Today we’d like to introduce Priyanka Puppala
Hi Priyanka, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Starting the Austin Indian Women in Business (AIWB) community was born out of a personal desire to create a supportive space for Indian women entrepreneurs in Austin. My journey began with my own experience as an entrepreneur. As the founder of MISS, a maternity and breastfeeding wear brand, and a tech lead by profession, I understand the balancing act required in business.
When I moved to Austin, I felt the need for a community that represented Indian women, one that recognized our unique challenges and empowered us with resources, networking, and mentorship. AIWB started small but with a big goal: to build a community that could help women grow confidently and collaborate meaningfully. Over time, AIWB grew into a nonprofit organization, and today, we proudly support over 220 members, organize impactful events, and offer resources that help women succeed in their businesses.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it hasn’t always been a smooth road. Like many entrepreneurial journeys, there have been challenges along the way. Some of the biggest struggles included balancing multiple responsibilities—managing my business, being a mom to a toddler, and building AIWB from the ground up. There were times when resources were limited, and juggling family life with professional commitments felt overwhelming.
Creating a community like AIWB also came with unique challenges, such as finding the right support systems and partners, organizing impactful events, and ensuring we were genuinely helping Indian women entrepreneurs. Overcoming these obstacles required persistence, strategic planning, and a strong support network. I was fortunate to have my co-founder, Hiral Patel, whose support and shared vision helped us carry the load and drive AIWB forward.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
About Austin Indian Women in Business (AIWB)
Austin Indian Women in Business (AIWB) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Indian women entrepreneurs through a supportive community and a range of valuable resources. Our mission is to provide Indian women with the tools, connections, and confidence they need to succeed in both product- and service-based ventures.
What We Do
AIWB offers targeted support for product and service-based vendors, including guidance on business development, marketing, and strategy. We organize product sales exhibitions and popup shows to help vendors gain visibility and connect with their communities, offering them unique opportunities to showcase their offerings and expand their customer base. Additionally, our vendor collaborations and workshops create pathways for women entrepreneurs to learn from one another, enhance their skills, and find new ways to grow their businesses.
Introducing “Her Story Begins” – A New Chapter in AIWB
At Austin Indian Women in Business (AIWB), we’re thrilled to launch “Her Story Begins,” a new chapter created to amplify the stories and journeys of women entrepreneurs within our community. This chapter is all about celebrating the diverse paths of our members while providing them with specialized resources that empower them at every step. With “Her Story Begins,” we are deepening our commitment to each vendor, helping them reach their goals and connect with their audience in meaningful ways. Here’s how this chapter will make a positive impact on the community:
Product and Service-Based Vendor Support
“Her Story Begins” places a strong emphasis on supporting vendors, whether they offer products or services. This segment provides tailored guidance and resources that address the unique needs of different business types. From effective product positioning and pricing strategies to crafting standout service offerings, vendors receive expert insights that equip them to better serve their customers. This support also includes tips on improving customer experience, streamlining operations, and developing strong branding that resonates with their target market.
Business Development Guidance
For many entrepreneurs, navigating the complexities of business growth and development can be challenging. Through “Her Story Begins,” we offer comprehensive business development support, including personalized sessions that cover strategic planning, goal setting, and scaling techniques. Vendors gain valuable insights into how to grow their businesses sustainably, manage resources efficiently, and tackle challenges that may arise as they expand. This guidance encourages them to think long-term and build businesses that stand the test of time.
Product Sales Exhibitions
To give our vendors greater visibility, “Her Story Begins” will organize regular product sales exhibitions. These events serve as a vibrant marketplace where vendors can showcase their offerings, connect with a diverse customer base, and generate sales in a lively, supportive environment. These exhibitions are designed to highlight the unique qualities of each vendor’s products, creating a platform where they can share their stories and connect with potential customers who appreciate quality and authenticity.
