Women’s Entrepreneurship in Northeast India: Driving Growth, Innovation, and Economic Transformation

There is a growing focus on Northeast India as a key area for development in the nation. Though industrially underserved for years, the region is becoming a vibrant hub of entrepreneurial energy, particularly driven by women. Women’s entrepreneurship in Northeast India is not just a recent trend; women in the region have historically played pivotal roles in economic activities. Today, their contributions are shaping the future of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and driving socio-economic progress across the eight northeastern states.

Pioneering Entrepreneurship: Northeast India's Women Weavers

In the MSME sector, women weavers in Northeast India are instrumental, forming nearly 80% of the region’s full-time weaving workforce. These women have transformed weaving from a traditional activity into a growing industry that supports economic independence. The region’s rich natural resources, traditional artistry, and skilled women workforce make it a unique, resource-rich environment for developing new businesses.

North East Weavers

One of the most inspiring examples is the Ima Keithel (Mothers’ Market) in Imphal, Manipur—a 500-year-old all-women market where traders sell local goods, fresh produce, and handmade products. Such efforts have deep-rooted historical significance and highlight women’s long standing role in the region's economy.

Leveraging Digital Marketing for Women Entrepreneurs in Northeast India

In recent years, digital marketing has become a critical tool for women entrepreneurs looking to expand their brands beyond local markets. Social media platforms and digital channels enable women-led businesses to reach diverse audiences nationwide and even internationally. Digital marketing helps level the playing field, offering cost-effective methods for brand building and customer engagement, which is particularly beneficial for emerging businesses in underserved regions like the Northeast.

Digital strategies such as SEO-optimized content, social media advertising, influencer collaborations, and e-commerce integration have made it possible for women entrepreneurs to:

1. Enhance Visibility: Digital marketing increases brand awareness, with data showing a significant rise in online visibility among women-led businesses in Northeast India over the last three years.

2. Expand Market Reach: Social media enables targeted marketing, allowing women entrepreneurs to engage with audiences beyond geographical limitations.

3. Boost Sales: With e-commerce integration, women-led businesses can easily sell their products online, expanding their customer base beyond the local markets.

Corporate | Design Thinking

Supporting Growth with Data-Driven Insights and Localized Marketing

As of 2025, Northeast India is witnessing a surge in digital adoption. The region’s internet penetration rate has risen to over 45% (up from 30% in 2020), and it is projected to reach around 60% by 2026. This growth in internet access is enabling more women entrepreneurs to utilize digital tools for business growth. Data-driven insights from digital marketing analytics also help these entrepreneurs make better business decisions and optimize their resources effectively.

Digital marketing further allows businesses to target local and regional markets with SEO tactics tailored to Northeast India’s audience. By incorporating culturally relevant keywords and local language adaptations, women entrepreneurs can improve their brand visibility and reach potential customers who resonate with their cultural identity and heritage.

The Role of Government and NGOs in Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

To support this wave of entrepreneurship, the Government of India and various NGOs have introduced programs that provide mentorship, business training, and funding opportunities for women entrepreneurs in Northeast India. These initiatives have enabled women-led startups and microenterprises to access:

• Business skills training

• Funding and market access

• Networking and mentorship programs

For example, government training initiatives have led to a 35% increase in women-owned businesses in the region from 2020 to 2025. Programs focused on digital literacy have helped these entrepreneurs adopt online tools to better manage and market their businesses.

Mother Earth

Embracing Digital Creativity for Brand Building

Building a brand is more than starting a business; it requires strategic branding efforts and a strong digital presence. For women entrepreneurs in Northeast India, digital marketing is instrumental in creating an engaging, impactful brand that stands out in a crowded marketplace.

1. Visual Storytelling and Cultural Resonance: Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer ways to share visual stories, using the region’s rich culture to build connections with customers.

2. Interactive Marketing: Platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram allow interactive content—quizzes, live sessions, and Q&As—that engage audiences and build brand loyalty.

3. Influencer Collaborations: Local influencers and community leaders help boost brand credibility. For example, many local women artisans and small business owners in Meghalaya and Manipur partner with social media influencers to enhance visibility.

   
   
   
   

   

   Influencer Marketing

   
   

Digital Marketing as a Catalyst for Economic Growth

As Northeast India’s GDP contribution rises, projected to grow by 5-7% annually by 2026, digital marketing will continue to play a transformative role for local entrepreneurs. By embracing digital channels, women-led businesses are able to capture new market opportunities, drive sales, and contribute to the regional economy’s growth. The focus on local e-commerce and online marketplaces has allowed women entrepreneurs to overcome logistical challenges and reach a broader audience, thus expanding Northeast India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Conclusion: The Path Forward for Women Entrepreneurs in Northeast India

Virago Tales and Women Entrepreneurs

Virago Tales have undertaken numerous projects aimed at the growth and development of women entrepreneurs. These initiatives focus on empowering women by providing them with the necessary skills, resources, and support to thrive in their respective fields.

Digital Marketing Opportunities

For women entrepreneurs in Northeast India, digital marketing presents a game-changing opportunity. Through strategic use of online channels, they are establishing strong, culturally resonant brands that not only drive economic growth but also showcase the region’s rich cultural identity. From increasing brand awareness and expanding market reach to fostering customer loyalty and scaling their businesses, digital marketing is unlocking new possibilities for women-led businesses across the Northeast.

Leveraging Branding Expertise

For any digital marketing requirements, Virago Tales expertise can leverage branding for any entrepreneurs. Their comprehensive approach to branding includes:

• Developing a unique brand identity

• Creating engaging content that resonates with target audiences

• Utilising social media platforms effectively

• Implementing SEO strategies to enhance online visibility

• Conducting market research to inform branding decisions

This expertise is essential for entrepreneurs looking to build a strong presence in the digital landscape.