Despite improvements in social parameters, India’s growth does not translate to the economic inclusion and development of women. Women’s participation in the labour force has stagnated and is expected to decline further because of labour trends, technological disruption and constraining social barriers. Entrepreneurship among women is a key component of the overall solution. It not only boosts the economy through job creation, but also delivers transformational social and personal outcomes.

This study from Maharashtra State Innovation Society, Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship and LEAD explores the landscape of women entrepreneurs and enterprises in Maharashtra — identifying key enablers and barriers in their entrepreneurship journey and actionable recommendations to catalyse growth. Drawing from LEAD’s evolving Women Entrepreneurship Index (WEI) framework, the study evaluates and quantifies women-led entrepreneurial efforts in Maharashtra across seven critical parameters and proposes policy interventions to support the growth and success of this segment.