Vendor Collaborations
Collaboration is at the heart of the AIWB community, and “Her Story Begins” encourages vendors to explore partnerships and joint ventures. Through these collaborations, vendors have the chance to combine resources, cross-promote each other’s offerings, and create innovative products or services that appeal to a wider audience. By working together, vendors can increase their reach, amplify their visibility, and develop lasting professional relationships that support mutual growth.
Women Entrepreneurial Journey – Podcast and Blog
One of the most inspiring features of “Her Story Begins” is our podcast and blog series, which will spotlight the real journeys of Indian women entrepreneurs. This series will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, successes, and personal stories of our community members. By sharing these stories, we’re building a library of experiences that offer inspiration, practical insights, and encouragement to others. This content also enhances the visibility of each vendor, allowing them to reach new audiences and establish credibility in their field.
Pop-Up Shows and Community Events
“Her Story Begins” will also host regular pop-up shows in various neighborhoods, bringing vendors closer to their target audiences. These events are an excellent way for vendors to connect with customers in intimate, community-based settings, allowing them to build local loyalty and strengthen their brand presence. Through these pop-up shows, vendors can receive direct feedback from their audience, foster customer relationships, and create a loyal base that supports their business growth.
Vendor Workshops and Mentorship Programs
Recognizing the value of continuous learning, “Her Story Begins” offers workshops and mentorship programs tailored to the needs of our vendors. These programs bring in industry experts to lead training sessions on essential skills such as digital marketing, customer relationship management, financial planning, and more. Each workshop is designed to empower vendors with the tools they need to succeed, while our mentorship programs provide a personalized approach, connecting vendors with seasoned professionals who guide them through challenges and growth opportunities.
Why “Her Story Begins” Matters for AIWB Vendors
With “Her Story Begins,” AIWB is creating a nurturing environment where vendors are equipped with everything they need to grow and succeed. This chapter offers a mix of visibility, practical guidance, and community connection that empowers each vendor to reach their potential. From exhibitions and pop-up shows to workshops and collaborations, each segment of “Her Story Begins” is designed to address the needs of our diverse community of women entrepreneurs.
As we continue to grow, “Her Story Begins” will be a pivotal part of AIWB’s mission to uplift and inspire, helping Indian women entrepreneurs carve out a successful path in the Austin community. We’re excited to see how this chapter will open new doors and bring meaningful stories to life, one entrepreneur at a time.
The AIWB website (www.aiwbcommunity.com) serves as a comprehensive platform for Indian women entrepreneurs to access resources, connect, and grow their businesses.
Key Functionalities:
Member Profiles: Allows vendors to create profiles that showcase their businesses, products, and services, enhancing visibility within the AIWB community and beyond.
Event Registration: Provides easy access to register for AIWB events, workshops, pop-up shows, and exhibitions, fostering networking and learning opportunities.
Content Hub: Features a blog and podcast section that shares inspiring entrepreneurial stories and practical insights, providing value and inspiration to members.
Resource Access: Offers resources for business development, vendor workshops, and mentorship programs, supporting members at various stages of their entrepreneurial journeys.
This website is designed to be a central, supportive space where AIWB members can grow, collaborate, and find the tools they need for success.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Although AIWB wasn’t established during the COVID-19 crisis, we have taken valuable lessons from its impact on small businesses. In future situations like this, AIWB will focus on enhancing digital readiness and business adaptability among our members. We plan to provide virtual workshops and networking sessions to ensure members can stay connected, learn, and collaborate even when in-person events aren’t possible. Additionally, we’ll offer digital business resources to help members build a strong online presence through e-commerce and social media strategies. Our team will include guidance on financial planning, supply chain flexibility, and effective customer engagement to help members navigate uncertainties. Lastly, we aim to create a reliable community support network with mentorship and resources that members can rely on during challenging times. Through these initiatives, AIWB is dedicated to helping Indian women entrepreneurs remain prepared, resilient, and connected, no matter the circumstances.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aiwbcommunity.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austin_indian_womeninbusiness/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558018701524
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@aiwbcommunity
