh: Building a Community for Women, by Women

Richa Singh’s entrepreneurial journey is woven from a deep desire to empower women. Recognizing the lack of a safe space for Indian women to connect, share experiences, and access resources, Singh founded SHEROES in 2012.

Singh’s vision for SHEROES extended beyond online interactions. She established SHEROES cafes in major Indian cities, creating physical spaces where women could network, attend workshops, and participate in discussions. Richa Singh’s story highlights the importance of addressing a social need through innovative means. Her success demonstrates that businesses can be powerful agents for social good, fostering connections and empowering communities.

Essential Skills and Traits for Success

The world of entrepreneurship requires a special combination of skills and personal traits, especially for women entrepreneurs. When learning how to start a business as a woman, it’s essential to develop a diverse set of abilities, including leadership, communication, and problem-solving. These skills allow women to navigate the challenges of business with confidence and creativity.

Knowing how to start a business as a woman also means understanding the personal traits that contribute to success. Traits like resilience, determination, and adaptability are crucial for overcoming obstacles. With the right mindset and skill set, women entrepreneurs can build thriving businesses and make a lasting impact.

Here are some key areas where you can focus your development to start a business as a woman in India, as per what women entrepreneurs quote:

  • Leadership Acumen: Great leaders inspire, motivate, and guide their teams toward a shared vision. Develop strong communication and interpersonal skills to foster a positive and productive work environment. Remember, a strong team is the backbone of any successful business.
  • Financial Literacy Fundamentals: The ability to understand financial statements, manage cash flow, and make sound investment decisions is crucial for business success. Invest in financial literacy courses or mentorship programs to equip yourself with the necessary knowledge.
  • Networking Prowess: Building a network of mentors, investors, and potential partners can be invaluable. Attend industry conferences, join online forums specific to your sector, and connect with local business organizations. Don’t be afraid to leverage the power of social media to connect with like-minded individuals and potential customers.
  • Time Management Skills: Balancing business and personal life can be challenging. Effective time management helps you prioritize tasks, stay organized, and maintain productivity. Use tools like calendars or task management apps to streamline your daily schedule, ensuring you make the most of your time as a business owner.

The Government of India has introduced various schemes for women entrepreneurship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1 What is the best business when it comes to how to start a business as a woman?

Some of the best businesses to start as a woman are:

1. Online Tutoring
2. Buying and selling
3. Making Artistic Products
3. Making Artistic Products
5. Event Planning
6. Make-up Artist
7. Home Based Catering/Cooking
8. Pet Grooming Services
9. Salon Services
10. Fashion Designer

Q2 How to start a business as a woman?

To start being a business woman, follow these points

1. Identify Your Passion
2. Research & Plan
3. Build a Network
4. Start Small
5. Stay Consistent

Q3 Which business is 100% profitable?

Online Tutoring or Offline Tutoring is the business that is 100% profitable as there is not much investment and starting at a small scale, you don’t have to pay taxes.

Q4 How to start a business as a woman with no money?

Even if one has no money one can start small businesses that can be successful. One needs to network and identify the requirements of the market and start offering a skill or service that best fills in the gap. All of this can be done from home.

Q5 Can a girl start a business?

Yes a girl can start a business just like anyone else. Success in business is determined by passion, determination, and skills, not gender. You can start with business ideas like Online Tutoring, Baking Business, Make-up Artist etc.

Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor

Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.

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