Shweta Rajpal Kohli is a dynamic and visionary leader who currently serves as the President and CEO of the Startup Policy Forum (SPF). Known for her deep expertise in policy advocacy and her strong commitment to fostering innovation, Kohli has become an influential figure in India’s startup ecosystem. Through her leadership at SPF, she has worked tirelessly to support startups by addressing policy barriers, promoting a conducive environment for innovation, and facilitating collaboration between industry stakeholders.
Before taking on her leadership role at SPF, Kohli had an impactful career at Peak XV, a leading private equity firm. Her time at Peak XV allowed her to develop a comprehensive understanding of the startup world, from the investor’s perspective, giving her valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that entrepreneurs face. This experience has been instrumental in shaping her leadership approach at SPF, where she now channels her expertise to help startups navigate regulatory hurdles and gain the support they need to thrive.
As President and CEO of the Startup Policy Forum, Kohli’s responsibilities go beyond traditional corporate leadership; she is deeply involved in advocating for policies that drive the growth of the startup ecosystem. SPF works closely with government agencies, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs to ensure that the startup community’s concerns are heard and addressed. Under Kohli’s guidance, SPF has become an important voice in the advocacy for policy reforms aimed at creating a more favorable business environment for startups.
One of the core areas Kohli has focused on at SPF is simplifying regulatory processes for startups. Understanding that cumbersome regulations can be a major obstacle to entrepreneurial growth, she has championed efforts to streamline these processes, making it easier for startups to register, scale, and operate. Her work has also involved advocating for the creation of government schemes that provide financial and logistical support to early-stage startups, particularly those focused on innovation and technology.
Kohli’s leadership is characterized by a pragmatic approach to policy advocacy. Rather than just advocating for broad, generalized reforms, she takes a data-driven approach, identifying specific pain points within the startup ecosystem and working toward actionable solutions. Whether it’s addressing taxation issues, improving access to funding, or promoting intellectual property protection, Kohli ensures that SPF’s efforts are aligned with the evolving needs of India’s startup community.
In addition to her work at SPF, Kohli is an active thought leader who frequently speaks at industry events, panel discussions, and forums, where she shares her insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, and the future of startups in India. She is passionate about empowering women entrepreneurs and has been a vocal advocate for increasing diversity in the startup ecosystem. Kohli firmly believes that inclusive leadership and diverse perspectives are key drivers of innovation and long-term success.
Her leadership at SPF has been crucial in shaping India’s startup policy landscape. Under her direction, SPF has worked on initiatives that encourage collaboration between startups, investors, and government bodies, creating an ecosystem where all players can thrive. Kohli’s strategic vision and dedication to promoting the startup community have made her a prominent figure in the world of policy advocacy and entrepreneurship.
In conclusion, Shweta Rajpal Kohli’s journey as the President and CEO of the Startup Policy Forum is a testament to her exceptional leadership and deep commitment to empowering startups. With her wealth of experience, strategic insights, and advocacy for a supportive policy environment, Kohli continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of India’s startup ecosystem and ensuring that the country remains a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.