Launched by ACT For Women in 2023, the Women in India’s Startup Ecosystem Report (WISER) found that women made up 35 percent of the startup workforce in 2022 (the corresponding figure for the corporate sector was 19 percent) and indicated that, with timely and targeted action, that number can rise to 50 percent by 2030. However, it also highlighted the need for deepened focus as 10 years into their careers, 8 out of 10 men in startups occupy Director-level positions or higher, compared to only 5 in 10 women. 

At ACT, we believe strongly that the problem is not women but the systems around them and so, to build on this actionable insight, we partnered with Harappa education (now acquired by UpGrad) through a strategic grant to pilot a transformative Women’s Leadership Program designed to bolster the representation of women leaders within Indian startups. The pilot cohort of 28 high-potential women managers from varied backgrounds were given the opportunity to hone critical skills such as personal branding, professional networking, and negotiation in male-dominated settings over a 12 week period. The program included 6 self-paced virtual courses, 2 strength assessments, 3 live masterclasses, fireside chats and an in-person city meet. For instance, the “Networking: The Skill That Never Stops Giving” course taught participants the nuances of creating meaningful professional relationships, while the “Get Out of Your Own Way” session addressed internal interferences like imposter syndrome. The cohort also benefited from Thrive Drills, which reinforced these concepts in practical scenarios. The program also went well beyond the learner and engaged a sponsor from the startup on a parallel journey of learning gender-agnostic decision making, inclusive leadership techniques and more. 

The results have been promising. A significant majority of participants reported increased confidence in building their professional networks, crafting personal brands, and supporting other women in their fields. Many experienced positive shifts in self-awareness, with 73% showing improvements in networking and 59% becoming more adept at handling challenging conversations. Feedback from participants highlighted the program’s impact, with several noting newfound confidence, enhanced communication skills, and a commitment to support other women. 

As ACT For Women continues its mission to foster a diverse and inclusive startup ecosystem, the Women’s Leadership Program stands as a powerful model for nurturing future women leaders in India holistically without solely putting the onus on women themselves.