Treat Start-Ups as a “Marathon, Not a 100-Metre Dash”: Infosys Founder NR Narayana Murthy to Budding Entrepreneurs

With the start-up culture currently booming in the country, Infosys co-founder NR Narayana Murthy advised aspiring entrepreneurs to prioritize perseverance and long-term thinking to achieve success in their new ventures. Sharing from his experience, the tech czar, who built an empire worth more than 5 lakh crores INR, recommends viewing start-ups as a "marathon" rather than a "100-metre dash."

Opining the challenges witnessed in the Indian start-up ecosystem in recent years, Murthy in conversation with TV9 Network Managing Director & CEO Barun Das points out that several factors have contributed to the decline. One of them being the absence of a world-class market research company in India.

He underlined that, “We do not have a world-class market research company in India. If we had such a company, then entrepreneurs could get the correct market size estimate.” He added that, “Unfortunately, in the absence of determining the correct size of the market, youngsters and venture capitalists tend to overestimate it.”

Regarding the issue of massive layoffs in IT industry in the wake of the global economic slowdown, Murthy expressed confidence in Indian businesses to protect themselves.

Referring to Indian companies as a “good value for money in software services,” he asserts, “My belief is when there is a downturn in the US, generally, if we are hardworking, disciplined, innovative…, we will have good opportunities.”

Murthy, who appeared on the TV9 show ‘Duologue With Barun Das’ with his wife Sudha Murthy, a renowned author and chairperson of Infosys Foundation, shared his insights on several topics including India’s start-up landscape, layoffs and opportunities IT industry.

Recalling his early days in Infosys, he even shared several business lessons for building a successful and a thriving venture.

5 Tips for Startups to Overcome the Funding Crunch

Starting a business can be a daunting task, but raising funds to keep it going is definitely more challenging. Many startups face difficulties in obtaining the funds they need to bring their vision to life. However, there are several strategies that startups can implement to overcome the funding crunch and make their dreams a reality. Here are five tips to help startups secure the funding they need:

Create a clear and compelling business plan:

A business plan is an essential document that outlines your startup's vision, mission, goals, target market, competition, revenue streams, and financial projections. It's the first step in securing funding for your startup, and investors want to see a well-thought-out plan that demonstrates how you'll use their money to generate profits. Your business plan should be persuasive, realistic, specific, and address potential risks and concerns.

Network with investors and mentors:

Networking is critical to securing funding for your startup. Attend industry events, conferences, and seminars to connect with investors and other entrepreneurs. Seek out mentors who can provide guidance, advice, and connections. These mentors may be experienced entrepreneurs, industry experts, or investors who have experience in your field. Networking can help you build relationships with potential investors and mentors, which can lead to funding opportunities.

Explore alternative funding sources: While traditional sources of funding, such as venture capital firms and angel investors, are well-known options for startups, they're not the only sources of funding. Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo can be effective in raising money from a large number of small investors. Grants are also a good option for startups, particularly those working on innovative projects or in specific fields. Incubator programs offer startups access to resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities.

Build a strong team:

Investors are interested not only in your idea but also in the team behind it. Building a strong team of talented and experienced professionals can make your startup more attractive to investors. Your team should include individuals with a variety of skills and expertise, including marketing, finance, operations, and technology. A strong team can also help you overcome potential obstacles and challenges and make your startup more successful in the long run.

Be persistent and adaptable:

Securing funding for your startup is not easy and requires persistence and adaptability. You may face several rejections before finding the right investor or funding source. You may also need to adapt your business plan or strategy based on feedback from investors or changes in the market. It's important to stay flexible and open to feedback while being persistent in pursuing your goals.

