2020 halted the world we were used to and created new markets all across, with tremendous focus being given to digital-driven businesses. While going outside took a backseat, indulgence and self-care grew in every home. As a creator of a digital business myself, I'm happy to see how Renee Cosmetics has started its journey and excited about the increasing interest in the beauty industry. I also feel this year has been kind to edtech, online entertainment and health industry, with the new normal creating newer habits and lifestyles.

Q2. What has been the toughest challenge faced by the Indian startup ecosystem during 2020?
The toughest challenge has most certainly been the everyday fight to coexist in the face of fear. In the midst of a pandemic and the added fear of the economy dwindling, people have never felt more insecure when it came to saving and spending money. But when there is insecurity, it's trust that always wins. Just like us at Renee, the Indian startup ecosystem too has managed to win the trust of consumers and adapted to change, much faster than many others.

Q3. What has been the biggest learning for you as an entrepreneur that the year has taught you?
For us at Renee, the greatest learning has been the importance of self-reliance. We realized that if we continue having dependency on trade windows, where the procurement is dependent on international vendors, then we will never be able to meet

the fast-changing needs of our customers. The company's motto today is to Make In India, right from raw material to the finished goods. Another important learning we're taking away from this year is how to position ourselves in a market with many competitors and price points, but still create a unique proposition.

Q4. What is your hope for the Indian startup ecosystem for 2021?
From here, the only way we go is up! We have relooked at and reorganized different processes to meet the changing requirements of the Indian customer. For us, satisfaction continues being at the core of it all- whether it's for our customers or our employees. We are certain that we will be entering 2021 with a strong team and community, ready to continue making waves in the world of beauty.


Dr. Disha Dinkar, Founder, Digvijaya Herbals

Q1. Which industry sector has witnessed massive growth throughout 2020?
Medicine / pharmaceutical industry has witnessed massive growth this year, due to the present scenario.

Q2. What has been the toughest challenge faced by the Indian startup eco-system during 2020?
The toughest challenge for us during the on-going pandemic has been sustainability.

Q3. What has been the biggest learning for you as an entrepreneur that the year has taught you?
This year has taught us that tough times don't last for long. All we got to do is hold on, work harder, and utilize the given time for research & ideas. In all of this patience is the key.

Q4. What is your hope for the Indian startup eco-system for 2021?
There has been a rapid rise in the number of Indiana startups in the last five years and the coming year will definitely skyrocket. The coming years look positive in terms of sustainability and financial aspects as far as Indian startups are concerned.