Think differernt and you find solution : Aravindavalli emerges as first women of the state to run her industry with solar power

 Aravindavalli, 45-year-old woman entrepreneur of Nammane Industries has emerged as the first woman industrialist of the state to completely run her industry with solar power. She runs the factory to manufactures bowls, plates, cups and the like from areca leaves in large numbers, which is then supplied to leading caterers and religious institutions across the city. It is her initiative and way out to overcome Bangalore Electricity Supply Company’s (Bescom) delay in providing power connection to her industrial unit at Banashankari.

Schemes for women entrepreneurs

In order to  facilitate employment opportunities for women, the micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) ministry launched special, dedicated schemes for Women Entrepreneurship Development.

The schemes are  Trade Related Entrepreneurship Assistance and Development (TREAD) Scheme and Mahila Coir Yojana. The TREAD Scheme aims at economic empowerment of women entrepreneurs by providing them with training, information and counselling  related to trades, products and services. Under this scheme financial loans are also provided by nationalised banks and grants by GOI at the rate of 30 percent of the loan subject to maximum limit of Rs.30 lakh through NGOs for capacity building and for undertaking self-employment ventures by women in non-farm activities.

Under Mahila Coir Yojana, financial assistance is provided for motorized ratts for spinning coir yarn to women artisans after giving training.Government provides motorized ratts/motorized traditional ratts at 75 percent cost subsidy subject to a maximum ceiling of Rs.7,500 for motorized ratts and Rs.3,200 for motorized traditional ratts. The remaining 25 percent is raised by the beneficiaries.

Fund allocated for these schemes during the current year (2015-16) is Rs.6.70 crore.

Design to me is not arty flashy but a solution which can help people at macro or micro levels says Shruti Goyal Rawat, Founder and Design Head, Designembryo in interview taken by Dr. Akansha Jain

1) Please introduce yourself

 

I am Shruti Goyal Rawat, Founder and Design Head,  Designembryo - a multidisciplinary graphic design Studio. I'm a Visual Communication designer, a consultant, a blogger and an entrepreneur...an individual who believes in creating MEANINGFUL DESIGNS…

Design to me is not arty flashy but a solution which can help people at macro or micro levels. It is not just about making pretty pictures but to conceptualize ideas which strike just the right balance, can bring emotions, and a beautiful :) on the viewer’s face.

2) What is the motivation behind starting your venture?

I always dreamt of having my own space and studio up and running, since when i did my Masters in design from MITID, Pune and then worked with some excellent agencies and design houses in Pune.

That time, my passion was like gasoline in the tank, but i needed a steering wheel to help me go where i wanted to go. My training at MITID, Pune and work stint with agencies and design houses helped me gain the right experience, hone my skills, and channelize my energies in the right direction. 

Well!  i got the biggest kick to start of my own after marriage, as they say you do get one sometime in your life. Being married to a merchant navy engineer had its own ups & downs and hence began the journey of taking up freelance projects and eventually a real big push from my better-half to start a 'design studio'.

With more and more design maturity penetrating in Indian markets and the plunge of youngsters getting into their own start-ups, there has emerged a huge market in India for graphic design too. Well! If you are sincere towards your work and love what you do, this can be an enough reason for getting motivated to work on our own.

Also, I've been a person who always wanted some mind space & creative freedom to turn my ideas into reality else it reaped into frustration. My studio is like my child, that definitely provided me the right kind of atmosphere & space to deliver design solutions to my clients that are meaningful and functional at the same time.

3) Please provide information regarding the products/services you offer to world and state how are they beneficial for us. 

We are a small studio energized by the challenge of understanding business goals and design requirements and then translating them further into meaningful, profitable design solutions that exponentially improves an organisation's visibility, credibility and success.

We have successfully provided design services like Brand development, Logo Design , Print/ publications, Packaging, Web & social media, Space graphics, Events & exhibitions, and Signage/ way-finding solutions, to companies across varied sectors like Pharmaceutical, Wellness, Hospitals, Hospitality, Real Estate, Start-ups, Beauty, Education etc.