Subhashis Kar, Founder & CEO, Techbooze, a startup funding consultancy, stated, “For startups, securing funding is a major hurdle, but there are effective strategies to overcome it. A clear and compelling business plan can attract potential investors, while networking with investors and mentors can provide valuable insights and connections. Exploring alternative funding sources, such as crowdfunding and grants, can offer more options. Building a strong team with diverse skills and expertise can make a startup more attractive to investors. Being persistent and adaptable in pursuing funding is also crucial. By implementing these strategies, startups can overcome the funding crunch and achieve their goals, laying the groundwork for future growth and success.”

SYPWAI’s Success Starts with the Most Important Thing -- Understanding the Value of People

What is the secret of SYPWAI’s success?

Artificial intelligence needs large amounts of information. Computers must have access to the necessary information, and based on data enumeration, make decisions on their own. Natural language processing and deep learning are the basis of such technologies. It is thanks to the presence of such technologies that we have a real opportunity to train machines in various patterns for them to perform tasks and process the incoming data.

AI development trends

Before the release, all projects related to the development of artificial intelligence must go through several stages: from a Pre-Alpha stage to a final launch, which is a long process. The complexity and multistep work leads to the fact that business and users see only the best of such projects. One of them is a relatively young startup called SYPWAI (sypwai.com).

This platform has managed to pass beta testing, and now it is at the Release candidate stage. This means that the platform is already at the public testing stage. Right now, the users from different countries can take part in its training.

SYPWAI is one of the best representatives of the rapidly growing high-quality intelligent platforms. It is being improved every day.

People are the secret to success!

According to the project managers, people are the key to the platform’s success. After all, they assist developers and receive a financial reward. So, everyone wins. The company gets the desired result, and people earn income.

It is worth noting that ordinary people, who act as independent judges, cooperate with the company. It is with their help that the platform has the opportunity to develop and gain momentum every day, since more and more people become interested in it.

SYPWAI applies innovative approaches to solving various problems. AI experts and famous scientists agree that SYPWAI is the startup of the future. Although the platform has been functioning for a short period of time, during this time the company has already managed to show a decent result. The company often receives requests to upgrade various devices. Artificial intelligence is integrated into products optimizing them and bringing the customer’s company to a new level.

Solving customer problems is another success factor

An active development of the SYPWAI project often confuses the competitors. SYPWAI fills all business niches. “Solve your problem with AI” – this is the slogan of the company. This explains its rapid growth and superiority over other companies. The company follows its goal no matter what. After all, what is the main task of any business? Solving client’s problem as quickly and efficiently as possible. That is the main principle of SYPWAI.

Thanks to the constant automatization of a big data flow, the system is being improved. The development speed is constantly increasing. The startup promises that artificial intelligence will appear in every area of human life quite soon, and given the fast pace of development of SYPWAI, there is no doubt about it.

Canada Presents Stable & Affordable Option to Scale Business in the West

As the immigration landscape continues to darken in the United States, Canada has taken advantage of these policies to attract skilled entrepreneurs and companies.

The acceptance of the H1B visa in the United States has continued to fall. 3 years ago, these numbers were above 90% for the right candidates. Today, the figures are closer to 50%. Companies will spend an immense amount of money trying to navigate the process in the United States and they will fail. Additionally, the largest resource will be the time they invest into the process.

The founder of a company may have a chance at getting into the states, but they will have tremendous issues bringing over other members of the team. Canada provides a stable solution for a corporation to grow out their western presence. Canada is within an hours flight of the US and on the same time zones. Additionally, Canada is the birthplace of AI. Ai is a foundation in the Canadian educational curriculum. You will have the most prepared talent available to solve the problems of tomorrow.

Additionally, employees in Canada cost over 10% less than they do for the same exact positions in the states. Your talent in Canada will be more prepared and more qualified. Finally, Canada offers some of the most generous tax incentives in the world for companies solving challenging problems.

Canadian Subsidiary Services was launched in 2019. The founding member Zak, was the first employee and VP of Sales at a series A startup in New York which raised over $15MM in financing. Zak saw the complex challenges of scaling an operation in the US when the development team is based overseas. Through the unique lens of understanding the needs of high growth startups, Zak founded Canadian Subsidiary Service as a one stop solution for international companies looking to scale in the west.

