Neeja Shah Goswami, CEO, Whiskers India
Entrepreneurship is a dream for many, but few possess the necessary skills and gumption to make it a reality. What inspired you to pursue your entrepreneurial dream?
As a woman entrepreneur in the advertising and marketing domain, my inspiration came from recognizing the industry's evolving needs and the opportunity to bring a fresher perspective. I was particularly motivated by the lack of personalized and impactful strategies for smaller brands striving to make their mark. I wanted to create a space where creativity and results-driven solutions would meet, empowering businesses to tell their unique stories effectively.
The turning point was when I realized that my vision, coupled with my passion for storytelling and strategizing, could truly make a difference. Watching the brands grow through the innovative campaigns that I have spearheaded has been incredibly fulfilling. For me, entrepreneurship hasn’t been just a career choice but also a dynamic opportunity to lead with purpose and reshape the way brands connect with their audiences.
The Indian startup ecosystem is thriving, but perfection is still a work in progress. What is one change you would suggest in the immediate future?
Well, the one change that I would love to see in the Indian start-up ecosystem would be the availability of better access to funding and mentorship for women-led businesses. While things are improving, it’s still a challenge for many women to break through biases and gain the same level of investor confidence as their male counterparts.
We need more programs and platforms that are specifically designed to support women entrepreneurs—whether it’s through funding, mentorship, or networking opportunities. It’s not just about fairness; it’s also about recognizing the potential that women bring to the table and giving them the tools to succeed. When women thrive, their businesses thrive, and that ultimately drives growth for everyone.
