Bhubaneswar, Jan 23: The 'Utkarsh Odisha-Make in Odisha' Summit, set to begin on January 28 in Bhubaneswar, promises to be a landmark event in the state's entrepreneurial ecosystem. This year, the summit will feature a series of plenary sessions discussing the rapid growth of Odisha as a burgeoning startup and innovation hub. 

Among these, a special session focused on women entrepreneurs, titled “Women in Innovation - The Future of Startup Evolution in Odisha,” will shine a spotlight on the valuable contributions of women to the state's startup landscape.

Women Leading Innovation in Odisha

Women entrepreneurs are increasingly at the forefront of driving innovation, building sustainable businesses, and creating inclusive growth opportunities. Odisha has emerged as a notable example of this trend, with a growing number of women-led startups that are reshaping industries and addressing pressing societal challenges. The plenary session will delve into the journeys of these women innovators, exploring both the successes and obstacles they have encountered along the way.

The session will highlight the resilience of women entrepreneurs in Odisha, sharing inspirational stories of how they have overcome significant barriers to establish thriving businesses. Their ventures have not only transformed industries but also positively impacted local communities, contributing to the broader socio-economic development of the state and beyond.

Key Themes of the Session

1. The Role of Women in Odisha’s Startup Ecosystem

   • This segment will feature powerful narratives from Odisha’s women entrepreneurs, showcasing their resilience, adaptability, and success. The spotlight will be on how women-led startups have created lasting impacts in diverse sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and sustainability.

2. Challenges and Opportunities for Women Entrepreneurs

   • One of the critical aspects of the discussion will focus on the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, including navigating funding gaps and overcoming systemic barriers. The session will also explore the emerging opportunities for women-led startups in Odisha and how these entrepreneurs are finding innovative solutions to overcome challenges related to market access and societal expectations.

3. Innovation and Leadership by Women

   • Women entrepreneurs are at the forefront of driving innovation in key sectors. The session will highlight how women are leading the charge in sectors like healthcare, agri-tech, and sustainable businesses. It will explore the leadership styles of women in the startup ecosystem and how their unique perspectives are shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Odisha.

4. Fostering an Inclusive Ecosystem

   • A discussion will follow on the role of government policies and initiatives in supporting women entrepreneurs in Odisha. The session will also examine the importance of mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources for women-led startups. Collaboration with corporates and investors will be highlighted as a critical factor in creating a more inclusive and level playing field for women in the startup world.

Prominent Speakers

The session will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers who will share their experiences and insights on women in innovation.

• Maya Sherman, Embassy of Israel
  Maya Sherman is a renowned Science & Technology Diplomat and AI policy expert. Currently, she serves as the Innovation Attaché at the Israeli Embassy in India and as a Co-lead of the AI Literacy Project at the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence. 

• Dharitri Patnaik, Founder of Jivada
  Dharitri Patnaik is a passionate entrepreneur and social development expert. As the Founder and Managing Director of Jivada Ventures Pvt Ltd, she leads a wellness and hospitality company that focuses on rejuvenating lives through innovative health and wellness solutions. 

• Madhumita Agarwal, Founder of Oben EV
  Madhumita Agarwal is a visionary entrepreneur with a keen interest in emerging technologies. She is the Founder of Oben EV, an electric two-wheeler company. 

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