On the team there is an immigration attorney, US & Canadian tax and cross border attorney, corporate attorney, accountants, relocation specialists and government consultants. Canadian Subsidiary Services is your one stop solution to Immigrate, Incorporate & Relocate to Canada.

Interested in western exposure? Setup a call with Zak and the team today to see if they can help.



DISCLAIMER - www.indianweb2.com is Promotional Partner of Canadian Subsidiary Services (CSS)

Easy Guide to Availing Pre-Approved Business Loans From Bajaj Finserv

For many small businesses that are eager to take their business forward and expand, availing business loans serve an important milestone that helps them fuel their growth. Whether it is to upgrade their existing infrastructure, expand to different business verticals or to simply support one’s business finances in the times when liquidity is affected, business loans serve as an apt financing option for one to consider.

Before applying for a Business Loan, it is extremely important to finalize on an appropriate lender and be prepared in terms of documentation, solid business plan to support the request of loan, calculation of the loan amount to be applied and other financial information. While availing business loan might seem like a tedious task, Bajaj Finserv, the lending arm of Bajaj Finance makes availing a business loan a hassle-free experience for its customers.

Bajaj Finserv offers quick, easy and pre-approved business loans that can be customized to suit the financial needs of their customers. The pre-approved business loan offers by Bajaj Finserv ensure that small businesses fast tracks into its next phase of growth.

Some of the key advantages of availing a Pre-Approved Business loan by Bajaj Finserv are:

• As per their eligibility, customers can avail a loan amount that can be utilized as and when required. There is an option where the customer pays only the interest as EMI on the amount utilized and repay the principal amount at the end of the tenor.

• Pre-approved business loans by Bajaj Finserv come at attractive interest rates. The interest rates are low and are coupled with flexible repayment options to suit the need of each individual customer.

• One can avail pre-approved business loan offers with minimal documentation.

• The pre-approved business loan amount of up to Rs. 30 lakhs can be availed by the applicant that will ensure to support the growth of his / her business operations, inventory, working capital, and other business-related requirements.

• The borrower has an easy anytime and anywhere access to their business loan statement via the option of their online account. This feature ensures convenience and optimum utilization of the customer’s time.

The eligibility criteria to avail the pre-approved business loan offers by Bajaj Finserv are simple and customer friendly as well.

Your easy guide to know your eligibility is:

Customers ranging from various business segments like Self Employed Professionals, Self Employed Non-Professionals and Registered business entities are eligible to apply for the Bajaj Fiserv’s business loan offer.

• The applicant should be from the age group range of 25 years to 55 years old.



• The business should be a minimum of three years old



• The business should have its Income Tax returns filed for at least of the past one year.




• The minimal documentation requisites are:
  
  
  
  
  
  • KYC Documents
  
  
  • Business Registration Certificate or other eligible proof of business existence
  
  
  • Relevant financial documents
  
  
  • Bank Account statement of the previous month
  
  
  • Passport size photographs of the applicant
  
  
  
  
  

~ Published unedited via Business Wire India feed

Mistakes to Avoid When Promoting a Facebook Page for Your Startup

Of the top social media platforms, Facebook seems to have connection with many marketers out there. If you are starting out, you want to know the magical recipe that will turn your small business Facebook page into an overnight success. Unfortunately, there’s no such formula. To succeed from the onset, you need to know the mistakes you should avoid in your quest to make your Facebook page work for your startup. If you know the kind of mistakes to avoid and when to refurbish your strategy, you will go on to create a page that will work for you and your brand.

Avoid the Generic Approach

Facebook will give you the exposure you so need to remain visible. However, broadcasting your business haphazardly may not end up well. As a startup, you need to concentrate on the things that matter. The best approach to start with is to build a fan base and enjoining your startup to a community. Many small business owners will rush head on to check their Facebook share link or to broadcast their business to a vague audience.

