Amazon India Collaborates with Govt Bodies to Support Artisans, Women-Led Enterprises, and Emerging Startups

• Amazon aims to expand digital access and income opportunities for traditional artisan communities through the PM Vishwakarma Scheme
• Endeavours to strengthen women-led businesses and early-stage startups through enhanced Saheli Accelerate and prioritised launch assistance to onboard on Amazon. 
• Supports advance logistics research and multimodal transport innovation through a new collaboration with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya

Amazon India today announced collaborations with multiple Government of India-run institutions to support traditional artisans, women-led enterprises, emerging startups, and research-driven innovation in India’s logistics ecosystem. These partnerships with the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME), the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), and Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) under the Ministry of Railways – aim to expand market access, build capability, and contribute meaningfully to India’s economic priorities.

Speaking on the partnerships, Samir Kumar, Country Manager, Amazon India said,

We are committed to working closely with these Government of India institutions to support artisans, entrepreneurs, and the evolving logistics ecosystem. These collaborations are opportunities to contribute to India’s long-term development goals while expanding access and opportunity for communities and businesses across the country.

Amazon is collaborating with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV), India’s first university dedicated to transportation and logistics, to deepen research and sector capability. The partnership is being formalized through an MoU with the Office of the Vice Chancellor and will focus on railway freight corridors, multimodal transport, technology-led logistics efficiency, and sustainability initiatives. It will also include the publication of a report on warehousing opportunities and challenges in India. As part of the engagement, Amazon will support a dedicated research chair position at GSV to advance long-term work in areas of shared interest.

Prof. Manoj Choudhary, Vice Chancellor, Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, said,

GSV is committed to shaping the future of India’s logistics sector through rigorous research and specialised talent development, being the only university for the sector in the country. Our collaboration with the logistics leader Amazon India brings valuable industry insights that will help informed planning, design, and innovation across logistics and transportation through coworking projects.

Amazon India has also partnered with MoMSME to support the PM Vishwakarma Scheme, which enables traditional artisans and craftspeople – including blacksmiths, goldsmiths, potters, carpenters, and sculptors – whose skills are passed down through generations. These artisans will be onboarded on amazon.in under Amazon’s Karigar program enabling them to showcase handmade products across categories such as apparel, home décor, footwear, and jewellery. Amazon’s Karigar program works with government bodies and artisan cooperatives to preserve traditional crafts and provide artisans with greater digital and market access.

Dr. Rajneesh, Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, said,

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme aims to strengthen India’s traditional artisans by improving access to tools, training, and markets. Our collaboration with Amazon India will support these artisans in participating more meaningfully in the digital economy and in building sustainable livelihoods, contributing towards our vision of a Viksit Bharat. 

Amazon has also expanded its collaboration with DPIIT to further support women-led businesses and early-stage startups. Under the strengthened partnership, the Saheli Accelerate program will scale from 18 to 50 women-led businesses – with a sharper focus on Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities and deeper mentorship support. Amazon will additionally offer prioritized onboarding and launch assistance to direct to customer startups joining the Amazon.in marketplace.

Shri Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, said, “DPIIT continues to work toward strengthening India’s innovation landscape, especially among women-led businesses and young startups. Startup India’s collaboration with Amazon India helps extend these efforts by broadening access to mentorship, markets, and early-stage support.”

TiE Launches Mission 1x10x100 to Ignite Entrepreneurship Across India’s Tier-2 to Tier-4 Cities

• From Raipur to Rajkot, TiE New Chapters focuses on Tier-2/Tier-3 Cities

The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), which has played a pivotal role in creating over $1 trillion in global entrepreneurial wealth, is now turning its focus to India’s Tier-2, Tier-3, and Tier-4 cities as part of its ambitious Mission 1x10x100. TiE currently has 30 Chapters and over 8000 members in India alone.

With the vision of fostering one million entrepreneurs in the next decade, generating over 10 million jobs and contributing more than $100 billion to the global GDP by 2035, TiE is expanding its footprint by launching 20 new potential spoke chapters across India to mentor aspiring founders, connect them with global partners, and provide the training and exposure needed to scale.

“To achieve this, TiE, which currently has 62 chapters globally, plans to increase the number to 100 by the end of this year. Of the 38 new chapters, at least 20 will be in India, across Tier-3 and Tier-4 cities such as Raipur, Rourkela, Madurai, Salem, Amravathi/Vijayawada/Nellore, Bareilly, Gorakhpur, Amritsar, Rohtak, Ranchi, Ludhiana, Jamshedpur, Warangal, Jammu/Srinagar, Goa, Kozhikode, Guwahati, Belgaum, Nasik/Jalgaon, and Rajkot. On the global front, we will also expand into cities like Seoul, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and Ho Chi Minh City,” said Vijay N Menon, Executive Director, TiE Global.

Murali Bukkapatnam, Chair of TiE Global Board of Trustees 2025, said, “India’s next wave of entrepreneurship will come from its heartlands. Our expansion into Tier-2, Tier-3, and Tier-4 cities ensures that entrepreneurs outside the metros have the same access to mentorship, capital, and global networks. This is about igniting possibilities across Bharat and making entrepreneurship a truly inclusive movement.”

TiE is also partnering with various state governments to align with local startup policies and unlock state-level resources, collaborating with corporates and academic institutions to strengthen innovation pipelines, and engaging with global investors and ecosystem partners to give smaller city entrepreneurs access to international markets.

With India already home to the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, TiE believes that bold, inclusive initiatives are essential to unlock the entrepreneurial potential of smaller cities. “By strengthening its reach into new geographies, TiE aims to catalyze job creation, foster innovation, and inspire at least 35% of new entrepreneurs to be women, ensuring that the promise of entrepreneurship extends across every corner of the country,” Murali added.

TiE has built a strong legacy of mentoring entrepreneurs and supporting women-led ventures over last 25 years in India. Further, it will host the TiE Global Summit in Jaipur later this year, bringing in the global community. The summit will showcase India’s vibrant startup ecosystem, opportunities from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, and TiE’s commitment to empowering the next wave of entrepreneurship across the country.

About TiE Global:

Founded in 1992 in Silicon Valley, TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship across industries and at all stages of the entrepreneurial lifecycle. With over 10,000 members across 65 cities in 15 countries, TiE empowers startups and entrepreneurs through mentoring, networking, education, funding, and incubation.

For more information, visit: https://tie.org

Meghalaya’s PRIME Rural Unveils RuralPreneur 2025, Pledges ₹18 Crore to Empower 172+ Entrepreneurs Across 52 Blocks

PRIME Rural marked a historic milestone with the inauguration of the first-ever RuralPreneur 2025, officiated by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. This landmark event celebrated and empowered rural entrepreneurs from across Meghalaya. During his address, the Honourable Chief Minister announced the expansion of doorstep incubation support to all 52 blocks of the state under the PRIME Rural program. Financial support of up to ₹18 crore was pledged to provide rural entrepreneurs with Selco-built environmentally friendly facilities, solar energy solutions, and essential machinery to scale operations and enhance productivity in the coming month, reaching to more than 172 beneficiaries. An initial allocation of more than ₹3.4 crore in funds was disbursed to support rural entrepreneurs state-wide.

Held at the Shillong State Central Library, the event brought together over 250 rural entrepreneurs from every district, showcasing the vibrant potential and creativity thriving in Meghalaya’s rural economy. Dignitaries in attendance included Shri Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary; Dr. Vijay Kumar D, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary; Smti. Saloni Verma, IAS, Executive Director, Meghalaya Basin Management Agency; Shri. Swapnil Tembe, IAS, Secretary, Meghalaya and Dr. Harish Hande, CEO, SELCO Foundation, where the official catalogue book of PRIME Rural was also launched.

