Running a Women-Led Business in Kenya: Overcoming Challenges, Celebrating Triumphs & Sharing Lessons

Less than 3% of global venture capital goes to female-founded businesses. Today, we’re excited to feature a guest post from Grounded, a leading eco-conscious brand in Kenya. They’re raising awareness about the challenges women entrepreneurs face and sharing their own journey towards building a sustainable business. Their experiences resonate deeply with Indigo Cowork Space, a women-run business in Nairobi that champions similar values. Just like Grounded, Indigo fosters a supportive community for women-led businesses and eco-conscious initiatives in Nairobi.

Our Story: From Vision to Reality

Grounded started with a simple yet profound vision: to create safe, non-toxic products that benefit both people and the environment. From humble beginnings, we have grown into a brand that is trusted for its commitment to sustainability and high-quality formulations. Our journey has been shaped by resilience, innovation, and the incredible support of a community that values cleaner, safer alternatives.

Our Founders, Megan & Alison Root(far left &  right)  together with Grounded Employees, Ivy & Brigid (middle)

Running a women-led business in Kenya comes with its unique hurdles, but it has also opened doors to opportunities that have allowed us to make a lasting impact. From sourcing locally to building a strong network of women entrepreneurs, every step has reinforced our belief that businesses can be both profitable and purpose-driven.

The Challenges of Leading as Women Entrepreneurs

Like many women entrepreneurs, we have faced our share of obstacles:

Breaking Barriers to Funding:

Securing investment for a women-led startup remains a challenge in Kenya’s & the world’s business landscape. Less than 3% of global venture capital goes to female founded businesses.

Creating a Brand that Prioritizes Women’s Health:

Women do a majority of home care, and they deserve better products that keep them safe. Convincing often male-led retailers about the opportunity for this new category of products in Kenya took years!

Women in STEM:

There aren’t many women in manufacturing, or engineering – to grow our business, we can be limited by the educational pipeline in Kenya. We need more women in STEM!

Milestones & Achievements That Inspire Us

Despite these challenges, our journey has been marked by significant milestones:

  • Successfully expanding our product range to include a diverse selection of non-toxic cleaning and personal care solutions.
  • Gaining recognition as a leading eco-conscious brand, committed to sustainability and ethical production.
  • Creating employment and leadership opportunities for women, empowering them to thrive in business and beyond.
  • Building a loyal community that shares our values and supports our mission for a healthier, greener future.

Lessons for the Next Generation of Women Entrepreneurs

Through our experiences, we’ve learned valuable lessons that we hope can inspire other women entrepreneurs:

  • Stay True to Your Mission: Purpose-driven businesses stand out. Your values should guide every decision, even when faced with tough challenges.
  • Build a Strong Support System: Surround yourself with mentors, collaborators, and supporters who believe in your vision and can offer guidance along the way.
  • Embrace Adaptability & Innovation: The business landscape is ever-changing. Being flexible and open to innovation is key to long-term success.
  • Empower Other Women: As we grow, we uplift others. Whether through mentorship or collaboration, empowering fellow women entrepreneurs strengthens the entire ecosystem.

What Makes Grounded Stand Out?

At Grounded, we take pride in being more than just a business. Our commitment to sustainability, quality, and community impact sets us apart. Every product we create is a testament to our belief that business can be a force for good. We are intentional about:

  • Sustainable Sourcing & Production: Using biodegradable, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for families and the planet. Indigo Cowork Space shares this commitment to sustainability by providing a workspace that promotes eco-friendly practices and supports sustainable businesses in Nairobi.
  • Uncompromising Product Quality: Delivering effective cleaning solutions without harmful chemicals.
  • Empowering Women in Business: Creating opportunities for women to lead, innovate, and succeed. This aligns perfectly with Indigo Cowork Space’s mission to empower women entrepreneurs in Nairobi by providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed.

A Call to Action: Celebrate & Support Women Entrepreneurs

Join us in supporting women-led businesses by choosing brands that prioritize sustainability, ethical business practices, and empowerment. Explore Grounded’s range of non-toxic products and be part of the movement for a cleaner, healthier world. Visit Indigo Cowork Space in Nairobi to discover a community that champions women entrepreneurs and sustainable businesses.

Let’s build a future where women-led businesses thrive!