It’s good to note that Facebook will work well if you are genuine. Your target customers will associate with your brand because you took time to tell them who you are. If you take time to join a community and support their interests, they are likely to respond positively. Blasting your products on social media to followers who barely know you can end up in vain. If your prospects realize that you are doing your best to cater and fulfill their needs, they will repay with all the attention you need.

Don’t Display Inconsistent Company Culture

In the rush to leverage the power of Facebook, many startups forget that they need to keep their image relevant to the business goals and mission. Many people in the startup phase will forget to align their appearance on their page with the vision of their venture. Your Facebook page is part of your company and it needs to show the same “personality” as your company at large.

You need to show your audience that you are who you say you are when interacting with them. This doesn’t mean you cannot be casual in some pages, but you shouldn’t forget the core mission and the image you want to cut. If your prospects feel you are a bit too carefree about your venture, they might not feel convinced to interact with you.

Avoid the Comfort Zone

Whereas Facebook comes with immense growth potential for your startup, you need to stop sitting on your laurels. This is one of the most competitive platforms and you cannot afford to stay in your comfort zone. Don’t stay stuck with one type of content. You cannot beat your competitors, if your strategies are on auto pilot mode. There are new Facebook trends cropping up now and then. You cannot afford to be left behind. If you are not ambitious with new trends, you risk losing out to a competitor who is trying out every new tactics to draw traffic to the site.

Never Write Off Facebook Ads

Whereas your Facebook content will go viral and boost your organic reach, you cannot afford to write off Facebook ads. Startups have a tendency to steer clear when it comes to paying for Facebook promotion. A good number will create a page and advertise free. What you need to know is that such a reach can only go so far. You are likely to get to the limited number that was searching for your brand on Facebook

By paying for a Facebook ad, you will expand your reach with Facebook ads. The platform has a pay to platform that lets you get to more prospects and establish yourself on a new pedestal. With the paid option, it’s easy to narrow down to your targets based on their lifestyle, interests and purchasing habits.

Some startups have in the past managed to break past the noise by opting for Facebook ads. It’s possible even if you have a tight budget. The biggest mistake you will make is to think that your regular Facebook page will work. You need to try out ads and see what they can do for your marketing endeavor.

Kick Out the Unapproachable Attitude

Your target audience loves to interact with brands on a personal level. Everybody loves approval, the chance to express opinions and respective reaffirmations. When you create your Facebook page, don’t push off your customers assuming they will convert magically. You need to respond to their pains and offer value. If you incentivize with contests and give away, the better.

You need to avoid the mistake of keeping aloof and instead provide them with opportunities to talk to you. Personal interactions will lead to trust and customer loyalty. Remember, you need to be ambitious when it comes to testing Facebook ads. You want to be sure that you are blowing money on an ad that will have a positive impact.

Advice For Finding Initial Funding Your New Startup Business Venture

Pretty much everyone has thought about starting their own business at some point. Unfortunately, starting and running a business will prove to be incredibly difficult. In fact, it takes a lot of patience and intelligence to get the job done right. It is also true that it takes money to make money. After all, you’re going to need funding to pay employees, market your business, and manufacture your products. So, how can you go about funding your next startup business? You’ll find tips for doing just that below.

Speak With Relatives

First and foremost, you should try to avoid falling into debt. Therefore, it might not be a good idea to take out a loan for your business. Instead, you should find lending options with fewer obligations. Speak with your relatives. If you have someone with a little bit of money, they may be interested in investing in your business. If they do, you’ll most likely be able to avoid those steep interest rates. Just do your best to repay your relative or you might harm your relationship.

Getting A Bank Loan

If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to get a loan from your bank. In order to do so, you’re going to need to have a good personal credit score. This article outlines how to remove a charge off from your credit report. Take steps to improve your credit score, before applying for a loan. You’ll also need a business plan and statement. It is also a good idea to have a savings or checking account with the bank in question. Cross your fingers and they may very well provide you with the money that you need. Just avoid missing any payments or you’ll regret it.