Speaking at the inauguration of RuralPreneur, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said, “At the heart of RuralPreneur 2025 lies the belief that transformation begins with a change in mindset. We must encourage our people, especially our youth, to embrace innovation, take risks, and see challenges as opportunities. Entrepreneurship thrives when individuals are willing to step beyond their comfort zones, but it also needs a strong system of support to sustain and guide them.”

In Meghalaya, we recognize that even the smallest details matter when building enterprises. Attention to micro aspects—whether in planning, execution, or delivery—makes the difference between good and great. Yet, no entrepreneur succeeds alone. True progress happens when we work as a team, share ideas, and uplift one another with passion and commitment.

He further elaborated “The Prime Rural initiative is designed to play a crucial role in helping our entrepreneurs move forward with confidence. By nurturing talent, building networks, and developing skills, we are creating an ecosystem where rural entrepreneurs can flourish and compete on larger platforms. RuralPreneur is not just a celebration—it is a movement of growth and resilience. Together, with the right mindset, unwavering dedication, and collective spirit, Meghalaya’s entrepreneurs will pave the way for inclusive development and prosperity.”

Speaking at RuralPreneur inauguration Dr. Vijay Kumar D, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary said “In Meghalaya, we are witnessing a remarkable journey of rural entrepreneurship, powered by a strong and evolving support system. Through initiatives like PRIME Rural, incubation, mentorship, and access to markets, we are creating an ecosystem where ideas from rural areas can grow into impactful enterprises. The energy, creativity, and resilience of our entrepreneurs are inspiring, and with the right guidance and resources, they are scaling new heights. What we see today is just the beginning—Meghalaya is steadily becoming a hub where rural entrepreneurs can thrive, contribute to the economy, and create opportunities for their communities.”

Smti. Saloni Verma, IAS, Executive Director, Meghalaya Basin Management Agency, said, “The launch of RuralPreneur marks a historic step for Meghalaya as we expand PRIME Rural to all 52 blocks.

This initiative ensures doorstep incubation and consistent support for rural innovators, enabling them to access knowledge, markets, and technologies that can transform their livelihoods.”

She added, “RuralPreneur is designed to bridge the gap between rural talent and mainstream markets, fostering economic inclusion and job creation. Our focus is not only to nurture rural enterprises but also to create a sustainable ecosystem where they can thrive.”

Smti. Minha Riyaz Khan, Programme Lead, PRIME Rural, said, “As a lead of the PRIME Rural programme, it gives me immense pride and gratitude. Over the past year, we’ve had the unique privilege of working alongside an incredibly diverse group of entrepreneurs, fessociates and associates across 12 blocks in Meghalaya. PRIME Rural programme has been more than just a professional commitment—it has been a deeply personal and transformative experience. The fellowship enabled us to co-create solutions that are locally relevant and sustainable. What ties it all together is the belief that development is most impactful when it is inclusive, participatory, and rooted in local context.”

RuralPreneur 2025 featured a diverse array of stalls, product displays, and networking sessions, enabling rural innovators to connect with markets, investors, and mentors. Entrepreneurs showcased traditional crafts, agri-products, food innovations, and sustainable solutions, reflecting Meghalaya’s unique cultural and natural wealth.

This event sets the stage for Meghalaya to emerge as a model state for rural entrepreneurship in India, with PRIME Rural’s expansion poised to transform the state’s entrepreneurial landscape in the years to come.

About PRIME Rural

PRIME Rural is Meghalaya’s leading incubation hub, dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across the state. Through PRIME Rural, this mission extends into rural communities, providing doorstep incubation to every village and uncovering hidden entrepreneurial talent. The program embarks on an intensive 18-month journey with passionate individuals, offering tailored support, resources, and mentorship to unlock their full potential. The goal is to nurture rural entrepreneurs who are self-sufficient and globally competitive, positioning Meghalaya as a hub of world-class entrepreneurial talent.

Visakhapatnam Launches World's First MedTech University

India is setting a global precedent with the launch of the Global MedTech University at the Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ) in Visakhapatnam.

• Location: Within AMTZ, one of the world’s largest medtech manufacturing clusters
• Launch Timeline: Academic operations begin in 2025–26
• Programs Offered:
  • MBA in Medical Regulatory Approvals & Entrepreneurship
  • MTech in Medical Technology Devices
  • MTech in Bioengineering
  • PhD in Medical Technology & Regulatory Affairs

Purpose & Impact

• India currently imports 80% of its medical devices, including diagnostic and imaging tools.
• The university will develop skilled professionals tailored to industry needs, reducing reliance on imports.
• Students will gain hands-on training from experts within AMTZ’s 140+ medtech companies.

Global Collaboration

• Created through a public-private partnership, the university will collaborate with global institutions to boost research and innovation.
• Led by Founding Director Prof. Hanumanthu Purushotham, it’s envisioned as a hub of healthcare technology and self-reliance.

AIFI, India’s Apex Forging Body, Unveils GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum

In a landmark initiative set to redefine the future of India’s forging sector, the Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI) has announced the launch of the GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum, a first-of-its-kind platform in India aimed at nurturing emerging leaders in the forging industry. The Forum is a visionary step to empower the new generation of business leaders as they step into a globalised industrial landscape marked by innovation, rapid product evolution, and sustainability imperatives.

With India’s economy accelerating at an average growth rate of 7.2% over the past three fiscal years, and industries swiftly embracing disruptive technologies such as AI, IoT, robotics, and fintech, the forging sector stands at the threshold of a significant transformation. The GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum is AIFI’s proactive response to this new industrial paradigm, recognising the enthusiasm, adaptability, and global outlook of the next generation in family-owned forging businesses.

Speaking on this transformative initiative, Mr. Yash Munot, President, Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI), said, “The GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum is not just a platform, it’s a movement to shape the future of the Indian forging industry. Our vision is to position Indian forging as a global benchmark for innovation, quality, and sustainability. Through this forum, we aim to harness the creativity, energy, and ambition of the next generation of entrepreneurs."

Mr. Yash Munot, President, Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI)

"We are committed to offering them strategic insights, access to industry’s best practices, leadership training through academia-industry partnerships, and global exposure. This initiative will play a critical role in addressing succession challenges, updating traditional business models and building a collaborative ecosystem that ensures the industry's sustained growth and global competitiveness. Our mission remains focused on promoting excellence in technology, operations and leadership anchored firmly in sustainable and inclusive development, ” said Mr Manot. 

The Forum seeks to provide a dedicated platform for young forging entrepreneurs to engage in peer-to-peer knowledge exchange, participate in leadership development programmes and stay aligned with emerging global trends and technologies. Its activities include strategic sessions, academic collaborations, policy discussions, and exposure visits to innovation hubs. The initiative marked its first milestone with a launch event in Hyderabad, which included a visit to the CII-Godrej Green Business Centre, India’s first LEED Platinum-certified green building and an engaging leadership workshop titled “Re-inventing Family-Owned Businesses and Shifting Orbits of Growth”, conducted by renowned innovation strategist Dr. Rahul More.

Mr. Ankit Mehta, Director, KLM Forge Pvt. Ltd., Pune, said, “In an evolving industrial landscape, collaboration and innovation are more critical than ever. AIFI GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum invites young forgers like me to actively engage with peers, exchange ideas on modern forging practices and explore the latest technologies shaping our industry”

Future activities under the Forum will include interactions with young leaders from across industries, leadership programmes in collaboration with top academic institutions, overseas study missions, and capacity-building initiatives on cutting-edge topics such as artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, cybersecurity and ESG frameworks. By creating a culture of continuous learning and forward-thinking, the AIFI GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum is set to become a defining platform for shaping the future of the forging industry in India.

