Santona Malakar

I bring over 15 years of cross-sector experience in entrepreneurship development, private sector strategy, and governance, combining hands-on business insight with inclusive, community-based approaches.

As a Director of Programs and board member, I’ve led initiatives that strengthen organizational systems, marketing and sales strategies, and operational efficiency for SMEs and agriculture-focused cooperatives.

A U.S. Department of State IVLP Fellow on Small Business & Entrepreneurship, I’ve worked with digital-focused, women-led entrepreneurs across Nepal, India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.

My background includes mentoring women-led agri-cooperatives and supporting marginalized founders to build investment-ready, sustainable ventures.

Companies that would most benefit from my advisory experience are:
> impact-driven SMEs, startups, and social enterprises—
particularly those in agribusiness, consumer products, and digital innovation, seeking to strengthen governance, enter new markets, or balance purpose with profitability.

I help founders and boards translate insight into strategy, and strategy into scalable, values-based growth.