Recruit Investors

There are plenty of investors out there that want to invest in private companies. Private equity firms do so as well. If you’ve got a great idea and a good business plan, there is a good chance that you’ll be able to convince these individuals to invest in your company. The only downside is that you might have to give up some control of your business. Plus, you may be pressured to take your business public at some point in the future. Nevertheless, investors can help you get the money that you need, so they should not be ignored.

Crowd funding

Crowd funding is fairly new, but it has proven to be effective for many purposes. It is also a great way to collect money for your business. If you’re trying to get your business off of the ground, crowd funding can help in several ways. Obviously, it will help you get the funding that you need. At the same time, crowd funding can help you spread the word about your business. Finally, you should know that crowd funding comes with little obligation. You can offer your donors gifts and products for investing in your business.

Otherwise, you do not have to give up stake in your business. You’ll remain in complete control. With that being said, crowd funding is definitely a good option.

Advice For Finding Initial Funding Your New Startup Business Venture

Pretty much everyone has thought about starting their own business at some point. Unfortunately, starting and running a business will prove to be incredibly difficult. In fact, it takes a lot of patience and intelligence to get the job done right. It is also true that it takes money to make money. After all, you’re going to need funding to pay employees, market your business, and manufacture your products. So, how can you go about funding your next startup business? You’ll find tips for doing just that below.

Speak With Relatives

First and foremost, you should try to avoid falling into debt. Therefore, it might not be a good idea to take out a loan for your business. Instead, you should find lending options with fewer obligations. Speak with your relatives. If you have someone with a little bit of money, they may be interested in investing in your business. If they do, you’ll most likely be able to avoid those steep interest rates. Just do your best to repay your relative or you might harm your relationship.

Getting A Bank Loan

If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to get a loan from your bank. In order to do so, you’re going to need to have a good personal credit score. This article outlines how to remove a charge off from your credit report. Take steps to improve your credit score, before applying for a loan. You’ll also need a business plan and statement. It is also a good idea to have a savings or checking account with the bank in question. Cross your fingers and they may very well provide you with the money that you need. Just avoid missing any payments or you’ll regret it.

Recruit Investors

There are plenty of investors out there that want to invest in private companies. Private equity firms do so as well. If you’ve got a great idea and a good business plan, there is a good chance that you’ll be able to convince these individuals to invest in your company. The only downside is that you might have to give up some control of your business. Plus, you may be pressured to take your business public at some point in the future. Nevertheless, investors can help you get the money that you need, so they should not be ignored.

Crowd funding

Crowd funding is fairly new, but it has proven to be effective for many purposes. It is also a great way to collect money for your business. If you’re trying to get your business off of the ground, crowd funding can help in several ways. Obviously, it will help you get the funding that you need. At the same time, crowd funding can help you spread the word about your business. Finally, you should know that crowd funding comes with little obligation. You can offer your donors gifts and products for investing in your business.

Otherwise, you do not have to give up stake in your business. You’ll remain in complete control. With that being said, crowd funding is definitely a good option.

What To Do When Your Competitor Gets Funded?

When there are many fishes in the sea vying for the same thing, there's bound to be competition. It depends on you as a person on how you decide to tackle that competition. Whether you decide to take the competition as a positive or as a negative thing. It all totally depends on you.

And, when it comes to the startup world, the competition is fiercer than ever. Every now and then, we read news about an XYZ startup getting a funding of ABC amount from this and that investor. Such news pieces often leaves an entrepreneur wondering about where exactly is the future of his own startup headed to.

According to some market analysts, competition is good. Even if your competition gets funded an XYZ amount, don't get bogged down by this. In fact, take this as a positive sign of validation of your market sector. It helps in educating the people about why that particular sector is a promising one and ripe for disruption.

