Discover the Top 10 Women in Tech Startups in India, pioneering innovation across ecommerce, education, fintech, and more. From Nykaa’s beauty revolution to UpGrad’s online education platform, explore how these visionary founders are reshaping industries with technology and entrepreneurship. In recent years, India has witnessed a surge in women-led tech startups, breaking barriers and making significant strides in various industries. These innovative ventures not only showcase the entrepreneurial spirit of Indian women but also contribute significantly to the country’s startup ecosystem. Here, we highlight ten remarkable women-led tech startups in India, their founders, founding details, locations, and overviews, illustrating their impact and accomplishments.
Table of Contents
1. Zilingo
Founder: Ankiti Bose and Dhruv Kapoor
Founded: 2015
Location: Bangalore, India
Zilingo, founded by Ankiti Bose and Dhruv Kapoor, started as a fashion and lifestyle marketplace but quickly expanded to incorporate technology-driven solutions for supply chain management in the fashion industry. Based in Bangalore, Zilingo leverages AI and data analytics to help small merchants scale their businesses efficiently.
| Name | Zilingo |
|---|---|
| Founder | Ankiti Bose and Dhruv Kapoor |
| Founded | 2015 |
| Location | Bangalore, India |
| Overview | Zilingo is a fashion and lifestyle marketplace that provides tech-enabled solutions for supply chain management. |
Founded by Ankiti Bose and Dhruv Kapoor in 2015, Zilingo began as a fashion and lifestyle marketplace but quickly evolved into a technology-driven platform revolutionizing supply chain management in the fashion industry. Based in Bangalore, Zilingo utilizes AI and data analytics to empower small merchants, enabling them to scale their businesses efficiently. The platform connects suppliers directly with consumers, offering a wide range of fashion and lifestyle products while streamlining the supply chain process through innovative tech solutions.
Also read: Top 10 Women in Tech Startups in India
2. Nykaa
Founder: Falguni Nayar
Founded: 2012
Location: Mumbai, India
Nykaa, founded by Falguni Nayar, revolutionized the beauty and wellness industry in India by combining ecommerce with a curated selection of beauty products and services. The platform has expanded to include Nykaa Fashion and Nykaa Man, catering to a wide range of consumer needs in the digital space.
| Name | Nykaa |
|---|---|
| Founder | Falguni Nayar |
| Founded | 2012 |
| Location | Mumbai, India |
| Overview | Nykaa is a leading ecommerce platform in beauty and wellness, offering a curated selection of products and services. |
Established by Falguni Nayar in 2012, Nykaa has become a household name in India’s beauty and wellness industry. Headquartered in Mumbai, Nykaa started as an ecommerce platform offering a curated selection of beauty products and services. Over the years, it has expanded its portfolio to include Nykaa Fashion and Nykaa Man, catering to diverse consumer needs in the digital space. Nykaa’s success lies in its seamless integration of technology with personalized customer experiences, setting new standards for beauty retail in India.
Also read: Top 10 Digital Transformation Startups in India
3. UpGrad
Founder: Ronnie Screwvala and Mayank Kumar
Founded: 2015
Location: Mumbai, India
UpGrad, co-founded by Ronnie Screwvala and Mayank Kumar, addresses the gap in higher education through online courses in collaboration with universities and industry experts. It focuses on upskilling and reskilling professionals across various domains, leveraging technology to provide accessible and quality education.
| Name | UpGrad |
|---|---|
| Founder | Ronnie Screwvala and Mayank Kumar |
| Founded | 2015 |
| Location | Mumbai, India |
| Overview | UpGrad offers online courses in collaboration with universities and industry experts, focusing on upskilling and reskilling professionals. |
Co-founded by Ronnie Screwvala and Mayank Kumar in 2015, UpGrad addresses the gap in higher education through its innovative online learning platform. Based in Mumbai, UpGrad collaborates with universities and industry experts to offer courses that enhance professional skills and facilitate career transitions. The platform leverages technology to deliver high-quality educational content, making learning accessible and flexible for individuals seeking to upskill or reskill in various domains.
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4. UrbanClap (now Urban Company)
Founder: Abhiraj Bhal, Varun Khaitan, and Raghav Chandra
Founded: 2014
Location: Gurugram, India
UrbanClap, co-founded by Abhiraj Bhal, Varun Khaitan, and Raghav Chandra, started as a marketplace for local services and has evolved into Urban Company, offering a wide range of home services through a technology-enabled platform. It connects consumers with service professionals efficiently.
| Name | UrbanClap (Urban Company) |
|---|---|
| Founder | Abhiraj Bhal, Varun Khaitan, and Raghav Chandra |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Location | Gurugram, India |
| Overview | Urban Company provides a technology-enabled platform connecting consumers with service professionals for home services. |
Founded by Abhiraj Bhal, Varun Khaitan, and Raghav Chandra in 2014 and headquartered in Gurugram, UrbanClap (now Urban Company) has transformed how consumers access home services. The platform connects users with trusted service professionals for a variety of household tasks, from plumbing to beauty services, using a tech-enabled booking and service delivery system. Urban Company’s emphasis on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction has made it a leader in India’s burgeoning home services market.
