Overcoming Obstacles: 5 Inspiring Stories of LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs Breaking Boundaries

In this world of cut-throat competition, some stories of resilience leave an indelible mark in your mind. We feel happy reading about LGBTQ-led businesses challenging societal norms and breaking barriers. LGBT entrepreneurs in India are taking the market by storm, and paving the way for greater inclusivity and diversity. From humble beginnings and facing hardships to tasting success these stories of LGBTQ entrepreneurs are worth sharing. Join us in celebrating some of the successful entrepreneurs of India who are shattering the stereotypes and changing the world. 

Inspiring Stories of LGBT Entrepreneurs You Should Know

From handicrafts, fashion, and cosmetics to marketplaces today India’s entrepreneurs are increasingly creating a more inclusive business world. Let’s get to know some of these stories of LGBTQ entrepreneurs. 

Ashish Chopra, Founder of BeUnic, an E-marketplace for the LGBTQ community

As distinctive as the brand name, this entrepreneur started an e-marketplace BeUnic for the LGBTQ community helping over 27 LGBT entrepreneurs sell their products online. Chopra was the first runner-up of Mr. Gay India 2018, and today his platform has become one of the leading gender-inclusive places for pride-themed products. His platform is also proving to be a tool for the financial empowerment of many queer-led small businesses in India. After appearing on Shark Tank India this mom-son duo has gained immense recognition and praise both from the investors and the audience. 

Gagged by Rudraksh - a Gender Free Fashion Brand

From a thrift store consignment to a homegrown gender-free inclusive fashion brand Rudraksh has come a long way. Gagged stands for equality sustainability and affordability for everyone who can celebrate colors, patterns, and dresses up because it makes them feel well. Once bullied for his queer fashion style, today this Ghaziabad-based gay designer is celebrated among the LGBTQ community with thousands of followers. 

“My style and fashion is my identity. When I was in college, people often borrowed my shirts” says Rudraksh. Finding acceptance in society is always a big challenge for any entrepreneur, however, with his mom and sister’s help, this successful entrepreneur went on to launch his homegrown label in 2022. 

Crochet by Kunal - A Customisable Slow Fashion Brand

Love for yarns and knots led Kunal Chourasia from Mumbai to build his slow fashion brand Crochet by Kunal. During the pandemic when everyone reignited their hobbies, this Mumbai lad found solace in crochet. Following his nani’s passion he has been practicing crochet from a young age. 

Societal norms for the LGBTQ community are challenging. When Kunal’s family was dead against his sexuality he fought for his dream and acceptance. The inspiring stories of this LGBT entrepreneur have been widely covered in the press and he today successfully makes crochet plushies and accessories. He also conducts crochet workshops for the LGBTQ community. 

Cosmic Jalebi - A Queer-Owned Brand for Tote Bags

One of the most interesting and inspiring stories of LGBT entrepreneurs is of Syed and Utkarsh co-founders of Cosmic Jalebi, a queer-owned tote bag brand. After trudging through miles of rejection, oppression, and being pushed to fit a predetermined mould they decided to vent their frustration and give way to self-expression through Cosmic Jalebi. From T-shirts and tote bags to enamel pins they are making a wave in the slow-fashion world. 

CTRL+P by Puji

Puji who identifies as they/them is the founder of CRTL+P whose cute stationery, socks, and apparel are popular among the community. This young successful entrepreneur with their ethical made-in-India products has brought in a change in the pride-merchandise category. Moving away from the flashy flags and stickers, their cute stationery has a vast collection of journals, notebooks, cards, and apparel like t-shirts and cute socks. 

Entrepreneurship is a skill and becoming a successful entrepreneur even after facing hardships and societal challenges is another feather on the cap. LGBTQ entrepreneurs not only promote inclusivity but also lead the way in innovation, breaking new ground and upending the status quo. The success stories of LGBTQ entrepreneurs are a potent reminder of their value, diversity, and resilience for the corporate sector. From shattering stereotypes to providing income to workers they have paved their way.