priya Kothari

Hi, I’m Priya Kothari—a social entrepreneur, changemaker, and someone who genuinely believes that entrepreneurship is one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting social change.

With over 13 years of experience in entrepreneurship development, I’ve dedicated my career to building ecosystems that support first-generation entrepreneurs—especially women and youth from tribal, rural, and underserved communities. My work bridges grassroots realities with global platforms, helping local changemakers rise into leadership through access, mentorship, and real opportunities.

Currently, I serve as the CEO of YouthAid Worldwide, where I lead global programs to build entrepreneurship capacity in India, the U.S., and South Asia. I’m also the youngest Executive Committee member of CYDA, an organization that’s been a driving force for youth-led development in India. Through CYDA and YouthAid, I’ve had the privilege of designing and implementing several high-impact initiatives that combine sustainability, skills training, social media strategy, and youth engagement to spark scalable transformation.

Over the years, I’ve directly supported over 10,000 micro and nano entrepreneurs, especially young women navigating challenging environments. My flagship programs include YESUMMIT, one of South Asia’s largest grassroots entrepreneurship summits, and Udyomita Yatra, which supports early-stage women entrepreneurs across 12 Indian states and neighboring countries like Nepal and Bangladesh. These initiatives focus not just on business development, but on building confidence, leadership, and a culture of self-belief.

Beyond India, I’ve expanded my work into the U.S. startup and development space—where I serve as an advisor to several entrepreneurship initiatives. I’m an active member of DC Startup Week, where I mentor South Asian founders and nonprofit innovators. I also founded the South Asian Women Entrepreneurs Network to provide a space for support, collaboration, and visibility for Desi women entrepreneurs navigating global markets.

My academic background includes an MBA in Marketing and Advertising, a degree from Symbiosis Institute of Computer Studies, and a fellowship in International Development currently underway in the U.S. I specialize in impact marketing, sustainability, and social innovation—especially focused on building systems where women in non-traditional trades can thrive.

Over the years, I’ve collaborated with governments, NGOs, startups, and international organizations to create inclusive and scalable programs. Some of my key partnerships include working with the Maharashtra State Skill Development Department, MSSDS, UNICEF India, and CYDA, where we’ve developed programs like WASH Mitra Adisakhi—training tribal women to take charge of sanitation, solar systems, plumbing, and electrical work in their own communities.

My work has been showcased on global platforms including the United Nations CSW, and featured in several international conferences on environmental sustainability and entrepreneurship.

I deeply believe in connecting purpose with practice. That’s why every initiative I’m part of is rooted in lived experience, local ownership, and the idea that systemic change must be driven from within communities—not just for them. Whether I’m working with women in tribal Maharashtra or mentoring founders in Washington D.C., I bring the same intention: to create spaces where people—especially women—can thrive as leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

If your work intersects with grassroots innovation, women’s leadership, sustainability, or inclusive entrepreneurship, I’d love to connect. I’m always open to collaborations that prioritize people, purpose, and long-term impact.

Let’s build what’s next—together.