Maharashtra Emerges as India's Startup Capital with 45% of Ventures Led by Women Entrepreneurs

Maharashtra has become India's leading hub for startups, with the highest number of registered ventures nationwide. Nearly 45% of these are spearheaded by women, according to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. During the Innovation Mahakumbh 2025 inauguration at SNDT Women's University in Juhu, he highlighted the significant role women entrepreneurs will play in achieving India's goal of a USD 5 trillion economy.

Women Entrepreneurs Driving Growth

Fadnavis emphasised that Maharashtra's youth and women entrepreneurs are crucial to India's economic progress. He stated, "It is a matter of pride that Maharashtra has the highest number of registered startups in India and 45 per cent of these are led by women." The state government has introduced policies to support new entrepreneurs, with collaboration between the government and universities to assist young innovators.

The chief minister noted that innovation today extends beyond creating new products; it also involves simplifying life. When ideas become market realities, they boost the economy. Technologies like artificial intelligence and data analytics are speeding up this process. The Startup India initiative, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has positioned India as the world's third-largest startup ecosystem, with potential to soon reach second place.

Legacy of Empowerment

Fadnavis recalled social reformer Maharshi Dhondo Keshav Karve's legacy. Karve founded the women's university in 1916, before women in Britain had voting rights. This foresight has ushered in a new era of women's empowerment and innovation in Maharashtra. At the event, innovations by women entrepreneurs were showcased, and Fadnavis interacted with innovators and honoured top startup ideas in healthcare, agriculture, and transport management.

State Skill Development Minister Mangalprabhat Lodha highlighted Maharashtra's rapid progress in education and innovation. He expressed confidence that the state will soon lead nationwide. Lodha assured ongoing government support for SNDT University and acknowledged the vital contributions of women entrepreneurs.

A pre-incubation centre was inaugurated on campus to further support budding entrepreneurs. This initiative aims to nurture innovative ideas from inception to market realisation. The state's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship is evident through these efforts.

Maharashtra's focus on empowering women and supporting startups is paving the way for significant economic growth. The collaboration between government bodies and educational institutions is crucial in nurturing future innovators. As more women lead ventures, their impact on the economy will be substantial.

With inputs from PTI