Women's Startup Expo brings local talents and flavours to Panampilly Nagar
The two-day event which commenced on Friday is organised by Panampilly Nagar Welfare Association. It showcases 28 women-led ventures from across the state, offering them a platform for networking, learning and growth.
"We started with just home-based businesses, but now we have women from different districts bringing in everything from artisanal crafts to gourmet foods," said organiser Beena Benjamin.
Among the participants is 65-year-old Lovely Vincent, a retired bank employee turned entrepreneur.
Selling crunchy Kerala-style banana chips under her brand Tentappee, she said the expo gave her more than just sales. "I was part of the last edition of expo which offered a one-of-a-kind experience," she shared.
For Ragitha V M, the expo is about bringing back authentic flavours. Unable to find the original taste of her favourite sweet, boli, she started Swasthia Foods to make Thiruvananthapuram-style boli without adulterants.
"At fairs like this, we see the consumers' reactions instantly. That is far more satisfying than selling to shops," she said.
The event is also a fundraiser for local community projects, including upkeep of parks and medians. "Corporation does not have adequate funds for renovation work in the area, so the association is stepping in. Proceeds from the expo will go into improving local infrastructure," Benjamin explained.
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