There are many live examples in the market where startups and entrepreneurs have been self-destructive by paying an unhealthy attention on their competitors and their leads and totally ignoring one's own customer and market opportunity. Always remember, your startup's competitors are the incumbent. Further, a Healthy competition is bound to keep you on your toes and deliver the best to the customer.

Sometimes, after seeing their competitors rise, companies and company owners end up making the following rookie mistakes. Make sure you don't repeat any.

• Don't try to copy each and every product release of your competitor



• Launching artificially in markets to compete on perceived "land grabs"



• Bad mouthing the competition in public



• Focussing more on the competition rather than on the customer

So, in the end, the question is, what should one do or how should one react when one of its competitors nets a big amount? Well, while there are no set guidelines or rules on how to react, following are some advices that one might consider.

• Focus on your own business, your own market and your own customers



• Reassure your company's employees that it’s healthy to have competitors.



• Reach out to your own investors and reassure them that you still feel good about your market positioning and your product.



• Start fixing your company's shortcomings, if there are any.



• Don't treat it as an emergency and rush into things that you might later repent.

So, Instead of taking your competitors success as a sign of your failure, take it as a positive sign for your market sector and remain optimistic that you might be next in line to receive that huge amount.

What To Do When Your Competitor Gets Funded?

When there are many fishes in the sea vying for the same thing, there's bound to be competition. It depends on you as a person on how you decide to tackle that competition. Whether you decide to take the competition as a positive or as a negative thing. It all totally depends on you.

And, when it comes to the startup world, the competition is fiercer than ever. Every now and then, we read news about an XYZ startup getting a funding of ABC amount from this and that investor. Such news pieces often leaves an entrepreneur wondering about where exactly is the future of his own startup headed to.

According to some market analysts, competition is good. Even if your competition gets funded an XYZ amount, don't get bogged down by this. In fact, take this as a positive sign of validation of your market sector. It helps in educating the people about why that particular sector is a promising one and ripe for disruption.

There are many live examples in the market where startups and entrepreneurs have been self-destructive by paying an unhealthy attention on their competitors and their leads and totally ignoring one's own customer and market opportunity. Always remember, your startup's competitors are the incumbent. Further, a Healthy competition is bound to keep you on your toes and deliver the best to the customer.

Sometimes, after seeing their competitors rise, companies and company owners end up making the following rookie mistakes. Make sure you don't repeat any.

• Don't try to copy each and every product release of your competitor



• Launching artificially in markets to compete on perceived "land grabs"



• Bad mouthing the competition in public



• Focussing more on the competition rather than on the customer

So, in the end, the question is, what should one do or how should one react when one of its competitors nets a big amount? Well, while there are no set guidelines or rules on how to react, following are some advices that one might consider.

• Focus on your own business, your own market and your own customers



• Reassure your company's employees that it’s healthy to have competitors.



• Reach out to your own investors and reassure them that you still feel good about your market positioning and your product.



• Start fixing your company's shortcomings, if there are any.



• Don't treat it as an emergency and rush into things that you might later repent.

So, Instead of taking your competitors success as a sign of your failure, take it as a positive sign for your market sector and remain optimistic that you might be next in line to receive that huge amount.

India To Have Its First International Arbitration Centre In Mumbai

India's business capital Mumbai is planning to have its own international arbitration centre to resolve business conflicts instead of going courts and save time and money.

Arbitration is a process whereby the parties to the dispute appoint a third impartial person, called an arbitrator, before whom they present their claims and settle the dispute. By so appointing an arbitrator all by themselves, they agree to be bound by the decision of the arbitrator and this decision (called the "award") can be enforceable in the court of law. Thus, by doing so, money and time of the parties are saved. Unending litigation at courts can b avoided by doing so.

The upcoming arbitration centre at Mumbai will offer a range of arbitrary services to the business community across the world. At present, most disputes go to Singapore' SIAC (Singapore International Arbitration Centre) for arbitration. Mumbai centre will create great opportunities, as Mumbai already has a presence of global CEOs.