Also read: Top 10 Telecommunications Startups in India
5. Mobikwik
Founder: Bipin Preet Singh and Upasana Taku
Founded: 2009
Location: Gurugram, India
Mobikwik, founded by Bipin Preet Singh and Upasana Taku, is a digital wallet and payment gateway platform that facilitates online transactions securely. It has expanded its services to include digital credit, insurance, and investments, catering to a broad spectrum of financial needs.
| Name | Mobikwik |
|---|---|
| Founder | Bipin Preet Singh and Upasana Taku |
| Founded | 2009 |
| Location | Gurugram, India |
| Overview | Mobikwik is a digital wallet and payment gateway platform offering a range of financial services including credit, insurance, and investments. |
Established in 2009 by Bipin Preet Singh and Upasana Taku and based in Gurugram, Mobikwik is a leading digital wallet and payment gateway platform in India. Initially focusing on mobile recharge and bill payments, Mobikwik has expanded its services to include digital credit, insurance, and investments. The platform’s user-friendly interface and robust security features have made it a preferred choice for millions of Indians looking for convenient and secure digital financial solutions.
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6. Licious
Founder: Abhay Hanjura and Vivek Gupta
Founded: 2015
Location: Bangalore, India
Licious, co-founded by Abhay Hanjura and Vivek Gupta, disrupts the fresh meat and seafood market in India with a tech-driven approach to sourcing, processing, and delivering quality products to consumers’ doorsteps. It combines innovation with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction.
| Name | Licious |
|---|---|
| Founder | Abhay Hanjura and Vivek Gupta |
| Founded | 2015 |
| Location | Bangalore, India |
| Overview | Licious is a tech-driven platform offering fresh meat and seafood, focusing on quality and customer satisfaction through innovative sourcing and delivery. |
Co-founded by Abhay Hanjura and Vivek Gupta in 2015 and headquartered in Bangalore, Licious has revolutionized the fresh meat and seafood market in India. Using technology to ensure quality and freshness, Licious offers a seamless online shopping experience for meat lovers, delivering products directly to consumers’ doorsteps. The platform’s commitment to quality control and customer satisfaction has positioned it as a trusted brand in the competitive food delivery industry.
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7. Cashify
Founder: Mandeep Manocha
Founded: 2013
Location: Gurugram, India
Cashify, founded by Mandeep Manocha, is an online platform that facilitates the selling and buying of used electronics. It provides a hassle-free experience for consumers looking to sell their old devices and ensures responsible recycling and reuse practices.
| Name | Cashify |
|---|---|
| Founder | Mandeep Manocha |
| Founded | 2013 |
| Location | Gurugram, India |
| Overview | Cashify is an online platform enabling the buying and selling of used electronics with a focus on responsible recycling and reuse practices. |
Founded by Mandeep Manocha in 2013 and based in Gurugram, Cashify simplifies the process of selling and buying used electronics online. The platform provides an easy and transparent way for consumers to sell their old smartphones, laptops, and other gadgets, offering competitive prices and ensuring responsible recycling practices. Cashify’s focus on customer convenience and environmental sustainability has made it a preferred platform for buying and selling pre-owned electronics in India.
Also read: Top 10 Green Energy Startups in India
8. Vedantu
Founder: Vamsi Krishna, Pulkit Jain, Saurabh Saxena, and Anand Prakash
Founded: 2011
Location: Bangalore, India
Vedantu, co-founded by Vamsi Krishna, Pulkit Jain, Saurabh Saxena, and Anand Prakash, is an online tutoring platform offering personalized learning experiences to students. It uses technology to connect educators with learners, providing live interactive sessions and adaptive learning tools.
| Name | Vedantu |
|---|---|
| Founder | Vamsi Krishna, Pulkit Jain, Saurabh Saxena, and Anand Prakash |
| Founded | 2011 |
| Location | Bangalore, India |
| Overview | Vedantu is an online tutoring platform offering personalized learning experiences through live interactive sessions and adaptive learning tools. |
Co-founded by Vamsi Krishna, Pulkit Jain, Saurabh Saxena, and Anand Prakash in 2011 and headquartered in Bangalore, Vedantu is an online tutoring platform that offers personalized learning experiences to students. Through live interactive sessions and adaptive learning tools, Vedantu connects qualified educators with learners, helping them achieve academic success in a supportive online environment. The platform’s innovative approach to education and technology has garnered widespread acclaim, making it a trusted choice for students and parents alike.
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9. SHEROES
Founder: Sairee Chahal
Founded: 2014
Location: Noida, India
SHEROES, founded by Sairee Chahal, is a women’s community platform that empowers women through access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities. It leverages technology to create a supportive network for professional and personal growth.
| Name | SHEROES |
|---|---|
| Founder | Sairee Chahal |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Location | Noida, India |
| Overview | SHEROES is a women’s community platform providing access to resources and mentorship for professional and personal growth. |
Founded by Sairee Chahal in 2014 and based in Noida, SHEROES is a women’s community platform dedicated to empowering women through access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities. The platform leverages technology to create a supportive network for professional and personal growth, offering career guidance, skill development programs, and a safe space for women to connect and collaborate. SHEROES plays a pivotal role in promoting gender diversity and inclusion in India’s workforce and startup ecosystem.
