Anu Bidani, Founder and CEO of STEM Minds
Anu Bidani is the founder and CEO of STEM Minds, a social enterprise that empowers youth to develop a love of learning through STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) education. Prior to starting STEM Minds, Anu worked as an executive at Scotiabank for 20 years, becoming their Head of eStrategy and Solutions. Anu is an award-winning entrepreneur who is passionate about empowering the next generation of global leaders and innovators. Anu has a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, an MBA from Dalhousie University and has completed the High Potential Leadership Program from Harvard Business School.
What are your thoughts on using a business growth platform to help take your business forward?
I am a big supporter of building processes using successful frameworks. I think it is really important as you are setting up your business for a growth trajectory to spend the time and build proper processes. This not only will bring stability to the team with clarity but also allow you to be efficient with resources and processes.
What are the barriers to women entrepreneurs? Have you faced any struggles or barriers in your pursuits of success throughout your career?
There are many barriers that women entrepreneurs face from accessing funding to dealing with unconscious biases on the capabilities of women. I have been patronized by so many male investors that I have lost count. I have always looked at barriers as opportunities for changing the dialogue, albeit is very hard to work through. My biggest struggle has been fundraising for my startup. This journey is testing my resilience at levels I did not expect. I am hopeful that I will cross this path with renewed learning and hope.
What is the power of building a network? Do you have any success stories about finding new business through your networking?
I have grown my business through networks. When I pivoted from my corporate career to entrepreneurship; from a financial service vertical to education vertical; I found myself with no network. I worked through the community, small business programs, government programs, accelerators to build my community. I have seen the power of community to uplift you, fill in knowledge gaps, give you support when needed. It allows you to grow. I am an SHEO activator and a venture. That community has given me so much support that I am grateful for. From access to funding to contacts and guidance – all in one place.
How can women entrepreneurs maintain wellness and achieve work/life balance?
I truly believe to be successful in times of today when there are so many priorities to juggle, self-care is really important. Work-life balance is all about choices we have in our control to make. Taking downtime for yourself with no meetings and emails, going for walks and practicing meditation, having fun with the simple thing in life all contribute to happiness. We all need to do that from the lens of what works for you. There is no right or wrong way of doing self-care. It is all about what works for you.
Reflections on a journey, important moments, and realizations?
The journey of an entrepreneur is not easy. It is a rollercoaster ride with highs and lows. In this journey I have realized no matter what happens, my family is always there for me. I cherish those moments and will always hold them close to me.
Encourage others: Share your know-how on developing a female-led enterprise?
Building a female-led enterprise is about believing in yourself and others around you. Letting people grow and be their best in their own skin.