Also, just like every other organization doing business, startups too get to deal with many people - employees, consultants, contractors, designers, suppliers, marketers, distributors - the list is endless.

If things work out, the planned Mumbai arbitration centre would be India's first such centre. The development is significant as the government is also establishing an international finance services Centre in Mumbai. Arbitration is a less formal procedure than court litigation, and it is conducted in private, away from media and public glare.

Singapore's arbitration centre SIAC has been functional since 1991 as an independent non-profit organisation. Interestingly, SIAC also has a liaison office in Mumbai at One Indiabulls Centre since 2013.

Notably, India ranks second in the number of cross-border disputes reaching the SIAC, a jump from the third place in 2013. And thus, the upcoming Mumbai International Arbitration Centre is a much-needed step from Maharashtra government.

Two parties having no connection with Singapore can also seek arbitration from SIAC. Hearings can also be held in their respective countries.

Singapore's Arbitration Centre is currently the leading centre for arbitration. “With the Mumbai centre, we aim to shift focus here," said Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister, Maharashtra.

"There is a rise in intellectual property rights and international legal cases. An arbitration centre will help in creating a workforce to handle such cases," he added.

8 Essential Rules To Start Your Dream Business On A Shoestring Budget

The Internet age has made the process of turning your startup dream into a reality a fairly easy process. Nowadays, you don't require tons of money with you in order to kickstart your own venture. All you require is passion and a full proof plan and you might end up becoming the next Bansal or Agrawal of the Indian startup industry. In order to help those passionate few who are still contemplating about starting on their dream venture thinking about the financial problems that they might face, we at IndianWeb2 present to you 8 things you can keep in mind to start your journey towards your dream within a limited budget.

1) Incorporate a company, but try keeping it simple -

A limited liability corporation (LLC) can be started in various parts of the world for less than $100. This can be done directly through the Internet and that too without any legal assistance. Following this you will be able to keep your financial and legal liabilities away from your personal assets, and it won’t cost you the big initial cost and ongoing time and fees of a C-corporation.

Tools & Resources - How to Register a Company/Startup in India, Ministry of Corporate Affairs - Company Registration

2) Start building your plan online and don't wait for funding -

You're the entrepreneur and it's your own business. So, take control and don't just wait for everything to happen on its own. Start making your own plans, goals and start achieving them one by one. You don't necessarily need an investor to be successful. Don't wait for good things to happen to you, make them happen happen yourself.

Tools & Resources - LivePlan, BPlans

3) Cut back on expenses as much as possible -

Since you're a startup, you can afford to splurge. There's no need to have a huge office to start a business or hire an accountant to track expenses and assets. There are several easy-to-use accounting packages available which run nicely on your existing small desktop or laptop.

Tools & Resources - QuickBooks

4) DIY -

You don't need to spend truckloads of money or someone else help to change your dream into a prototype. You can do that yourself nowadays. Start searching for free help at a local university/institute or look for one of those new maker spaces, such as IKP Knowledge Park, where one can easily rent time and equipment to do the job themselves. Take the matters in your own hand.

Tools & Resources - NutsandBoltz, Mackerspaces in India

5) Register your Intellectual property online -

Being a startup, the only important things or the valuable things that you have of your own are your intellectual property, the technology, software, hardware or anything else that you have developed yourself. Seeing the cut throat competition in the startup industry, we would recommend you to register and safeguard your these intellectual property right away and maintain your uniqueness from others. Don't worry. You won't have to shed lots of money in doing this especially if you're in the U.S. In the United States, trademarks, copyrights and even patents can be registered online for a few thousands rupees.

Tools & Resources - Govt. of India -e-Patent Filing, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

6) Use the assistance of virtual assistants -

In the initial few months, avoid employing an army of people as that could add a lot of money pressure on the startup. Go for low-cost freelancers available online or remote contract services. They provide excellent results and you even have the flexibility to decrease or increase the resources as per your needs.