Mr. Sivarjun Rachamallu, GM, Rachamallu Forgings Pvt. Ltd., Hyderabad, said, “I am honoured to be part of the GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum, a visionary initiative by the Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI). GenNext serves as a platform for the next generation of forging professionals, where fresh perspectives meet seasoned expertise. The forum aims to drive positive transformation in the forging sector by advancing technology, promoting sustainability, and contributing to the development of progressive industry policies at the governmental level.”

This initiative aligns seamlessly with AIFI’s broader vision to position the Indian forging industry as a global leader in manufacturing excellence, innovation, and sustainability. Through strategic advocacy, skill development, and a strong focus on collaborative growth, AIFI remains committed to empowering the sector and driving its transformation on the world stage.

About Association of Indian Forging Industry

Established in 1965, the Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI) is the strongest, oldest Forging Association with highest members from the industry in India. The Indian Forging Industry has always been a major growth driver of the Indian manufacturing sector and is one of the important industries for the success of automobile, power sector and general engineering in the country. The Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI) is the umbrella organization of the forging Industry in India with more than 200 members across India. Its members’ products include rough forgings and/or machined/finished parts like Crankshafts, Connecting Rods, Camshafts, Shifted Fork, Steering Components, Crown Propeller Shafts, Gear Box Components; Crown Wheel and Pinions, Front Axle Beams, Rear Axle Shafts, Earth Moving Link, Suspension parts, CV joint parts, Braking parts, Auto electrical components, Railway Wheel, Flanges/Pipe Fittings, Industrial Valves etc. The forging industry is a major supplier to the auto companies and a critical industry that generates employment.

AIFI has been the spokes body of the Indian Forging Industry for about six decades. It has played a major role in encouraging proactive dialogue between all the relevant stakeholders like the industry and Government (both in terms of suggestions for policy making and problem-solving), as also between the industry and the market (User industries — domestic and global customers.) India is the 2nd largest producer of forgings globally next to China.

TiE Delhi-NCR Concludes 1st Edition of Student Entrepreneurship Summit 2025 on a High Note, Showcasing Youth-Led Innovation and Startup Spirit

“Rules of sportsmanship also apply to entrepreneurship : Having self confidence and giving your 100%, blurring out the noise to achieve the goal"- Nehal Wadhera, Indian Cricketer, Punjab Kings (IPL Cricketer) at TiE Delhi-NCR’s Student Entrepreneurship Summit

TiE Delhi-NCR, at the forefront of India’s startup ecosystem and a flagship chapter of The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), concluded the inaugural edition of the Student Entrepreneurship Summit 2025. The event emerged as a powerful celebration of student innovation and ambition, bringing together over 400 students from more than 50 leading schools and colleges across India.

The summit served as a dynamic launchpad for aspiring entrepreneurs — a space where classroom learning met real-world experience. The full-day event featured keynote addresses, fireside chats, panel discussions, startup showcases, hands-on masterclasses, creating an immersive experience that inspired and empowered the next generation of changemakers.

“Two high-energy days packed with ideas, innovation, and inspiration — from proudly hosting the TYE Global Finals to launching the maiden Student Entrepreneurship Summit and showcasing brilliant prototypes at the Startup Showcase. At TiE Delhi-NCR, we’re proud to be the torchbearers of a national movement to nurture tomorrow’s founders through mentorship, exposure, and opportunity", said Upasana Sharma, Executive Director, TiE Delhi-NCR.

A standout moment of the day was a fireside chat with Indian cricketer Nehal Wadhera, rising star of the IPL Team, Punjab Kings, who offered compelling insights on resilience, ambition, and mindset drawing parallels between sports and entrepreneurship. Speaking at the event he said- "Rules of sportsmanship also apply to entrepreneurship: Having self confidence and giving your 100%, blurring out the noise to achieve the goal”

The speaker lineup brought together an eclectic mix of founders, investors, professionals, and creators. R. Satya Narayanan, Founder & Chairman, CareerLauncher; Aurnob Godinho, Director of Brand,Bombay Shaving Company, Anoushka Jolly, Founder, Kavach App, Pankaj Bansal, Assistant Manager at National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI); Vineet Sagar, Managing Partner at Venture Garage & many more.

Throughout the day, students engaged directly with startup founders, venture capitalists, educators, and policymakers gaining valuable exposure to the inner workings of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Another major highlight of the day was TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) Global Finals— TiE’s flagship global program for high school students, designed to nurture future founders through hands-on learning, leadership training, and startup building.

This year, TiE Delhi-NCR proudly hosted the TYE Global Finals, bringing together 16 top teams from TiE chapters across India. These student innovators pitched their business ideas to an esteemed jury, with the top 6 teams selected for the final round. All participating teams also showcased their working prototypes in a dynamic startup showcase, followed by rapid-fire Elevator Pitches that captured the essence of their ventures in minutes.

TiE Delhi-NCR's Team Syncora Wearables proudly secured a spot among the top 6 teams at the TYE Global Finals. Joining them on this prestigious list are Team Key Beauty and Team Kymavi from TiE Seattle, Team The Japa Store from TiE Udaipur, Team Fibre Flow from TiE Houston, and Team OOMI from TiE Rajasthan. These exceptional student-led ventures showcased the remarkable innovation and entrepreneurial talent emerging from TiE chapters across the world.

The TYE Global Finals featured a wide range of awards recognizing outstanding student ventures. Track Awards were presented across key categories for both India and USA tracks, including Best Customer Validation India TiE Ahmedabad (Breeze Power), TiE Rajasthan (OOMI), TiE Ahmedabad (Pellet Nova), Best Customer Validation US TiE Carolinas (Focus Drive), TiE Sillicon Valley (PAW SCAN), TiE DC (Safe Bytes) Best Business Model India was TiE Bangalore (Florascent), TiE Hyderabad (Familiar Faces) TiE Rajasthan & TiE Chennai (Stubblet & Watt Works), Best Business Model US TiE Boston (Inventrack), TiE Seattle (Key Beauty), TiE Tampa Bay (Slip Shield+) Best Execution India TiE Kolkata (Solayr), TiE Udaipur & TiE Vizag (The Japa store & Brainstorm Brigade) TiE Chandigarh (Intellilock), Best Execution US TiE Atlanta (Drive Quest), TiE Carolinas (Zone) Fiber Flow (TiE Houston) and Best Teamwork India TiE UP (Get My Team), TiE Kerala (S.M.A.R.T & isafe), Best Teamwork US TiE Seattle (Kymavi), TiE Houston (Step-In), TiE Dallas (Zen Buddy).Special Recognition Awards included the Winner of Maker Faire India TiE Rajasthan(OOMI), Winner of Maker Faire USA- TiE Carolinas ( Zone), and the Best Elevator Pitch Winner TiE Udaipur (The Japa Store) and Fibre Flow (TiE Houston). The event concluded with the Final Awards, announcing the 2nd Runner-Up TiE Rajasthan (OOMI), 1st Runner-Up TiE Seatle (Key Beauty), and the Winner of TYE Globals 2025 TiE Seattle (Kymavi).

The event concluded on a high note, leaving behind a renewed sense of purpose — to empower students to think boldly, act bravely, and build ventures that address real-world challenges with creativity, confidence, and compassion. This impactful initiative was made possible through the steadfast support of Amity University as the Academic Partner, co-powered by Sparkl and Gold sponsor - Career Launcher.

