Is it hard to start a business in India?
Do I need a lot of money to start a business?
Can I run a business without a degree?
These are not just doubts. They are myths about starting a business, and they’ve stopped countless women from starting something of their own.
But here’s the truth:
India is seeing a steady rise in women-led businesses. According to a recent Bain & Company report, women entrepreneurs in India could create 150–170 million new jobs by 2030. That’s more than the entire population of Japan. Yet many women still hold back because of misconceptions about entrepreneurship.
So, let’s break them down one myth at a time and show you what really matters when starting a business today.
7 Common Myths About Starting a Business
Myth 1: “You Need a Lot of Money to Start a Business”
Reality: Starting a business doesn’t always require lakhs of rupees. In fact, most microbusiness startups begin with modest amounts, or even zero investment.
Today, many low-investment business ideas like tiffin services, reselling, online teaching, or handmade product sales can be started from home using just your phone and basic digital tools. The internet has levelled the playing field for first-time entrepreneurs.
Instead of waiting to “save up” a large sum, focus on validating your business idea first. Start small, build gradually, and reinvest your earnings.
Tip: Explore how to start a business in India through self-help groups, local women-led communities, or digital platforms that offer access to small-ticket loans or learning tools.
Myth 2: “Only Business Graduates Can Be Entrepreneurs”
Reality: You don’t need an MBA to run a business. What you do need is an idea, curiosity, and the willingness to learn on the job.
Many women hold back because they feel unqualified, but business success isn’t tied to degrees. It’s about problem-solving, adaptability, and understanding your customer.
In fact, some of the most successful women entrepreneurs in India started without any formal business education. They learned by doing, experimenting, and utilising digital tools such as YouTube, Canva, WhatsApp Business, and social commerce platforms.
If you’ve been Googling “Can I start a business without a degree?” – the answer is a firm yes.
Myth 3: “You Must Quit Your Job to Start a Business”
Reality: Many women start with a side hustle before transitioning to full-time entrepreneurship. This allows them to test ideas, understand customer demand, and build a financial cushion.
Balancing a 9-to-5 job with your business may sound tough, but it’s a practical way to reduce risk. It also gives you structure, income security, and a timeline to grow your business organically.
With digital platforms offering easy access to marketplaces, payments, and customer outreach, starting a side hustle in India has never been more feasible.
Tip: Think small, one product or one service to start. Test it. Tweak it. Grow gradually.
Myth 4: “Women Can’t Balance Business and Family Life”
Reality: This is one of the most damaging misconceptions about entrepreneurship. The truth is: business is flexible, and women are natural multitaskers.
The myth that family and business cannot co-exist stems from a traditional idea of work. But many women starting their ventures today are doing it on their own terms, working from home, setting their own hours, and managing both personal and professional responsibilities.
With proper time planning, supportive tools, and sometimes even family involvement, it’s absolutely possible.
If you’re asking “What stops women from starting a business?”, this outdated belief is high on the list, but it doesn’t hold up in today’s world.
Myth 5: “Starting a Business Is Too Risky”
Reality: Every new step involves some risk but not starting at all may cost you more.
There’s a common fear that business equals big losses or instability. But most small business ideas for women today are built on low capital and limited resources, making the risk manageable.
The real question is: What’s the cost of not trying?
Instead of thinking of it as a gamble, treat your business like an experiment. Set clear boundaries, such as the amount of time and money you’ll initially invest, and review progress every month.
Tip: Make yourself aware about budgeting, saving, and business loans to make smarter choices.
Myth 6: “You Need a Big Team, Office, or Setup”
Reality: The digital era has made it possible to run a business from your phone.
You don’t need a shop, a dozen employees, or formal registration to get started. Whether you’re selling online or offering services locally, you can begin solo and scale up only when needed.
From billing and marketing to order taking and delivery coordination, free tools like Google Forms, Paytm, Instagram, and WhatsApp can handle it all.
Focus on function, not form. Many successful online businesses for women start from the kitchen table, not a fancy office.
Myth 7: “You Have to Know Everything Before You Start”
Reality: The truth? No one has it all figured out at the beginning.
This myth ties into the fear of failure. Many women delay action because they’re waiting to feel “ready.” But entrepreneurship is a journey, not a destination. You learn as you go.
Some of the best insights come from trial and error. You’ll evolve your product, pricing, and even your target customer over time.
Instead of perfection, aim for progress. Ask questions. Talk to other women in business. And most importantly, take the first step.
Tip: Consider joining women-only platforms or community forums to access advice and startup guidance tailored for Indian women.
A Simple Checklist to Get Started
Here are 5 things you can do today to move one step closer to your business dream:
- Write down your business idea – one product or service you want to offer.
- Test it with friends or your local WhatsApp group – get honest feedback.
- Keep costs low – use free design tools, local sourcing, and word of mouth.
- Find your support circle – join Mahila Money, ask questions, connect.
- Don’t wait for “perfect” – start messy. Learn as you go.
Need help? Check out: Business Ideas for Women
Don’t Let a Myth About Starting A Business Stop You from Building Your Future
If you’ve read this far, chances are you’re seriously considering starting something of your own. That’s already a big step forward.
So, the next time you hear someone say, “It’s too hard,” or “You don’t have what it takes,” remember: these are just myths. Not facts.
Whether you’re planning to start a side hustle, an online business, or a micro business from home, know that support is out there.
And if you’re ready to start, Mahila Money is here to support you – with capital, content, and community.
Explore our Loan Options, Success Stories, or Join the Community.
Read more:
How to Apply for GST Registration Online: A Step-by-Step Guide for Small Businesses
5 Smart Tips to Build Emergency Fund for Your Small Business
What Licenses Do You Need to Run a Cloud Kitchen in India? A Guide for Aspiring Foodpreneurs
How to Use WhatsApp Business to Get More Customers
If you are a woman entrepreneur who wants to take your business to new heights and is in need of working capital and entrepreneurship resources, come speak to us on Mahila Money. For more such #JiyoApneDumPe live conversations, download the Mahila Money App on Play Store or visit us on www.mahila.money.
