Four innovative Indian startups have made it to the longlist of the prestigious Aurora Tech Award for 2025. This recognition highlights the remarkable achievements of female entrepreneurs in emerging markets, with Aica Health, Dzylo, MAMMA-MIYA, and Tech4Good Community standing out among a record-breaking 2,018 applications from 116 countries.
The award, established as a non-profit initiative by inDrive, aims to spotlight ambitious female founders. This year’s longlist consists of 120 standout women entrepreneurs whose bold innovations are set to make a significant impact on their respective industries and communities. The finalists will be announced in February, with the winners celebrated in a global ceremony later in the year.
Aica Health, founded by Manishaa Soin, utilizes AI to manage chronic health conditions and enhance geriatric care at home. Dzylo, co-founded by Anita Tailor, offers an all-in-one AI-powered platform aimed at supporting interior designers in their business efforts. MAMMA-MIYA addresses productivity needs for mothers, while Tech4Good Community has made strides with Flake, an open-source data management platform intended to empower NGOs.
This year’s strong interest in the award reflects a notable increase in support from venture capital firms, swelling from 23 to 35 partners, including new participants from Egypt, Brazil, and Pakistan. The data highlights a significant trend: women are increasingly taking on entrepreneurial roles, particularly in emerging markets, where participation rates are markedly higher than in high-income countries. For instance, 17% of working-age women in developing economies are entrepreneurs, with a further 35% aspiring to launch their own businesses.
The Aurora Tech Award not only recognizes female-led startups but offers vital support, including mentorship, fundraising guidance, and networking opportunities that can elevate these businesses into impactful ventures. This initiative serves as a platform for women entrepreneurs, empowering them to achieve greater heights while inspiring future generations.
The Aurora Tech Award showcases a hopeful narrative of progress and change; as more women engage in entrepreneurship, the potential for societal impact magnifies, fostering a generation that believes in the power of innovation and resilience. As the landscape for female founders continues to develop, initiatives like this are crucial in paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive future in business.