Govt Collab with Bezos & Rockefeller Backed GEAPP To Accelerate Climate-Tech Entrepreneurship In India

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), a central government department under India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) to accelerate climate-tech entrepreneurship in India.

The GEAPP was founded through a collaboration of The Rockefeller Foundation, the IKEA Foundation, a Dutch charitable organization founded in 1982 by Ingvar Kamprad, the founder of IKEA, and the Bezos Earth Fund, a $10 billion philanthropic commitment by Jeff Bezos to combat climate change. GEAPP was launched at COP26 in 2021 to accelerate clean energy access and drive sustainable economic growth.

The two-year DPIIT-GEAPP partnership, with a provision for extension, will support early-stage climate-tech startups through funding access, mentorship, pilot opportunities, and market linkages. The initiative seeks to build a strong pipeline of scalable, investable ventures aligned with India’s net-zero ambitions.

Key Highlights of the Collaboration

• ENTICE Challenge: A competitive platform offering up to USD 500,000 in rewards for startups developing impactful clean energy solutions.
• Funding & Mentorship: Early-stage climate-tech startups will receive investment support through partners like Spectrum Impact and Avana Capital.
• Integration with Startup India: DPIIT will connect the initiative to Startup India’s network, ensuring outreach through major government schemes.
• Net-Zero Vision: The partnership aligns with India’s long-term climate goals, fostering scalable and investable ventures.

Sanjiv, Joint Secretary at DPIIT, emphasized that India’s climate leadership depends on a strong entrepreneurial base.

Saurabh Kumar, Vice President – India at GEAPP, described the MoU as a pivotal step toward systemic change through government-private sector collaboration.

NITI Aayog Collab With Former Microsoft India Chairman Founded GAME to Boost Local Entrepreneurship

Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship (GAME) and NITI Aayog have officially joined forces to strengthen entrepreneurship ecosystems across India, reported news agency IANS. Their collaboration, announced on May 2, 2025, will kick off with pilot projects in Nagpur, Visakhapatnam, and select locations in Uttar Pradesh.

With a mission to create 50 million new jobs by 2030, the Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship (GAME) was founded by Ravi Venkatesan, Madan Padaki, and Mekin Maheshwari, in 2018.

While Ravi Venkatesan is a former Chairman of Microsoft India, Madan Padaki is a seasoned entrepreneur, he co-founded MeritTrac, one of India’s largest skills assessment companies. And, Mekin Maheshwari was previously Chief People Officer at Flipkart, he has been instrumental in shaping India's startup culture. He also founded Udhyam Learning Foundation, which focuses on entrepreneurial education.

The initiative with NITI Aayog aims to empower local entrepreneurs by bringing together key stakeholders—government bodies, corporations, educational institutions, financial organizations, and community groups. GAME will implement proven methodologies such as access to finance, capacity-building programs, and policy advocacy to create self-sustaining business ecosystems.

The Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship (GAME) has launched pilot projects in Nagpur, Visakhapatnam, and Uttar Pradesh in collaboration with NITI Aayog. These initiatives aim to create self-sustaining entrepreneurial ecosystems by bringing together government bodies, corporates, educational institutions, financial organizations, and community leaders.

Key Focus Areas:

• Access to Finance: Helping entrepreneurs secure funding to start and scale businesses.
• Capacity Building: Providing training and mentorship to strengthen business skills.
• Policy Advocacy: Addressing systemic barriers to entrepreneurship.
• Community-Driven Initiatives: Encouraging local collaboration to foster innovation.

GAME has already impacted over 300,000 entrepreneurs, and this partnership is expected to accelerate opportunities for aspiring business owners.

Ketul Acharya, President of GAME, emphasized the transformative power of entrepreneurship, stating that this partnership will inspire innovation and drive inclusive growth. With GAME already impacting over 300,000 entrepreneurs, this collaboration is expected to accelerate opportunities for aspiring business owners.

Jagannathuni Ratha Chakralu: A Poetic Call to Resilience for Entrepreneurs

In the vast landscape of Telugu poetry, Sri Sri’s Jagannathuni Ratha Chakralu stands as a powerful anthem of perseverance and revolution. Written as part of his seminal work Mahaprasthanam, this poem is not just a literary masterpiece—it is a rallying cry for those who feel crushed under the weight of adversity. For struggling entrepreneurs, the poem offers a profound message: keep moving forward, no matter how insurmountable the obstacles may seem.

If you are an entrepreneur building something from the ground, determination, and a whole lot of resilience—just like the unstoppable chariot in the poem. This poem is for you.

A part this Telugu poem translates to English as—

Don't cry, don't cry. 
The wheels of the chariot of Jagannath are coming; they are coming

The apocalyptic chant of the chariot wheel

Will set it on the earth

Will create an earthquake

Where to?

To create an earthquake! 

The Poem’s Essence: A Chariot That Never Stops

The poem vividly describes the relentless movement of Jagannath’s chariot, symbolizing unstoppable progress. Sri Sri addresses the downtrodden—those who have been rejected, defeated, and left behind by society. He urges them not to despair, for the wheels of change are in motion. The chariot does not pause for setbacks  it crushes stagnation and propels forward. 

For entrepreneurs, this imagery is deeply relevant. Every startup faces moments of failure—funding hurdles, market rejections, and unforeseen crises. But just like the chariot, the spirit of innovation must keep rolling. The poem reminds us that setbacks are temporary, and those who persist will eventually shape the future.

Lessons for Entrepreneurs

1. Resilience Over Regret The poem’s refrain—“Don’t cry, don’t cry. The wheels of the chariot are coming!”—is a direct call to action. Entrepreneurs must embrace failures as stepping stones rather than reasons to quit. Every setback is an opportunity to refine strategies and push forward.
2. Revolutionary Thinking Sri Sri’s poetry was deeply rooted in social change. He believed in breaking old systems to create new possibilities. Entrepreneurs, too, must challenge conventional norms, disrupt industries, and bring fresh perspectives to the table.
3. Momentum is Key The chariot does not stop—it moves with force, crushing obstacles in its path. Similarly, businesses must maintain momentum. Whether it’s adapting to market shifts or pivoting strategies, stagnation is the real enemy.
4. Community and Collective Strength The poem speaks to thepower of unity—the collective force of the oppressed rising together. Entrepreneurs should recognize the value of networking, collaboration, and shared vision. No great venture is built in isolation.

Final Thoughts: The Entrepreneur’s Chariot

Sri Sri’s Jagannathuni Ratha Chakralu is more than poetry—it is a philosophy of unstoppable progress. For entrepreneurs navigating uncertainty, the poem serves as a reminder that the journey is never truly over. The wheels of innovation, resilience, and determination must keep turning.

So, if you ever feel like giving up, remember: the chariot is coming. Keep moving forward.🚀

Amazon Promotes Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy for 30,000 Women and Young People

‘Entrepreneurship for Enablement’ program has a vision to enable and transform local businesses, providing them with financial and digital literacy and opportunities to become sellers on ecommerce platforms, ensuring long term success of this innovative enterprise

Amazon India announced the launch of a three-year programme “Entrepreneurship for Enablement” to help 30,000 women and young people learn about starting their own business and managing their finances. The programme will run in collaboration with ACCESS Development Services, a livelihoods support organization with focus on incubating innovations for sustainable livelihoods. Co-created and funded by Amazon, the initiative will run across the states of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The launch event in Gurugram on March 20, 2025, brought together key stakeholders including officials from Development Department, Gurugram, Reserve Bank of India, The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and Rural Development & Self Employment Training Institute (RUDSETI), who discussed opportunities and challenges in the development of entrepreneurs.

