DP World and NITI Aayog Recognise Top 10 Women Entrepreneurs Under We Rise Initiative
DP World and NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) honoured 10 women entrepreneurs at the conclusion of We Rise (Women Entrepreneurs Reimagining Inclusive and Sustainable Enterprises), a nationwide initiative designed to support women-led businesses with export readiness and market access.
Launched in October 2025, the programme equips women entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and professional networks required to expand their businesses and explore new markets.
The Top 10 entrepreneurs were recognised for developing businesses across sectors including food, handicrafts, textiles, and beauty and wellness. The finalists were selected from more than 600 applications received from across India, representing women-led enterprises seeking to participate in India's trade and economic growth.
Participants completed a structured programme featuring mentorship, expert-led workshops, and digital learning modules covering branding, packaging, logistics, regulatory compliance, and international market positioning.
Speaking at the event, Former India captain Mithali Raj, said:
“As a cricketer, I know that every milestone is earned through preparation, resilience, and the courage to perform when it matters most. The women entrepreneurs celebrated through DP World’s We Rise program have shown that same spirit stepping up, proving their strength, and building businesses ready for the global arena. Their journey reminds us that when opportunity meets determination, futures are not just imagined, they are achieved.”
Anna Roy, Programme Director, NITI Aayog, and Mission Director, Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), said:
“As India strengthens its position within global supply chains, increasing women’s participation in entrepreneurship and trade becomes critical to building a more inclusive and resilient economy. We Rise has been designed as a comprehensive platform that equips women entrepreneurs with the skills, confidence and market orientation needed to scale sustainably and participate meaningfully in global markets.”
Hemant Kumar Ruia, Country Manager Subcontinent (India), DP World, said:
“Women entrepreneurs are shaping India’s economic future through innovation, job creation and stronger communities. Through We Rise, in partnership with NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurship Platform, DP World is helping women entrepreneurs build capabilities, expand networks and access global opportunities. The initiative reflects our commitment to enabling inclusive trade ecosystems and supporting India’s growth through entrepreneurship and innovation.”
The event also featured a panel discussion with Mithali Raj, Hemant Kumar Ruia, and Anna Roy, focusing on the role of women-led MSMEs in advancing India's export ambitions. The discussion highlighted the importance of ecosystem support in enabling women entrepreneurs to expand into global markets.
DP World stated that it will continue supporting the finalists by providing access to learning resources, industry networks, and ecosystem opportunities aimed at supporting long-term business growth and global competitiveness.