Breaking barriers: PAU-trained women entrepreneurs secure biz scaling grants

In a moment that symbolising resilience, innovation, and the power of mentorship, two women-led startups trained under Punjab Agricultural University’s (PAU) PABI programme — Araam Care Pvt Ltd and OM Food Products — secured grants from the Punjab State Council for Science and Technology (PSCST) under its Rural Millennia Accelerator initiative.

The cheque-handing ceremony, held at PAU, was more than a formal event. It was a celebration of women entrepreneurs who have dared to dream beyond convention, transforming ideas into enterprises that promise impact in rural communities.

Dr MS Bhullar, Director of Extension Education, lauded the founders for their courage and creativity. “These awards reflect the state’s commitment to inclusive growth, especially in rural and women-entrepreneur led segments,” he said, underscoring the broader vision of empowering women to lead change.

For Araam Care Pvt Ltd and OM Food Products, the journey has been one of persistence and learning. Supported by PABI’s incubation ecosystem, they refined prototypes, tested business models, and built networks that now position them for scaling.

Dr Poonam Sachdev, Co-PI of PABI, expressed joy at their success, “Seeing women-led ventures scale up is deeply rewarding. It shows how mentoring and linkages can turn potential into performance.”

Dr TS Riar, PI of PABI and Additional Director Communication, emphasised the programme’s mission. “Through PABI, PAU has been actively supporting agri-business incubation and startup readiness. We place strong emphasis on promoting women entrepreneurship within agri-technology and food-processing domains,” he said.

The story of these two startups is not just about grants — it is about breaking barriers. In a sector often dominated by men, Araam Care and OM Food Products stand as proof that women can lead with vision, innovation and grit. Their success is also a reminder that when institutions invest in mentoring and inclusive ecosystems, they unlock the potential of half the population that has historically been underrepresented in entrepreneurship.

For the young women of Punjab, this moment is inspirational. It tells them that their ideas matter, their ventures can thrive, and their voices can shape industries. As Araam Care and OM Food Products step into the next phase of growth, they carry with them the hopes of many aspiring entrepreneurs who see in their journey a reflection of their own dreams.