With a focus on women’s entrepreneurship, the programme aims to provide business development training and support to up to 3,000 entrepreneurs through structured mentorship programs. Additionally, the program plans to offer digital literacy training for up to 24,000 participants focusing on smartphone usage, while facilitating digital payment platform training for up to 22,000 individuals.

The program will also support the establishment of 1,200 new enterprises, with 80% expected to achieve INR 1 lakh annual revenue by their third year. It will also develop 10 model enterprises, half of which will be women-led, which are expected to generate INR 10 to 25 lakhs in annual turnover and create new employment opportunities. The programme will also aim to create opportunities for these entrepreneurs to sell offline as well as online.

Mr. Vipin Sharma, CEO, ACCESS Development Services said, "Empowering women entrepreneurs is crucial to unlocking India's economic resilience and achieving its $5 trillion aspiration. Our 'Entrepreneurship for Enablement' initiative with Amazon aims to bridge critical gaps, equipping women and youth with skills, finance, and digital tools to establish thriving businesses. Together, we can catalyze a wave of women-led enterprises, driving sustainable growth, unlocking new opportunities, and harnessing the gender dividend for a more inclusive economy."

Dr Karuna Shankar Pande, Vice President, Amazon Logistics India said, “Entrepreneurship is a key driver of economic growth, and through this initiative, we aim to equip women and young people with the resources and skills they need to build sustainable businesses. Through this initiative, we aim to augment India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, unlocking economic opportunities and empowering tens of thousands of individuals to become self-reliant by 2027. Our community impact initiatives like these are designed to empower the communities we serve in, enabling digital and financial inclusion and also ensuring long-term opportunities and benefits for them.”

The project will be implemented and scaled across 3 States (cluster of 5 to 8 villages) while maintaining a dual focus on knowledge building and enterprise development.

In Haryana, the project will focus on three clusters in the Farukhnagar and Taoru areas of Gurgaon district, specifically targeting Jamalpur, Sehsola, Binola, and Bhora Kalan. These locations have the potential for the growth of agricultural enterprises, food manufacturing units, retail businesses, handicrafts, and beauty services.

In Uttar Pradesh, the initiative will concentrate on two key clusters—Bhaukapur in Lucknow and Bajhera in Unnao, where there is significant scope for traditional handicrafts like chikankari and terracotta work, along with banking correspondent units, retail stores, garment businesses, and food service establishments.

In Maharashtra, the project will operate across three clusters in the Bhiwandi area. The focus will be on developing businesses around traditional handicrafts such as pottery and warli paintings, power loom units, food manufacturing, and service-oriented businesses such as tutoring and catering services. The geographies of the project aim to cater to diverse entrepreneurial opportunities while building on existing skills and market potential in each region.

Amazon India is committed to being a force for good in our communities. Since 2014, our community engagement has evolved to address key social needs, from education and livelihoods to health, environmental sustainability, and disaster response. Today, we focus on food and nutrition security, livelihoods, and associate welfare through structured, long-term programs. By collaborating with NGOs, local ambassadors, and community stakeholders, we strive to create lasting, meaningful impact.

10 of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam's Advices to Entrepreneurs

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, fondly known as the "Missile Man of India" and a beloved former President, has left behind a wealth of wisdom for entrepreneurs. Dr. Kalam had so much wisdom to share, and his thoughts on entrepreneurship are timeless.. Here are some key pieces of advice he shared:

1. Dream Big: "Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action." Не emphasized the importance of having a visionary mindset and setting ambitious goals.

2. Ethics: "If you salute your duty, you no need to salute anybody. But if you pollute your duty, you have to salute everybody." He believed in ethical practices and staying true to one's values.

3. Innovation: "Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower." He encouraged entrepreneurs to constantly innovate and think creatively.

4. Perseverance: "Don't be afraid of failure. Failure is the stepping stone to success." He believed in the power of perseverance and learning from mistakes.

5. Integrity: "Lead from the front. Lead by example." He stressed the importance of integrity and leading with honesty and dedication.

6. Service to Society: "What can I give to society?" He inspired entrepreneurs to focus on creating value and contributing positively to society.

7. Continuous Learning: "Learning gives creativity, creativity leads to thinking, thinking provides knowledge, and knowledge makes you great." He believed in the power of lifelong learning and continuous self-improvement.

8. Resilience: "Man needs his difficulties because they are necessary to enjoy success." He highlighted the importance of facing challenges head-on and using them as stepping stones.

9. Teamwork: "Great dreams of great dreamers are always transcended." He valued the power of teamwork and collaboration in achieving great things.

10. Empathy: "When we tackle obstacles, we find hidden reserves of courage and resilience we did not know we had." He emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding in leadership.

Dr. Kalam's advice can be a guiding light for anyone looking to make a positive impact. Dr. Kalam's life and teachings continue to inspire countless individuals around the world.

Tech Mahindra Foundation and Jamia Milia Islamia Setup SMART Academy to Offer Digital Skills Courses

Tech Mahindra Foundation, the CSR arm of Tech Mahindra Limited, and Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) have partnered to establish the SMART Academy, which will offer a range of short-term courses in digital skills and entrepreneurship. The courses include graphic design, full-stack development, UI/UX development, and digital marketing, among others.

The collaboration aims to equip students and professionals with in-demand digital skills, promote innovation, and contribute to India's digital transformation.

Registration for these courses will open on September 10 and remain active until
September 21, with classes starting in October.

The newly established SMART Academy aims to provide high-quality, industry-relevant training in digital skills and entrepreneurship. Here are some key details:

Courses Offered:

1. Graphic Design:

• Duration: 4 months
• Eligibility: Class 12

2. Full Stack Development (PHP, .NET, Java):

• Duration: 4 months
• Eligibility: Engineering Graduates

3. UI/UX Development:

• Duration: 4 months
• Eligibility: Engineering Graduates

4. Digital Marketing:

• Duration: 4 months
• Eligibility: Any Graduate

5. AWS re/Start (Cloud-Related Courses):

• Duration: 3 months
• Eligibility: Engineering Graduates

6. Digital Entrepreneurship:

• Duration: 3 months
• Eligibility: Any Student

Objectives:

Skill Development: Equip students and professionals with in-demand digital skills.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Foster innovation and entrepreneurial skills to contribute to India's digital transformation.

Employment Opportunities: Bridge the gap between industry requirements and available skills, enhancing employability.

Registration and Schedule

Registration: Opens on September 10 and closes on September 21.

Interviews: Conducted from September 23 to 25.

Results: Announced on September 27.

Classes Start: October 2024, with both morning and evening batches available.

The SMART Academy is designed to help individuals gain practical skills and knowledge that are directly applicable in the job market.

Tech Mahindra Foundation is the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Tech Mahindra Limited, established in 2006. The foundation operates with the vision of "Empowerment through Education" and focuses on three key areas: Education, Employability, and Disability.

The foundation supports various government schools to improve teaching and learning experiences. Programs like Shikshaantar and ARISE aim to enhance school governance, nurture children's learning opportunities, and provide continuous professional development for school stakeholders.

Visa and Skill India Ink 3-Year Partnership to Upskill 20,000 Youth in Tourism-relevant Skills

Visa has partnered with the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) under the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship to upskill 20,000 Indian youths in tourism-related skills.

This three-year partnership, valued at up to $1 million, aims to enhance the tourism service experience across 10 states, including Assam, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and West Bengal.

The program will focus on essential roles within the tourism industry, such as tour guides, customer service executives, naturalists, and paragliding tandem pilots.

This initiative is expected to boost employment prospects for the youth and improve the overall experience for tourists visiting India.

The Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) is a key player in India’s skill development ecosystem, operating under the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC).

