Mumbai: Maharashtra has strengthened its position as India’s leading startup hub, with 45% of new ventures founded or led by women entrepreneurs, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Sunday.
Speaking at a state-level entrepreneurship summit, the Chief Minister said Maharashtra’s strong policy framework and inclusive startup ecosystem have positioned it as a model for women-led entrepreneurship in India.
“Maharashtra’s success belongs to its women innovators. Nearly half of our startups are led by women who are building businesses that empower communities,” said the Chief Minister.
According to official data shared by the Maharashtra State Innovation Society (MSInS), the state currently has more than 20,000 registered startups, spanning diverse sectors including fintech, agritech, healthcare, and sustainability. Of these, a significant percentage are run by women founders, many of them first-generation entrepreneurs from smaller towns.
Programmes such as the MahaStartup Yojana, Mahila Udyam Nidhi Scheme, and Women Entrepreneurs Mission have played a major role in supporting these ventures by providing early-stage funding, training, and networking opportunities.
Industry experts say Maharashtra’s progress represents a major step forward for Entrepreneurs India, emphasising that Her stories-those of women founders – are now driving the nation’s innovation journey.
“This growth isn’t just statistical; it reflects a mindset shift. Women-led startups are shaping India’s future economy,” said an entrepreneurship analyst from Pune.
The government is also planning to establish incubation hubs in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, aiming to make entrepreneurship more accessible to women outside metro regions. These efforts are expected to increase employment, boost rural innovation, and create new business models based on sustainability and digital transformation.
In addition, officials announced the launch of a Global Maharashtra Startup Exchange, designed to help startups collaborate with international investors and mentors. This initiative will further strengthen the state’s reputation as a centre for innovation and inclusive growth.
“When women lead, societies prosper. Maharashtra’s women entrepreneurs are setting examples for India and the world,” the Chief Minister added.
