Date:15/07/2004 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2004/07/15/stories/2004071500912000.htm

National

The enterprise women

By Sudha Menon

PUNE, JULY 14. Women entrepreneurs in Pune are taking up their `kitchen and backyard enterprises' to malls and chain-stores where they should compete for shelf space and consumer rupees with established brands.

In a first-of-its-kind exclusive B2B (business to business) meet, women displayed their products for prospective business associates. At least half a dozen have got enquiries from chain-stores. Hand-holding in their effort is the Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture.

While formal business arrangements might be months away, they are exploring business relationships. According to Anuroopa Pradhan, once an officer with the Reserve Bank of India, one chain had expressed interest in her range of home-made candles and she was sending them a formal business proposal. Artists Sujata Thorat and Manju Shetye, who run a store inside the Shaniwarwada Fort with traditional Maharashtrian objects of art, and Sandhya Mavinkurve, who makes herbal teas and mouth fresheners, are in discussions with grocery chains.

``The idea of such a B2B meet was interesting because this is how a lot of skills and talents can come out and be noticed,'' said C.L. Ramachandran, sourcing manager for one chain. ``But small entrepreneurs must do their homework and realise that large companies want business associates who are serious about their work.''

The MCCIA is seeking to ensure that the members of its women entrepreneur sub-committee, comprising women engaged in businesses get every opportunity they can. ``Mentoring them is important and we guide them on identifying markets, credit needs, legal formalities, and factors like business insurance,'' said Vidula Tokekar of the WESC.