Notably, India’s tourism sector is a significant contributor to the country’s economy and employment. Here are some key points about the tourism industry in India:

Tourism contributes around 5.8% to India’s GDP. The sector supports approximately 32.1 million jobs, which is about 7.3% of the total employment in the country

THSC aims to bridge the skill gap in the tourism and hospitality industry by creating a robust and sustainable ecosystem for skill development.

Besides this, Visa has been actively forming partnerships in India across various sectors. The American multinational payment card services corporation has also partnered with major Indian banks like State Bank of India and HDFC Bank to expand their merchant payments acceptance network. Additionally, Visa launched the ‘Visa in a Box’ accelerator program with ICICI Bank to support fintech startups.

Moreover, Visa is collaborating with UPI payment solution providers and digital wallets to integrate card payments with QR code-based transactions. This partnership aims to enhance the flexibility and convenience of digital payments for consumers.

UNICEF's GenU Partners Accenture Globally, Connecting 580,000 Youth to Skilling and Entrepreneurship

Expanded partnership will build on the success of Accenture’s original partnership with Generation Unlimited (GenU), which launched in 2021

UNICEF's Generation Unlimited (GenU) has announced a new phase of its global partnership with Accenture, aiming to connect 580,000 youth to skilling and earning opportunities. This four-year partnership, announced on International Youth Day 2024, builds on the success of their initial collaboration launched in 2021.

Key initiatives include:

imaGen Ventures: Connecting over 188,000 young people to entrepreneurial activities through grants, seed funding, and mentorship.

Youth Marketplace Agency (YOMA): Supporting over 300,000 marginalized youth in building skills to innovate on environmental challenges, re-enter education, find employment, or start businesses.

Passport to Earning (P2E): Providing free, certifiable, job-relevant skills to over 92,000 marginalized youth.

In this new phase of the partnership, Accenture is scaling up its support by providing US$7.8 million to drive impactful outcomes for young people in Brazil, Egypt, India, Philippines, South Africa and Türkiye.

Accenture's CEO of Growth Markets, Leo Framil, has also been appointed to GenU’s Board, further strengthening this partnership. With this appointment, Accenture will become one of GenU’s Founding Partners, a group of leaders that play an integral role in championing global skills development and mentorship.

This collaboration aims to empower young people with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving workforce.

This announcement comes as the world faces an urgent challenge: 1.8 billion young people are standing on the brink of adulthood. Yet, a staggering 60% of young people are projected to lack essential skills by 2030, putting their very prospects for dignified lives at risk. The long-term impacts of this crisis will ripple through our economies, communities, and societies, deepening inequality and locking young people out of the opportunities they need to build a better life.

President Inaugurates L&T Skill Training Hub in Her Hometown in Odisha To Upskill Tribal Youth

The Honourable President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, today inaugurated the L&T Skill Training Hub at her hometown Pahadpur, Mayurbhanj in Odisha. The historic event was also graced by Ms Meena Subrahmanyan, President of Prayas Trust - an L&T-funded non-profit organisation, along with senior officials of L&T and the Odisha-based non-profit SLS Trust. The historic event was also graced by Ms Meena Subrahmanyan, President of Prayas Trust - an L&T-funded non-profit organisation, along with senior officials of L&T and the Odisha-based non-profit SLS Trust.

L&T, in collaboration with SLS Trust, has established the Skill Training Hub across a land parcel of five acres. The state-of-the-art facility was completed in a remarkable five-month timeframe and aims at providing underprivileged youth in the region with training in construction skills, thus enabling them to become self-reliant. SLS Trust, led by its President, Ms Itishree Murmu, has been instrumental in creating opportunities for the marginalised sections of society.

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated a Skill Training Centre at Pahadpur in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha and visited SLS Memorial residential school in the same village where she interacted with the students. pic.twitter.com/jmy4PuxKQK

— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 21, 2023

Commenting on the launch of project, Ms Meena Subramanyan, President of Prayas Trust said, “This training center will enable candidates to fully focus on learning and developing their skills in an enabling environment with a strong focus on life skills and personality development. We believe that empowering the underprivileged youth through accessible skill training is not just an investment for their future but a promise of a brighter and more inclusive tomorrow.”

The project, which includes operations and maintenance, is a significant opportunity for the tribal youth in the area, connecting them with opportunities beyond their immediate surroundings.

Complementing her comment, Ms Mabel Abraham, Joint General Manager - Corporate Social Initiatives, L&T, said: “Transforming dreams into opportunities, L&T is dedicated to making a lasting impact by equipping underprivileged youth with valuable skills. Our commitment to empower these young individuals is a testament to our vision for a more promising and inclusive society.”

The Skill Training Hub is equipped with contemporary infrastructure, featuring an administrative-cum-institute building, a multipurpose hall, an e-learning hall, a digital training room, separate hostels for both boys and girls (each accommodating 120 individuals), dining facilities, practice yards for various trades, and a dedicated workshop for learning pipe welding.

Additionally, the training center is equipped with state-of-the-art simulators with AR/VR technology to enhance the learning experience.

Draper Start-up House unveils Largest Global Co-Living Co-Working Space in Hyderabad

Draper Start-up House, the international entrepreneurial ecosystem, is proud to announce the launch of its largest co-living co-working community space in Hyderabad. This monumental endeavour signifies a new era in collaborative living and working for entrepreneurs, start-ups, and digital nomads worldwide.

Shri Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary of the Industries & Commerce (I&C) and Information Technology (IT) Departments - Telangana government along with Ajit Rangnekar, Director General, RICH, Mahankali Srinivas Rao, CEO, THub, Ramesh Loganathan, Professor, CoInnovation, Ramadevi Lanka, Director, Emerging Technologies, Deepanwita Chattopadhyay, Chairman and CEO, IKP Knowledge Park, Srinivas Kollipara, Group President, Startup Ventures at XELPMOC inaugurated the new co-living co-working community space at Gachibowli. Others in attendance included Vikram Bharati, Founder of Draper start-up House, Karan Bahadur,Co- Founder of Draper Start-up House, India along with the Hyderabad team Chaitanya Kokku, Director and Vinutha Rallapalli- Chief Community Officer, Draper Start-up House – Hyderabad.250+ attendees including investors, mentors, startups, incubator heads were present for the launch.

Hyderabad has become a hub for innovators and start-up’s with over 8,000 start-up’s and 75+ incubators, Hyderabad provides a thriving environment for innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration. Incentives, tax breaks, and streamlined regulatory frameworks attract and encourage the establishment and growth of start-ups.

With a staggering capacity of 108 beds, this new innovative space sets a precedent in the realm of co-living co-working spaces, solidifying Draper Start-up House as a pioneer in the global entrepreneurial landscape.

"Hyderabad’s burgeoning start-up ecosystem has captivated our attention, and we are thrilled to plant our roots in this vibrant city," stated Vikram Bharati, Founder of Draper start-up House. "Our vision is to create a haven where entrepreneurs can thrive, collaborate, and innovate together, shaping the future of business globally” he added.

Designed to foster innovation and community building, the launch of this co-living & co-working space in Hyderabad marks a significant milestone in Draper start up House's mission to empower entrepreneurs worldwide. Premier institutions like IIT-Hyderabad, IIIT-H, and ISB, along with organisations like RICH, TASK, TSIC, and T-Works, contribute to a diverse talent pool and foster innovation through partnerships and knowledge exchange.

"We believe in providing not just physical spaces but a comprehensive ecosystem that nurtures start-ups from ideation to global expansion," shared Karan Bahadur, Founder of Draper Start-up House. "This launch represents our commitment to supporting entrepreneurial endeavours, driving progress, and creating a dynamic global network of successful start-up’s."

