CM Releases Handbook for Women Startup Entrepreneurs

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:
Chief Minister Shri Pinarayi Vijayan brought out a handbook of the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) with the aim of encouraging women entrepreneurs by imparting them knowledge and assistance in launching businesses.

The publication, which was released at the Chief Minister’s Chamber, contains all the information women entrepreneurs require to float a startup. The book, which details the assistance and schemes by the central and state governments to women startups, can be accessed at https://startupmission.kerala.gov.in/ecosystem.

KSUM Chief Executive Officer Anoop Ambika, while describing the handbook as “comprehensive”, said the publication was part of the nodal agency’s efforts to further encourage women to enter the startup ecosystem. “From time to time, we will be updating it to reflect the changes, innovations and new projects taking place in this sector.”

The handbook essays the schemes of KSUM, Directorate of Commerce and Industry, Local Self-Government Department, State Women Development Corporation, KFC and KSIDC under the state government, the central government’s ministries of MSME, NBCFDC, Social Justice and Empowerment, Women and Child Development, Finance and Minority Affairs, SIDBI, Biotechnology Ignition Grant and Stand-Up India, various schemes in the banking sector, schemes of industry associations such as Salesforce, Nasscom Foundation, TiE and Women Entrepreneur Network.

Ambika noted that the KSUM plays a key role in developing innovative technology and creating a culture for aspiring entrepreneurs, thereby building a vibrant startup ecosystem. “We follow an inclusive approach that benefits all sections including women, transgender community and other marginalized people, besides local entrepreneurs,” he added.

Others present at the ceremony included KSUM Manager Surya Thankam, Assistant Managers Ashitha V.A. and Adithya S.V.

KSUM promotes innovation and entrepreneurship, by supporting more than 6,300startups, 64 incubators and 525 innovation centres, with strong focus on the digital sector, health-tech and services.