Some of our latest works can be seen at: www.designembryo.wordpress.com

4). What are the start-up challenges? 

Managing multiple things simultaneously and switching gears from one to another is one of the biggest challenge of a start-up. Staying productive can be tough at times. An entrepreneur has to stay productive and time after time, overcome the temptation to slack so that they can brainstorm new ideas, find fresh solutions, and get things done—all while hitting deadlines and keeping things under budget.

At the same time, i also feel that more than challenges, a start-up rather brings with it a lot of positives too... No 9-5 timing restrictions, Immense self-learning, being more self-reliant, personal as well as professional growth, learning to manage time, and finally making you a jack of all trades than being just an expert... are just a few advantages of owning a start-up.

5). Were there any challenges being a woman entrepreneur?

In India, we live in a Patriarchal society, where women still do face a conflict of performing of home role along with managing their professional responsibilities. This essentially poses as a very knotty challenge sometimes, as there comes an added responsibility and moral pressure over and above being a 'business entrepreneur', which in itself carries its share of challenges to run business successfully in today's hard-hitting competition.

Well! even now Indian family set-ups are such that the women do have to switch gears between managing home and office and incase the are unable to do so, they are not looked up respectably by the family members.

This no doubt remains as a challenge for almost all women in India. However, I would say the urge to stay 'SELF-RELIANT' and 'KEEP MOVING' should always be kept alive.

6) How your family reacted on starting a business? 

My parents & my family has always been quite supportive of me working on my own and running my studio. Infact, they have always dreamt the same with me... Nevertheless, another earning hand to the family is always a support.

Initial days of beginning were more difficult and i did took a while to make people understand that sitting at home may not work for me and i would like to utilize my skills whichever possible way. Well! this has to be learnt and comes as a by product of going up the ladder sometimes.

7) What are your future plans ? 

I would love to see Designembryo, growing from a small 10 people studio to a 50 people organisation, that  encompasses colossal capability to handle all sorts of design requirements offline as well as online and create more and more meaningful design solutions for the welfare of the society at large.

8) Any other information you want to share to world.

I feel if you have passion to do something and really want to do it...just let bygones be bygones. Rather, listen to your heart and 'Just go for it'. Swoosh.

Nimisha Verma: The ‘Artistic’ Entrepreneur

Udaipur, the city of lakes is no less than an art hub. From miniature paintings to marble marvels, ingenious photography to traditional jewelry; the city provides dimensions for every artist to explore the creativity that lies underneath and endows with a platform that reaches far.

One such young, female artist of the city is Nimisha Verma who quickly climbed the ladder of success through her virtual boutique NimishaVerma.com that lays emphasis on hand crafted elegant pieces, kids’ occasion wear, royal quilts, home décor as well as wedding and corporate give away.

Soon to launch her new venture ‘Mini Me,’ a designer label for the mother & kids, Nimisha has infused craftsmanship with contemporary art.

A NIFT graduate in Masters of Fashion Management, Nimisha struggled with her mother for the initial 3 years in a venture called Awesome Attire during which she completed her post graduation, worked with designer duo Shyamal and Bhumika and finally chose to come back to Udaipur and expand the business with her mom.

Here is an excerpt of the interview  Devika Sisodia ( Taken for udaipurtimes.com)  took with the designer:

Q. From designing clothes for adults to now to toddlers, how has the transition been?

A. We used to design clothes for children in Awesome as well. However, the focus was more on adults. The decision to get into kids’ wear was a strategic one. I realized that very few outlets actually design kids’ wear and that too for occasions – hence, the decision.

The transition has not been that easy, however, since I have experience in designing, it’s been a pleasure. I lay a lot emphasis on detailing which actually brings in uniqueness to the products I deliver. But of course the best part is their happy face to get a new dress as compared to an adult.

