On September 4, FICCI FLO Kolkata hosted an insightful event at ITC Sonar, Kolkata, featuring two prominent industry leaders, Rohit Bansal, the co-founder of Titan Capital and AceVector Group, and Aarti Gupta, a seasoned investment strategist and chief investment officer at Anikarth Ventures, and national head for FICCI FLO Start-ups. (From left in picture) Aarti Gupta, Shradha Murarka and Rohit Bansal engaged in a compelling discussion about India’s start-up growth and women-led businesses. The event, moderated by Shradha Murarka, chairperson of FLO Kolkata, focused on strategies for growth, investment, women entrepreneurship and the future of the Indian start-up ecosystem. In a special initiative reflecting FICCII FLO’s mission to empower young girls by providing essential resources, Shradha Murarka gifted 20 bicycles to underprivileged girls from the Sunderbans. Another addition to the event was the introduction of Project Anantya, showcasing FLO’s dedication to skill development and empowerment. In collaboration with FLO X Taj Sats, certificates were presented to 12 young women from the NGO Ektara, who successfully completed a skill development training programme. The project aims to equip these women with professional capabilities, enhancing their confidence and potential for brighter futures in their respective careers
Official Press Release photographs
Eleven women from NGO Ektara received certificates for completing a skill development training program in collaboration with FLO X Taj Stats Speaking about the event, chairperson of FICCI FLO Kolkata, Shradha Murarka said: ‘Celebrating the hard work of 11 young women who earned their culinary certificates through the collaboration of Taj SATS and Ektara NGO was a deeply fulfilling moment. It’s initiatives like these that empower women to step into their potential. Additionally, seeing the enthusiasm of the four women who pitched their startups was a reminder of the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit that FLO aims to nurture’ The centerpiece of the event was the discussions which began with Rohit Bansal sharing his entrepreneurial journey and insights on product market fit. Drawing from his experiences with Snapdeal, Bansal emphasised the crucial role of identifying market gaps and aligning a disruptive product to market needs. He elaborated on the importance of a founder’s ability to execute ideas effectively and persevere through challenges, showcasing the value of failure as a learning tool in entrepreneurship
The speakers, Aarti Gupta and Rohit Bansal, discussed India’s bullish prospects in the global startup landscape. Aarti Gupta elaborated on the potential of start-ups, explaining how ideas that disrupt the market, coupled with product market fit, a strong execution team, and passionate founders, are key elements for success. She emphasised the importance of mentorship as a pillar for start-up growth, focusing on the challenges women face in accessing networks and mentorship, and encouraging diversity in the ecosystem. Both speakers discussed India’s bullish prospects in the global startup landscape. They referenced companies like Titan Capital and Mama Earth, noting that strong support networks can drive startups toward remarkable growth. Additionally, Bansal and Gupta stressed that mentorship plays an integral part in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship, while surrounding oneself with the right people is crucial
FICCI FLO members pose with Rohit Bansal after the event. ‘India’s start-up ecosystem is making huge strides and is being watched globally with great anticipation. For us to achieve our full potential, it is crucial to build robust and relevant support systems for women powering Indian start-ups so that Indian start-ups can leverage the full value of India’s diverse and rich talent pool. We must recognise and encourage startups who are building with immense passion, fortitude and resilience. Startups are like fingerprints; no two are the same, but each has the potential to leave a lasting impression.” added Rohit Bansal about the need to back Indian start-ups. The event concluded with an exciting segment where four young entrepreneurs were invited to pitch their startups. Both Rohit Bansal and Aarti Gupta provided valuable insights and advice, offering guidance to the next generation of entrepreneurs and reinforcing the importance of mentorship and support in building successful ventures