"Fuelling innovation, fostering connections, and celebrating diversity – our co-working co-living space in Hyderabad is where collaboration meets creativity, and dreams find a home. Elevate your productivity in a community that inspires success." said Vinutha Naga Rallapali- Chief Community Officer, Draper Start-up House - Hyderabad.

Looking ahead, Draper start-up House is poised to expand globally, establishing co-living and co-working spaces in over 100 countries by 2030. Additionally, collaborations with global organizations and industry leaders aim to create an international Chamber of Commerce for start-up’s, furthering the support and opportunities available to entrepreneurial ventures.

This launch cements Draper start-up House's commitment to fostering a dynamic ecosystem where start-up’s find not only physical spaces but also educational services, venture capital, and technology support essential for their journey.

About Draper Startup House: Draper Startup House is an international entrepreneurial ecosystem that provides an exceptional opportunity for startup founders to connect, learn, and grow their businesses. With a network of locations in 20 countries, our mission is to expand to 100 countries by 2030 and create one million new businesses worldwide through our global business ecosystem. Their community welcomes digital nomads, remote workers, and startup founders from all corners of the world. The startups can immediately connect with a diverse pool of global angel investors, syndicates, VCs, and other startup investors, including the Draper Startup House Ventures Fund. They believe that the community is a unique blend of local hospitality for entrepreneurs and a global resource for successful startups, and they are committed to assisting you to GO BIG, pay it forward, and drive progress together.

Narayana Murthy and T.V. Mohandas Pai Discuss India’s Growth Story, Corporate Governance & Entrepreneurship in 3one4 Capital’s New Video Series ‘The Record’

The inaugural episodes of the video series, in association with Catamaran, aim to inspire change through ideas and life journeys of India’s veteran industry leaders

3one4 Capital, Bengaluru-based early-stage venture capital firm, announces the official launch of 'The Record,' its latest video series. This insightful series is positioned to provide exceptional insights into the spheres of entrepreneurship and leadership. Notably, the inaugural episodes of 'The Record,' in collaboration with Catamaran, feature Narayana Murthy and T.V. Mohandas Pai, underscoring the series' significance within the corporate landscape, offering a platform for inspiring dialogues and meaningful ideas.

'The Record' by 3one4 Capital aims to highlight the transformational journeys of India's industry leaders and to explore the strategies through which they navigated challenges on their paths to large outcomes. This series offers a distinctive opportunity for audiences to immerse themselves in the fundamental elements of thriving entrepreneurship in India, the dynamics of effective leadership, the complexities of corporate governance, principles for positive-sum market expansion, the forces guiding India's growth trajectory, and much more.

The collaboration with Catamaran, the esteemed family office of Narayana Murthy, adds a significant dimension to the inaugural episodes of 'The Record.' Catamaran is widely known in the industry and has played a pivotal role in fostering successful ventures. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both organizations to empower the entrepreneurial and leadership ecosystem in India.

Commenting at the launch of The Record, Narayana Murthy said, “Catamaran is happy to partner with 3one4 Capital on this inaugural episode. History has a lot to teach us, and candid dialogue on platforms like this will help reveal the intricate journey of entrepreneurship and leadership.”

T.V. Mohandas Pai said, “The Record is an intentional initiative by 3one4 Capital to support a dialogue on governance, startup growth, managing the path to building large institutions, and many other matters related to the transformational journey of entrepreneurship. The inaugural episodes of The Record with Narayana Murthy on corporate governance, building a constructive board, building great teams, and ensuring that corporates are run with the highest standards of governance and ethics will go a long way in helping entrepreneurs across the ecosystem. What Narayana Murthy brings to the dialogue is very rich experience and standard setting, steps that he's taken in building a legacy at Infosys. It's important for us to learn from the best entrepreneurs India has produced over time, and I look forward to more such dialogues soon.”

Pranav Pai, the Founding Partner of 3one4 Capital, introduced the launch of 'The Record, "We have designed ‘The Record’ to support young Indians and the wider startup and corporate ecosystem in their search for focused insights from industry leaders who have successfully built some of India's most distinguished enterprises. We aspire for this video series to serve as a compass for the country's entrepreneurs and operators as they build towards sustainable and inclusive technological and socio-economic advancement."

As 'The Record' continues its episodic releases, 3one4 Capital remains committed to hosting similar conversations with a diverse group of industry leaders from across the nation. These discussions will delve into their unique journeys, sharing experiences, challenges, and achievements as valuable learning opportunities. Each upcoming episode will grant access to the strategic frameworks and transformative ideas that have driven these individuals to success. The collaboration with Catamaran in the inaugural episodes reflects 3one4 Capital's dedication to offering viewers an exceptional opportunity to tap into the collective wisdom of these industry experts in the future.

The first episode was released on October 26, 2023, on 3one4 Capital and Catamaran's website and social channels.

Teaser 

Episode 1

About 3one4 Capital

3one4 Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Bangalore, India.

The firm works in select market categories and in the intersection of adjacencies that are large, growing, and ready for unique products and services. The themes pursued are SaaS, Enterprise & SMB Digitization, Fintech, Consumer Internet, and Digital Health, with a focus on areas such as machine-driven actionable intelligence services, climate tech, ambient intelligence technologies, logistics and distribution, IP-led deep tech, and full stack engineering solutions.

3one4’s investments are biased towards companies exploiting technology to create, grow, or dominate large markets in India. The firm also invests a portion of its capital in global-GTM companies that have feedforward effects into the themes being pursued in India. With a focus on margins and on delivering uncompromised end-user experiences, the firm aims to detect new growth opportunities, manage risk, and return rewarding outcomes to all the stakeholders involved.

3one4 Capital has specialized in utilizing its deep access to strategic corporations and investors in building grounds-up theses that preempt the mainstream while exploiting macro trends. The firm has developed a proprietary sourcing engine to discover the next set of generational companies from the early stage. Once invested, the firm works through a deep involvement strategy with founding teams and subject-matter experts to prioritize and strategize for product-market fit, and then optimize for defensibility and growth in revenue and impact. The firm’s in-house Governance & Business Integrity, Growth & Capital Development, Finance, Research, and Platform teams act as strategic partners to the founders over multiple vectors to amplify the execution, growth, and reach of the portfolio companies.

At 3one4, the team has intentionally built a long-term commitment to responsible investing and to support the evolution of an ecosystem conducive to RI. This active commitment has helped the firm secure the signatory status to the UN PRI, making 3one4 Capital the first Venture Capital signatory from India and the fifth overall asset management firm approved from the country.

3one4 Capital has been ranked by Preqin, a global reference database for asset management, as India’s top performer for two of its funds in its Alternative Assets report. The seed and early-stage funds managed by the firm have been recognized for their performance amongst the India-focused venture capital funds in this Asia Pacific-focused report published in 2021. With industry-leading Net IRRs, 3one4 Capital’s Rising I & Fund II are the top two amongst the best performing India-focused VC funds between the vintage years, 2010-2018.

The firm manages INR 4,100 Cr (USD 510M) of committed capital and a combined portfolio of over 100 investments.

About Catamaran

Catamaran is the family office of Narayana Murthy and is a catalyst for creating innovative enterprises in India. It manages over $1 billion across asset classes. It invests in innovative ideas from passionate and value-based entrepreneurs to help them build successful enterprises. The company partners with respected global corporations to create enduring enterprises in India. Catamaran invests in listed companies catering to large markets, with high standards of corporate governance and the ability to stay resilient across economic cycles.