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10. YourStory
Founder: Shradha Sharma
Founded: 2008
Location: Bengaluru, India
YourStory, founded by Shradha Sharma, is a media platform that showcases stories of entrepreneurs and startups in India. It plays a crucial role in the startup ecosystem by providing insights, inspiration, and networking opportunities through its digital content and events.
| Name | YourStory |
|---|---|
| Founder | Shradha Sharma |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Location | Bengaluru, India |
| Overview | YourStory is a media platform featuring stories of entrepreneurs and startups in India, providing insights and networking opportunities. |
Established by Shradha Sharma in 2008 and headquartered in Bengaluru, YourStory is India’s leading media platform for showcasing stories of entrepreneurs and startups. Through its digital content, events, and community engagement initiatives, YourStory highlights the journeys and achievements of innovators across various sectors. The platform serves as a catalyst for inspiration, networking, and knowledge sharing within India’s vibrant startup ecosystem, fostering entrepreneurship and driving positive change.
Also read: Top 10 Digital Marketing Institute in Hyderabad
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s) – Top 10 Women in Tech Startups in India
1. What are some notable women-led tech startups in India?
- Zilingo: Founded by Ankiti Bose and Dhruv Kapoor, Zilingo is a fashion and lifestyle marketplace known for its tech-enabled supply chain solutions.
- Nykaa: Founded by Falguni Nayar, Nykaa is a prominent ecommerce platform specializing in beauty and wellness products.
- UpGrad: Co-founded by Ronnie Screwvala and Mayank Kumar, UpGrad offers online courses and educational programs in collaboration with universities.
- UrbanClap (Urban Company): Founded by Abhiraj Bhal, Varun Khaitan, and Raghav Chandra, Urban Company provides home services through a technology-driven platform.
- Mobikwik: Founded by Bipin Preet Singh and Upasana Taku, Mobikwik is a digital wallet and payment gateway platform.
- Licious: Founded by Abhay Hanjura and Vivek Gupta, Licious is a tech-driven platform for fresh meat and seafood delivery.
- Cashify: Founded by Mandeep Manocha, Cashify facilitates the buying and selling of used electronics online.
- Vedantu: Co-founded by Vamsi Krishna, Pulkit Jain, Saurabh Saxena, and Anand Prakash, Vedantu offers online tutoring and educational services.
- SHEROES: Founded by Sairee Chahal, SHEROES is a women’s community platform focusing on empowerment and mentorship.
- YourStory: Founded by Shradha Sharma, YourStory is a media platform that showcases stories of entrepreneurs and startups in India.
2. What sectors do these startups operate in?
These startups operate across various sectors including ecommerce (Nykaa, Zilingo), education technology (UpGrad, Vedantu), consumer services (UrbanClap, Licious), fintech (Mobikwik), media (YourStory), and community platforms (SHEROES).
3. How have these startups impacted their respective industries?
- Innovation: Many of these startups have introduced innovative solutions and business models, disrupting traditional industries.
- Accessibility: They have made products and services more accessible through technology, reaching a broader audience.
- Empowerment: Women-led startups like SHEROES and Nykaa have empowered women both as consumers and entrepreneurs.
- Economic Contribution: These startups contribute significantly to India’s economy through job creation, technological advancement, and market expansion.
4. What challenges have these women entrepreneurs faced in the tech startup ecosystem?
- Funding: Access to funding remains a challenge, as women entrepreneurs often face biases in venture capital.
- Gender Stereotypes: Overcoming gender stereotypes and biases in male-dominated industries can be a barrier.
- Scaling: Scaling operations and managing growth while maintaining quality and customer satisfaction can be challenging.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network and mentorship opportunities are often limited for women entrepreneurs.
5. How are these startups contributing to gender diversity in the tech industry?
- Role Models: Women founders and leaders serve as role models, inspiring more women to enter and succeed in tech entrepreneurship.
- Employment: By hiring diverse talent and promoting inclusive workplace practices, these startups contribute to gender diversity.
- Advocacy: Some startups actively advocate for gender equality and inclusion in the tech and startup ecosystem.
6. What is the future outlook for women-led tech startups in India?
- Expansion: With increasing support and recognition, these startups are likely to expand their reach and impact.
- Innovation: Continued innovation in technology and business models will drive growth and competitiveness.
- Influence: Women-led startups will continue to influence industry trends and set benchmarks for innovation and leadership.
Conclusion
These ten women-led tech startups exemplify the innovation and resilience of Indian women entrepreneurs in the tech industry. From ecommerce and edtech to fintech and community platforms, these startups have not only disrupted their respective industries but also paved the way for more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ventures in India’s startup ecosystem. As these startups continue to grow and expand their influence, they inspire the next generation of women leaders to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and contribute to India’s digital economy.
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