In a bid to seriously push for a more women inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystem in the country, Whatsapp has partnered with Indian Government think tank Niti Aayog, to spruce up women led entrepreneurship in the country.
Under this partnership, WhatsApp, in collaboration with Niti Aayog, will announce an annual calendar of events aimed at capacity building of the women entrepreneurs and evolve specific programmes aimed at addressing challenges being faced by women entrepreneurs.
And its not just events, Whatsapp will also be providing capital to women entrepreneurs under Niti Aayog’s Women Transforming India (WTI) Awards 2019. The winners of these award will get $100,000 from Whatsapp.
“It’s our honour to partner with NITI Aayog to help support the future women business leaders of India,” said Will Cathcart, Global Head of WhatsApp, at a small business event here.
“Small businesses are the backbone of a strong economy and I am proud of the role WhatsApp can play in helping build the next generation of India’s women entrepreneurs,” Cathcart said.
The WTI awards, which are held annually, are organised by Niti Aayog and the United Nations. The intent is to award some of the most inspiring women entrepreneurship stories from across India.
“India has one of the most vibrant startup ecosystems, and the next big disruptions will be driven by women-led enterprises, with digital medium being the biggest enabler,” said Amitabh Kant, CEO of NITI Aayog.
“This partnership with WhatsApp underlines our mutual commitment to support the aspirations of women entrepreneurs in India,” he added.