Apart from catering to the kids’ category I am also experimenting with adult clothes range. For instance I started something called Mini Me, which caters to mother daughter combos. I also customize clothes which has driven me to take some bold decisions, something similar to Mini Me.

Q. What inspired you to plunge into the sector (for kids) which is more of a ‘brand centric’ rather than ‘designer centric’?

Unlike the general notion, I believe that the kids’ sector is more to do with design than the brand. Brand in my opinion is an entity which needs to be built. Before that stage is reached its about letting your work speak for yourself. I am on that stage right now. I firmly believe that consequently I will be able to carve a niche for myself in this industry.

Q. What has been the biggest challenge in the journey?

Whenever you plan to start something new, there are always some people who do not believe in you. They will try their best to pull you down. The biggest challenge was not to lose focus and keep working towards the goal. But I am thankful to my parents who really supported me through my thick and thin. My mother especially who started her business from scratch understood my dilemmas extremely well. I feel lucky to have her around and her guidance.

Q. The brand ‘Nimisha Verma’ has been highlighted in various publications across India. Tell us about that.

Well, I have been lucky to have come across media opportunities often. A new comer on the block is usually not considered as a suitable candidate for a profile. But, I have been featured in Femina, my alma mater’s (NIFT) publication which will be published next month as well as among the top 15 websites of Udaipur on UdaipurTimes.com. There was one more article which appeared on an online fashion magazine called Blah n More. I’ve also been covered by Femina for a short blurb.

Q. What is that one quality of you that has made you reach at this point of your life?

I think the most important aspect has been my strong will power to overcome the obstacles and not to lose heart while dealing with professional and personal challenges. If you live a vision, you shall only stop once you have attained it. I was never afraid of taking risks.

Q. How do you see women entrepreneurship in the days to come?

Today’s woman is more empowered and independent. History is a witness that women have always been subjected to animosities, like staying at home and looking after the household. This has helped us evolve as great managers. As you know entrepreneurship is all about effective management, I think in subsequent years women entrepreneurship is bound to expand and burst through horizons as today’s woman knows how to set a perfect balance between her personal and professional life and also, the families have become supportive. In my case, my husband and mother in law were equally understanding. They supported my passion for my work and motivated me in the best possible way.

Q. What are your future plans?

Well my journey has just begun. All I can say is that I look forward to a potential future filled with more creative ideas. I see a targeted online expansion accompanied by fulfilling aspirations of more craftsmen. The more the merrier, isn’t it?

Source: http://udaipurtimes.com/interview-nimisha-verma-the-artistic-entrepreneur/

Only 18 countries have no law which is discriminating in nature for women around the globe: World, Business and the Law 2016 report revealed

Women around the world have restrictions from doing certain work as they are females. This fact is visible and prevalent in around 100 countries around the world. There is atleast one discriminating law that makes discrimination against women in around 150 countries worldwide. Only 18 countries have no law which is discriminating in nature. This findings were revealed by World, Business and the Law 2016 report. It also revealed that women of 32 countries cannot apply for passports in same manner as males can apply.
The report has special mention of India introduction of quota on female representation on corporate boards which states that  at least one board member of every listed company must be a woman.

Don’t be afraid to fail or make mistakes...Says Ishita Sud, Founder and Design Head of Creative Pulp Design Studio, a design/communication start up

1)    Please introduce about yourself

I am Ishita, Founder and Design Head of Creative Pulp Design Studio, a design/communication start up.

2)    What is the motivation behind starting your venture?

After working with some of the best BTL & Digital agencies for a decade, where deadlines and long hours rule your world, there is very little time one gets for ones own self and experience life. Something, which I feel, is extremely important for a creative person to continue feeling joy in ones work. Also I saw a lot of women giving up their career in advertising once they went the family way.

All of this really inspired me to work towards aiming to create a design studio which not only provides great communication solutions to their clients but also create work opportunity for women who are passionate about graphics/content etc  and would want to continue working in the comfort of their homes or in a very informal, comfortable environment. In the last one year of our conception, we have aimed to pick up selective but interesting projects. Concentrating on quality rather than quantity. 

