With the vision to empower women entrepreneurs who have responsibility of parenting Ankita Gupta founded NewAgeMompreneurs community to uplift fellow mom entrepreneurs. In a candid conversation she gives insights on the various initiatives taken her to support mom entrepreneurs.
Excerpts:
Q. How did the idea of creating a community for mom entrepreneurs come about? Share in brief about your journey as an entrepreneur?
A. About 3.5 years ago, I started my healthy home baking venture, inspired by a passion for baking and a desire to provide nutritious options for my family and friends. As I navigated the entrepreneurial journey, I realized that the challenges faced by mom entrepreneurs differ from those faced by other business owners. These challenges could include finding a work-life balance, dealing with societal expectations, and addressing the specific needs of a family while running a business.
Recognizing this gap in support and resources for mom entrepreneurs, I saw an opportunity to create a community where like-minded individuals could connect, share experiences, and provide support to one another. Motivated by the strong desire to empower and uplift fellow mom entrepreneurs, I took the initiative to start a community and I am glad it succeeded.
Q. How do you select members and what benefits they derive from this community?
A: The requisite to be a part of our community is simple but mandatory. In principle we look for prospective members who must be mothers, either currently raising children or having parenting experience. These moms (to be members) should have a tangible stake in a business, whether as an owner, co-owner, partner, or another significant role.
The selection process is largely nomination driven. New members are usually introduced by existing community members, leading to a more closely-knit and supportive environment. However, if there is no existing member referral, then one needs to apply on our website. The application is carefully evaluated by all core team members to ensure that all the criterions are met.
There are multiple benefits to members which are part of this community. Here are just a few –
1. Networking Opportunities: Members can connect with like-minded individuals, potentially leading to collaborations, partnerships, or mentorship opportunities.
2. Community Support: A platform for sharing experiences, asking for advice, and receiving emotional support from individuals who understand the challenges of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship.
3. Visibility and Promotion: Opportunities to showcase their businesses, products, or services within the community, leading to increased visibility and potential customer acquisition.
4. Exclusive Events: Access to events, both virtual and physical, where members can network, learn, and engage in a more intimate setting.
5. Collaboration Opportunities: Facilitation of partnerships or collaborations among members, fostering a sense of community and shared success.
6. Professional Development: Workshops or training sessions focused on enhancing entrepreneurial skills, time management, and work-life balance.
7. Inspirational Content: Stories of successful mom entrepreneurs within the community, providing inspiration and motivation for others.
8. Community Recognition: Acknowledgment of achievements within the community, fostering a supportive and celebratory environment.
Q. What inspired the choice of the name ‘NewAgeMompreneurs’?
A. NewAgeMompreneurs really resonates with our community’s core principles. The name “NewAgeMompreneurs” reflects a community for modern, forward-thinking mom entrepreneurs. The term “New Age” suggests an innovative and adaptable approach, while “Mompreneurs” emphasizes the dual role of being a mother and an entrepreneur. The name aims to appeal to a dynamic audience and convey a supportive space for those navigating the challenges of contemporary motherhood and entrepreneurship.
Q. What activities do you organise to keep the community together? Any challenges that you face?
A. To keep the “NewAgeMompreneurs” community together, we organize a variety of activities:
Networking Events:
• We organise monthly networking meet ups which everyone gets equal opportunity to talk about their work and identify opportunities and foster connections.
Social Bonding events:
• These are fun and informal gatherings, such as festival celebrations, theme-based outing aimed to help members bond with each other, encourage friendships, and create a supportive social network.
Trainings/Panel Discussions:
• Workshops, webinars, and panel discussions covering relevant topics for mom entrepreneurs. The purpose of these is to provide educational opportunities, share expertise, and address common challenges faced by community members.
Exhibition: We organise an annual exhibition showcasing the diverse talents and products of its members. We invite special guests and several people to come and support the community.
Challenges:
• Balancing Schedules: Coordinating events that accommodate diverse schedules can be a challenge, considering the varied responsibilities of mom entrepreneurs.
• Maintaining Engagement: Ensuring sustained member participation in activities and discussions.
• Inclusivity: Addressing the needs and interests of a diverse member base.
Q. What is the long-term vision for the mom entrepreneur community?
A. The long-term vision for the “NewAgeMompreneurs” community includes establishing regional chapters to foster local connections and support and enhance the community’s reach and provide tailored support to mom entrepreneurs in various geographic locations within India.