An Entrepreneur should have the clarity of what he or she wants to do. When one comes up with an innovative idea to create a solution, the chances of success increases.
1. Tell me more about your life and your journey. Give a short biography.
Hi! I am Rhea Majumdar Singhal, an Entrepreneur. I am the founder of Ecoware. 11 years ago, in 2009, I came to India from the U.K. and started Ecoware, a sustainable food packaging enterprise at the age of 27.
2. How do you come with this idea and go about executing it?
So, I realized that healthy food comes with healthy packaging. To reduce our dependence on plastic, we came up with the idea of creating natural ways of packaging.
We collect agro-waste like dry sugarcane leaves from farmers and then convert it into packages through a unique chemical process. These packages are versatile use, 100% natural, safe, and certified.
3. What has been your biggest challenge that you faced and how did you overcome that?
I think changing consumer behavior was the most challenging task. We really worked hard for creating awareness among consumers about the harmful effects of using plastic and educating them about the benefits of eco-friendly products and why we should shift to it.
We visited a number of schools and hospitals of tier 1 and tier 2 cities. Besides being a woman, I also faced social pressure and gender bias. I am proud to say that now, we have 120 employees out of which 30% are women. We are growing gradually.
We have even worked in different office canteens and food courts. Some of our clients where we are retailing our product are Haldiram’s, Subway, Amazon, etc.
4. What do you think are the most important factors for running a successful business?
An Entrepreneur should have the clarity of what he or she wants to do. When one comes up with an innovative idea to create a solution, the chances of success increases. But it should be treated as a business with the objective of growing, generating profit as well creating a positive impact in the society.
5. How can one overcome a hurdle of funds when starting up?
Yes, at the beginning every startup faces this problem but a lot of funding platforms, groups, and networks, and financial packages are available which helps the startups to start their business and grow during their initial years.
6. What are your tips for the first time and aspiring entrepreneurs?
If you have some innovative ideas and are thinking about executing it, you must try it. You should have a strong belief in what you are producing. Setbacks are not failures. Challenges are obvious. You can’t avoid them. Be courageous. Be prepared for it. Keep improving and keep growing.
Instagram ID - @rheamazumdarsinghal , @ecowareindia
Rhea Majumdar Singhal
Entrepreneur
Founder & CEO of Ecoware
Interviewed by Tuhina Rana
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