Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Women Entrepreneurs seek marketing support at PAU's School of Business Studies
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana, October 11, 2024: Two inspiring women entrepreneurs recently visited the School of Business Studies at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) under the National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations-Technology Business Incubator (NIDHI-TBI), a DST, GoI project.
Seeking advisory services for the development and marketing of their unique food product lines, these women have transformed their passion into thriving pilot projects, contributing to health and wellness in their communities.
Ravinder Kaur, the founder of the brand Rabaco, focuses on gluten-free, millet-based products like oats and besan, crafted without preservatives. Her business model emphasizes direct selling through a customized approach, leveraging her social networks for promotion and employing a cost-plus pricing strategy.
Ravinder Kaur’s journey has been shaped by the MSME training and Farm Women Training programs at PAU. During her visit, she discussed her business case with Dr. Navneet Kaur and Roohi, who offered guidance on distribution, promotional strategies, FSSAI registration, and branding.
“We aim to provide wholesome, healthy alternatives without compromising on taste, making nutritious food accessible to all,” Kaur shared.
Dr. Ramandeep Singh, Director of the School of Business Studies, highlighted Ravinder Kaur's story as a testament to the growing influence of rural women in Punjab’s entrepreneurial landscape. He emphasized PAU's role as a critical enabler of their success, fostering sustainable, health-conscious businesses.
Another noteworthy entrepreneur, who embarked on her business journey at the age of 60, has developed a brand centered around bovine colostrum-based products. Her offerings include biscuits, panjiri, barfi, and raw colostrum, known for their benefits in managing autoimmune disorders. Inspired by PAU’s skill development programs, she plans to expand her line to include colostrum-based tablets, which are in growing demand.
With continuous support from Dr. Ramandeep Singh and Dr. Maria Afzal, she has built her brand, "Wise Mother," and expanded her reach through PAU Kisan Mela exhibitions, Instagram, and WhatsApp groups.
Dr. Ramandeep Singh emphasized the goal of nurturing businesses through the NIDHI-TBI program, aiming for ventures that thrive economically while promoting healthier lifestyles and generating employment opportunities.
He lauded the resilience and determination of these women, who serve as prime examples of how passion, combined with the right support, can lead to remarkable entrepreneurial success.
These entrepreneurs' stories will form the basis of detailed case studies to enhance their businesses and inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and students of agribusiness and management.
The School of Business Studies at PAU continues to be a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly empowering rural youth and women in the agribusiness sector.