3)    Please provide information regarding the products/services you offer to world and state how are they beneficial for us.

In the last year of operation, we’ve had the opportunity to work with and garner the trust of some excellent teams at AIMA, FSecure, Natural Bath & Body, and MANN India. Together we’ve created effective and memorable communication ranging from websites and packaging for product launch to digital campaigns for product promotion.

4)    What are the startup challenges?

Biggest challenge is for people to respect and take our work seriously.  People wanting good quality work but not necessarily ready to pay according to what one deserve.

5)    Were there any challenges being a woman entrepreneur?

Fortunately I havnt faced any gender inequality yet. Majorly have come across clients who are superbly encouraging, though it does sometime takes a while for a few, far between to believe that one can “handle” the pressure, being a woman entrepreneur.

6)    How her family reacted on starting a business? 

Both my parents and siblings were extremely supportive. The only piece of advice my mum gave was to never work without part payment at the start of a project, which I have stuck to and has helped me tremendously.

7)    What are the future plans? 

Nurture Creative Pulp Design to become a name that represents quality communication ideas. Always create an organic service experience for our clients. And for anyone joining the team to enjoy a balanced creative environment.

8)    Any other information you want to share to world.

Don’t be afraid to fail or make mistakes. And never think that as a young woman you only have a limited time to polish your career, till you get married. If you have an idea, work on it with conviction and passion. No matter if the world thinks otherwise.

http://www.creativepulpdesign.com/

Women entrepreneurs : Focus of Angel Investors all around the globe

All around the globe funding opportunities are coming for women entrepreneurs. Angel Investors are focusing on funding women entrepreneurs so that they can flourish. Few funding avenues available are:
1) Kenya Women Investment Company:This group is operational in east and south Africa and aims at providing seed funding to women entrepreneurs
2) Kenya Women Microfinance Bank Limited (KWFT),It is institution serving only women entrepreneurs and has more than 600000 clients.
3) The Women’s Investment Fund: It is Nigeria's female focussed investment fund .It provides financial assistance to women to run their business.   
4) Women’s Investment Portfolio Holding Limited: It is company which focuses on investment for women entrepreneurs and is managed by black women in South Africa. 
5) Angel Investor Network Indonesia, ANGIN is an angel investor group focusing on promoting female entrepreneurs and empowering women to increase overall participation in the Indonesian economy 
6) Aspire: It is run by Capital for Enterprise Ltd and focuses on providing funds to women entrepreneurs whose enterprises are listed in UK. 
7) Incito Ventures: This female-focused investor network is dedicated to provide seed funding to women entrepreneurs and they also offer social impact accelerator. 
8) Investing Women: It is for women entrepreneurs who want to flourish in Scottish economy. 
9) 37 Angels: 37 Angels invests between $50K and $150K of seed capital in early-stage ventures. 
10) Astia: This innovative, global not-for-profit organization propels women’s full participation as entrepreneurs and leaders in high-growth businesses around the world. 
11) Golden Seeds: They have invested huge funds on women led enterprises. They provide venture funds after considering applications at chargeable basis. 
12) Pax World Global Women’s Equality Fund: This global equity fund seeks to grow capital over the long term by investing in the common and/or preferred stock of companies that are leaders in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment. 
13) Pipeline Fellowship: They accepts applications from all US. 
14) Springboard Enterprises: Springboard invests in women-led, high-growth technology-oriented companies. 
15) The JumpFund:  The Jump Fund invests women’s capital in early-stage, female-led LLC or C-corporations in Chattanooga, TN or the southeast region of the U.S.
16) Women’s Donor Network: WDN members individually and collectively provide around $200 million a year to advance the movement for social change. 
17) Women’s Venture Capital Fund: It also focuses on providing investment to women entrepreneurs.

For more information visit their websites and one can read more on http://blog.girltank.org/angel-investors-looking-for-women-entrepreneurs/