New Delhi: India’s startup ecosystem continues to witness significant growth, with a strong focus on promoting women entrepreneurship. According to the latest data from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), over 1,02,000 startups have at least one woman director or partner, out of a total of 2,12,283 recognised startups as of 31st January 2026.
The announcement was made by Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Shri Jitin Prasada, in the Lok Sabha today.
DPIIT Recognises Over 2.12 Lakh Startups Across India
Launched on 16th January 2016, the Startup India initiative aims to build a strong ecosystem for innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment in India.
As per DPIIT records, of the 2,12,283 recognised startups, 1,02,054 have at least one woman director or partner. Data from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) also shows that 6,789 startups have been categorised as closed (dissolved or struck-off), of which 2,950 were women-led.
This demonstrates a significant participation of women entrepreneurs in India’s startup ecosystem, highlighting the government’s commitment to gender-inclusive growth.
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Government Support Through Multi-Stage Funding Schemes
To strengthen the startup ecosystem, the government has implemented flagship schemes including:
1. Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS)
Managed by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), FFS catalyses venture capital investments by providing capital to SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), which then invest in startups.
- Total investments in startups: Rs. 25,859 crore
- Investments in women-led startups (2020 onwards): Rs. 2,995 crore
- Number of startups supported under FFS: 1,382
- Number of startups closed under FFS: 17
2. Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
Implemented from 1st April 2021, SISFS supports seed-stage startups through approved incubators.
- Total funds approved: Rs. 592 crore
- Funds approved for women-led startups: Rs. 294 crore
- Number of startups supported: 3,311
- Number of startups closed under SISFS: 26
3. Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS)
Operational from 1st April 2023, CGSS enables debt funding to startups through eligible financial institutions and is operationalized by the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC) Limited.
- Total loans guaranteed: Rs. 925 crore
- Loans guaranteed for women-led startups: Rs. 39 crore
- Number of startups supported: 281
- Number of startups closed under CGSS: 1
Boosting Women Entrepreneurship in India
The data highlights the increasing presence of women in leadership roles within startups. By providing multi-stage funding and financial support, the government aims to create an enabling environment for innovation, risk-taking, and sustainable growth.
Initiatives like FFS, SISFS, and CGSS not only provide capital but also mentorship and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs, particularly women, helping them scale their ventures and contribute to India’s growing economy.
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