Kerala

Sana Thayyil

A panel discussion exploring fundraising, building scalable startups, and the panelists' journeys. Startup pitch clinic exclusively for women founders. Followed by Networking with panelists and startup ecosystem enablersWalk-ins are not allowed, and pre-registration &amp; approval are compulsoryLimited seats, first-come, first-serve

This initiative is exclusively for women entrepreneurs. "WE" want to to build a community of women entrepreneurs and take it to the next level by supporting and helping each other and eradicate a few barriers we face. 

Why an initiative exclusive for women?

Well, there has been a big debate among our team itself on the same question. Some of us supported the fact that entrepreneurship opportunities are rather the same for both genders, thereby questioning the need for an exclusive “Women Only” initiative/community while some opined otherwise. We hope that by the time you finish reading this blog, you will have some answers to it.

The facts

Women entrepreneurs may be defined as ‘Woman or a group of women who initiate, organize and run a business enterprise’. Government of India has defined women entrepreneurs based on women participation in equity and employment of a business enterprise. Accordingly, a woman-run enterprise is defined as ‘An enterprise owned and controlled by a woman having a minimum financial interest of 51% of the capital and giving at least 51% of the employment generated in the enterprise to women’. Women entrepreneurs constitute 10 % of all entrepreneurs in the country.

We might believe that the situation is a little better in the US, but even then, for every nine men raising equity financing to start and scale their businesses, only one woman does, according to a report by the National Women’s Business Council (US).

Women Entrepreneurs also fall into sub groups such as Homepreneurs, Mompreneurs and many more and every sub group has some specific needs. While ‘WE’ initiative will try to cover the larger goals of the community as a whole, we will also try our best to cater to the interests of the sub groups as well.

The problems

Something that has always bothered us is the low participation of women in the events that happen across the city. There are pitch events, co-founder search, founders’ mingle etc. and the sad reality is that typically 90% of the attendees are men. This happens for several reasons. We talked to few women who are running their business or aspiring to start one and here is what we heard:
“Most of the events are highly technology-centric while our businesses may not necessarily involve technology.”
“The comfort factor is missing in such gatherings dominated by men.”
“Many of these events are on weekdays and we can’t leave kids at home without supervision”
“We need peer support, preferably from women like us who have been able to start a venture given the similar circumstances of managing home and work.”
“We cannot attend 2 days hackathon leaving a toddler at home.
It is upsetting. While there is so much happening around us, women entrepreneurs are able to explore only a small fragment.”

We found this well-known but less talked about fact which happens to be an apt descriptionription of reality too:

“Business plan competitions and pitch forums are frequently about bravado and making ridiculous projections. Men excel at this. Women tend to be more conservative. This is the #1 complaint I get from the hundreds of women entrepreneurs I’ve interviewed,” said Vivek Wadhwa, academic, researcher, entrepreneur, and a vocal critic of the under funding of women-led companies by Silicon Valley (and a man). “When they [women] go to angel forums and the like, they feel intimidated and left out.”

What do ‘WE’ intend to do?
‘WE’ at Headstart Network
– want to sincerely put an effort to reduce some of these barriers and help women come out and explore in a community that helps, learns and grows together.
– want to infuse self confidence in first time women entrepreneurs so that they are able to headstart their journey with no constraints felt whatsoever.
– want the ecosystem to hear the needs of women entrepreneurs and support them.
– want not to compete, but complement and collaborate with existing women entrepreneur groups and initiatives.
– want to make the pie bigger for everyone!

How do ‘WE’ see the future?

Picture this.
An ecosystem which understands that if you are willing to start-up and have a family too, that is NOT a problem!
An accelerator that boasts of having your child taken care of in a day care while you work to make that awesome Product in INDIA.
Possibilities are immense. “WE” dream BIG.
“Dream BIG! If it offends someone, so what! Dream Bigger!” – Anonymous


WE Club

Kerala Startup Mission

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars)

My visit to Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) in Kalamassery left a positive impression on me, especially regarding its infrastructure, working procedures, and support for startups. While the transportation aspect was less focused, the journey using a combination of train and bus was relatively convenient and added to the overall experience.

**Infrastructure and Facilities:**
KSUM's infrastructure is impressive, with modern and well-maintained facilities. The startup hub provides a conducive environment for entrepreneurs to work and collaborate. The co-working spaces are spacious, and the availability of high-speed internet ensures seamless connectivity for the startups.

The incubation centers are well-equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including laboratories and prototyping facilities for startups in tech-related fields. The well-designed layout of the premises fosters a sense of community and encourages networking among entrepreneurs.

**Working and Support:**
KSUM's approach to supporting startups is commendable. The organization offers various programs, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help startups grow and thrive. The regular workshops and seminars conducted by industry experts are valuable for gaining insights and knowledge.

During my visit, I interacted with some of the startup teams, and they spoke highly of the support they received from KSUM. The dedicated support staff at KSUM are approachable and genuinely interested in assisting entrepreneurs. Their guidance in navigating the various procedures and paperwork was appreciated by the startups.

**Procedures and Processes:**
While KSUM's support and resources are commendable, there is room for improvement in streamlining certain administrative procedures. As a visitor, I noticed that some startups faced delays in getting their paperwork processed, which can be crucial for their operations. Streamlining these processes further could enhance the overall efficiency of the support system.

**Transportation:**
As for the transportation aspect, my journey to KSUM using the train and bus combination was relatively straightforward. The train ride from Chengannur to Ernakulam was comfortable, and the connectivity between Ernakulam and Kalamassery via train was convenient. The bus ride from HMT Junction to KSUM was relatively short and provided a glimpse of the local surroundings.

In conclusion, Kerala Startup Mission in Kalamassery offers a conducive ecosystem for startups to flourish. The infrastructure and facilities are top-notch, and the organization's commitment to supporting entrepreneurs is evident. While there is scope for streamlining certain administrative procedures, my overall experience was positive, and I would recommend KSUM to aspiring entrepreneurs seeking guidance and support for their ventures.

Here is the right destination for who wanted to tailor the Innovation ideas for the enhanced enviornment as well as who wanted to turn into entrepreneur life in the materialistic era.😭🔥👍

Big campus with many startup companies located. Facilities are good and on the interiors they used recycled things which is really appreciable.

Best place for rent work space. Cozy  ambience

What a great work space. Eventhough it's  still work in progress, this place would be amazing once done. You really don't feel like this is a place in India when you walk in, the architecture is very modern. I Cannot wait for this to become a workspace. I'm here for STAMP competition from skillenza for the Kochi metro. And I am happy with what I see here. Good work by the government.

WeWin Kochi By Headstart WE Club, Kerala Startup Mission & DBS Bank

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