Rs 3,100 Cr invested in Women-led Startups fostering Inclusivity: Report

By: WE Staff | Saturday, 1 February 2025

• 149 Women-led Startups received Rs 3,100 cr Investment
• Key Reforms include Abolishment of the Angel Tax, Safe Harbor Rules, etc
• Startup India Initiative recognized women directors in Startups

The Economic Survey 2024-25, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, shows Rs 3,100 crore invested in 149 women-led startups through Alternative Investment Funds. This is part of India's efforts to support women entrepreneurs and foster a more inclusive startup ecosystem. Key reforms include abolishing angel tax, safe harbor rules, and streamlined transfer pricing assessments.

As of October 31, 2024, 73,151 startups with at least one woman director have been recognized under the Startup India Initiative, accounting for nearly half of the 1,52,139 supported by the government. Government initiatives like the Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme and Credit Guarantee Scheme have provided financial support, with over Rs 3,100 crore invested in women-led startups.

Survey shows women entrepreneurs receive 90 per cent guarantees and reduced fees under CGSS, with 22 per cent of loans approved, totaling Rs 24.6 crore. Furthermore, 149 women-led startups have received Rs 3,107.11 crore in investment through Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs).

The Women Entrepreneurship Platform and WE Hub are addressing gender barriers in the MSMEs sector, raising Rs 177 crore in funding and incubating 6376 start-ups and SMEs. The Economic Survey 2025 highlights the growing adoption of AI in India's labor market, highlighting its potential benefits but also warning of significant risks. The survey emphasizes the need for sensitivity and social responsibility in AI deployment, particularly in India due to its size and low per capita income.