STPI Sets Up State-of-The-Art Incubation Facility in Gurugram To Promote Entrepreneurship in Blockchain Technology

Mr. S. Krishnan, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology Secretary inaugerating APIARY COE Incubation Facility

The facility was inaugurated by Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology Secretary Shri S. Krishnan

Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) has marked a significant milestone as the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) Secretary Shri S. Krishnan inaugurated a state-of-the-art incubation facility of the Apiary Center of Entrepreneurship (CoE) at STPI-Gurugram. This momentous occasion was attended by Shri Sushil Pal, Joint Secretary, MeitY; Shri Pankaj Thakar, Chief Mentor, Shri Arvind Kumar, Director General, STPI; Shri Devesh Tyagi, Senior Director, STPI and Dr. Rajneesh Agrawal, Director, STPI-Gurugram.

Apiary is one of the CoEs of STPI which is focused on Blockchain Technology and is set up in collaboration with MeitY, STPI, Govt. of Haryana, Padup Ventures, IBM, Intel, GBA, and FITT. This CoE is a first-of-its-kind initiative to identify and support promising startups and promote entrepreneurship in the field of Blockchain Technology. It has a fully furnished incubation infrastructure of 7,000 sq. ft. equipped with 80 plug-n-play seats, conference rooms, and an auditorium. It targets to incubate an overall 100 startups in a period of 5 years.

 

During the inauguration, Shri S. Krishnan took a walk-through of the Apiary incubation facility and interacted with the young entrepreneurs.

“Meeting the young entrepreneurs was quite an enriching experience. The way these entrepreneurs have addressed real-world problems using cutting-edge technology is really commendable. These entrepreneurs aren’t confined to national boundaries and this quality distinguishes them from others. In the last three decades, the way we have used technology is the key benchmark for our country’s exponential growth,” said Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY.

Shri Sushil Pal, Joint Secretary, MeitY, said, “Blockchain technology can be sustainable for our economy. It can be used right from supply chain to waste management. It has the potential to become an enabler in sustainable growth.”

Shri Arvind Kumar, Director General, STPI said, “Apiary CoE's incubation facility will bring a new revolution in the technology sector. Blockchain technology has a lot of potential and is considered to be the biggest invention since the internet. This incubation facility at Apiary CoE is a stepping stone towards India’s digital transformation.”

The inauguration was preceded by a conference on Sustainable Development Goals Thru Web 3.0, under which two sessions “Sustainable Development Goals With Web 3.0: Challenges and Opportunities” and “Business Transformation with Web 3.0” were organised. The speakers Shri Pankaj Thakar, Chief Mentor Apiary CoE & Founder PadUp Ventures; Shri Subodh Sachan, Director (Startup & Innovation); STPI Shri Amit Jindal, Mentor Apiary CoE & President Government Blockchain Association (NCR); Smt Anshu Bhartia, Ex-CEO UnLtd India Social Incubator and Shri Avneesh Saksena Management Consultant, Mentor and CEO & Executive Coach shared insights with young entrepreneurs in the audience.

About STPI Apiary COE

Apiary has been set up at STPI, Gurugram to offer a substantial opportunity to innovative start-ups working in this technology to address issues that necessitate the usage of Blockchain for the establishment of trust in a decentralized manner and other purposes. Apiary CoE provides comprehensive support to startups (in the form of a dedicated Blockchain platform, access to Technocrats, mentorship, mentoring programs, VC funding, etc., and collaboration with all ecosystem players) with the ultimate objective of making India a world leader in technology space and creating a pipeline of future jobs-creating businesses.

IIM Sambalpur Receives $2 Mn Funding for Startup Incubation Center on Its 9th Foundation Day

Also Inks Pact with India Accelerator to Promote Entrepreneurship Ecosystem

IIM Sambalpur celebrated its 9th Foundation Day with the Theme: “Accelerating Startup’s Ecosystems”. Mr. Sushant Kumar, ESKYEN Ventures committed fund of 2 million USD to Incubation Centre of IIM Sambalpur to promote start-ups and entrepreneurship. Also an MoU signed between IIM Sambalpur & India Accelerator to build entrepreneurial capacity for the incubates of IIM Sambalpur.

The program was address by Shri. Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon’ble Minister of Education, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, GoI as the Chief Guest.

During the event, the Chief Guest, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Education Minister of the Government of India, congratulated IIM Sambalpur on its Ninth Foundation Day through a video message. He praised the alliances and partnerships that IIM Sambalpur has formed with businesses like India Accelerator, SIDBI, and Flipkart, highlighting their importance in fostering entrepreneurs and assisting the livelihoods of local weavers and craftsmen. In his inspirational speech, he urged the students to use innovation, inclusivity, and integrity - the three pillars of IIM Sambalpur - as their compass points in all their activities. He acknowledged that IIM Sambalpur had given them the knowledge and abilities necessary for professional success and urged them to constantly remember their greater purpose, strive for excellence, give back to society, and uphold the values that will cause India to become a developed country by 2047.

The Guest of Honour, Mr. Sushant Kumar, Founder & Principal of ESKEYN Ventures & Indus Capital, USA, underscored the vital role of confidence in early investors like Ram Shriram, who was the first investor in Google and supported Larry Page and Sergey Brin, even during the company's unprofitable years. He shed light on the enormous obstacles that companies must overcome by empathizing with the primary worries that frequently plague them, such as fundraising, loan repayments, and job stability. Additionally, Mr. Kumar revealed major funding for an incubation center at IIM Sambalpur totaling $2 million. He commended the dynamic leadership of Professor Jaiswal and his team, assuring that the project's implementation would commence shortly.

The Keynote Speaker, Mr Hiranmaya Mahanta, CEO, i-HUB Gujarat shared a story of Stanford University's innovative spirit. Stanford got $50,000 from the U.S. State Department's innovation fund when it was established in 1939, but their strategy for fostering innovation made them a force to be reckoned with. In a similar vein, he believed that IIM Sambalpur might take the lead in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation thanks to Dr. Jaiswal's inspirational leadership. The institute, like Stanford University, has a fantastic opportunity to influence the future.

Additionally, he encouraged students to adopt an innovative mindset, take prudent chances, and not be afraid to ask questions.

In the welcome address, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, of IIM Sambalpur stated, "Established on September 23, 2015, within its 8-year journey IIM Sambalpur has carved a niche among the top IIMs. The vision of IIM Sambalpur is to nurture responsible leaders with an entrepreneurial mindset and core values centered around innovation, inclusiveness, and integrity. We are also privileged that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the institute on January 2, 2021. Some achievements in these 8 years include: In 2019, we created history in top B-schools; in 2019, IIM Sambalpur achieved 50 per cent gender diversity, a milestone followed by all IIMs."

He also spoke about the trend in increasing the percentage of non-engineering students in the MBA batch in which IIM Sambalpur emerged as a leader in the country. The director further informed about the three unique projects namely BunkarValleys.com to promote master weavers and artisans, MineralValleys.com to study the value that mines and minerals are creating for the people of Odisha and DigitalValue.com to promote digital leadership in the country and upcoming MoUs.”

Mr Hiranmaya Mahanta, CEO, i-HUB Gujarat graced the event as the Guest of Honour. On the occasion, Mr Arindam Mukhopadhyay, Partner, India Accelerator; Mr. Deepak Sharma, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, India Accelerator and Mr. Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, Founder and CEO, IG Drones were also present.

On the occasion, the key achievers in different fields were felicitated by the dignitaries. Mr. Amrut Mohanty, CAO I/C gave the vote of thanks. The event concluded with a roundtable discussion on the topic 'Accelerating Startup’s Ecosystems.