Gujarat Launches herSTART 5.0: Big Boost for Women Entrepreneurs and Startups

The Gujarat government launched herSTART 5.0 a major initiative which is aimed at strengthening women led startups and entrepreneurship in the state. This programme was inaugurated by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel at Gujarat University in Ahmedabad. This event also marked the opening of a new research park which is designed to boost innovation and entrepreneurship in the region. The herSTART 5.0 Gujarat programme is run by the Gujarat University Startup and Entrepreneurship Council. This Program will focuses on providing incubation, mentorship and market access to women entrepreneurs.

herSTART 5.0 Gujarat Programme to Support Women Entrepreneurs

The herSTART 5.0 Gujarat programme aims to promote women entrepreneurship in the startup ecosystem.

It provides incubation support, mentorship programmes and networking opportunities for women led startups.

Through the herSTART initiative & women entrepreneurs receive guidance in,

• Developing business models
• Accessing investment opportunities
• Expanding market reach

The programme is managed by the Gujarat University Startup and Entrepreneurship Council.

Research Park Inaugurated Alongside herSTART 5.0 Gujarat Launch

During the herSTART 5.0 Gujarat launch the Chief Minister also inaugurated a new research park at Gujarat University.

Organisers described the initiative as a “development triveni” integrating,

• Entrepreneurship
• Research
• Innovation

This infrastructure is expected to support startup growth and technology driven businesses.

Convention Centre Renamed After Vidyagauri Nilkanth

• The Chief Minister announced that the Gujarat University Convention Centre will be renamed Vidyagauri Nilkanth Sabhapuram.
• Vidyagauri Nilkanth is recognized as the first Gujarati woman graduate.
• The naming decision aims to honour women pioneers in education and inspire future generations of women entrepreneurs.
• This step aligns with the government’s commitment to promoting women empowerment and leadership.

Growth of India’s Startup Ecosystem Highlighted

• At the herSTART 5.0 Gujarat event the Chief Minister highlighted the rapid growth of India’s startup ecosystem.
• According to official estimates that India now has around 200,000 startups.
• A decade ago the country had fewer than 500 startups.
• Initiatives such as Startup India have played a key role in expanding entrepreneurship opportunities.
• Women entrepreneurs now represent a significant portion of India’s startup founders.

Question

Q. Which state launched the herSTART 5.0 programme to support women entrepreneurs?

A. Maharashtra
B. Gujarat
C. Karnataka
D. Telangana