Tools & Resources - Freelancer.in, UpWork

7) Explore low-cost software subscription and cloud computing -

Don't spend money on having an elaborate IT department. Use Google cloud services and Amazon web services to have all the application storage and computing power you need to have without shedding out big bucks on an IT staff and big up-front costs for computer servers and applications.

Tools & Resources - 10 Best Free CDN Services

8) Make Social Media your best friend -

Nowadays with all the free tools available online, you don't need to spend a single new penny in building your own website. Use tools like shopfiy etc. to give your business an online presence. Further, exploit free social media websites like Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google Plus etc. to make people aware about your business's existence.

10 Steps to Starting A Startup While Keeping Your Full-Time Job

Opening a business of our own and being our own bosses is on the to-do list of many. But, many of us don't have the luxury to bet all that we have and start on our startup dream journey. In order to keep the hopes of all those people who can't afford to keep their current job at risk in order to fulfil their life long dream, www.indianweb2.com brings to you a list of ten things that you can consider for starting your own business while keeping your full-time job.

1) Passion -

Before taking the final plunge and investing your hard earned money in your venture, ask yourself how badly do you want this to be successful. Starting a business will not be an easy task. While some days might be a cakewalk, there would surely some days under the sun. So, you need to be ready for any challenge that might come your way. Further, try to sort your life and start prioritising things in your life. The more free time you will have, the more you will be able to concentrate on your startup.

2) Take a note of your strong and weak points -

Since it's your business and you will be the one calling the shots, you should be well aware of the tasks that you're strong at and the tasks you would be needing external help. Don't have ego and start thinking that you can do it all, as this can have huge repercussions on your startup.

3) Think about your idea well -

There are thousands of startups launched every month but only a handful of them survive after the initial 3-4 months. The main reason for this is the lack of market need for the products or services being offered by these startups. Therefore, before launching the startup and investing your life time savings it, validate your idea by running it through a sample of potential customers and asking for their honest feedback.

4) Know your USP -

Define the unique thing that distinguishes your startup from the sea of other such firms already present in the market. Your firm needs to have something unique in order to retain itself in the highly competitive market. It can be your product offering, customer service or cost structure etc.

5) Define your goals -

Until and unless you dream about something, you won't achieve it. Hence, you should always have realistic goals set for your startup. For example, after six months, you want it to be able to achieve this much and within an year, you want it to be among the top 10 startups in its category etc. Such goals keep the momentum going and provide a zeal to keep working hard.

6) Roadmap to success -

Once you have set your goals or the destination where you want to reach, you should also figure out a way to reach there. Further, you should always have your backup plan ready in time of a crisis. Problem solving is one thing that you should become really good at.

7) Don't be afraid to outsource -

Once you have decided upon your goals and the roadmap you're going to take to achieve them, start looking out for things which aren't your forte and would require external expert help. Outsource as many things you can as you of course want the best for your startup.

8) Feedback -

Always ask for honest feedback from people other than your family and friends. After all, the product or service that you're offering is ultimately meant to be used by the public. Hence, a whole-hearted acceptance of the product or service is very important.

9) Keep the lines between your work and personal project well defined -

Make sure that you don't use any type of resources, whether hardware or software, of the organisation that you're currently working at for your own personal project because it can get you into deep legal troubles. Also, don't work on your personal project during company time as it can be termed highly unprofessional if you're caught.

10) Be fully prepared before quitting your job -

Research well and be fully sure about the fate of your startup before you walk up to your boss and hand him/her that resignation letter. If possible, hold on to your current job till the time your startup flags off completely and starts making money as till that time you would require some money to sustain on.

3 Disruptive Technologies You Need to Invest To Win the Future

Playing it safe is always good but playing safe may make sure that you don't sink or lose but it for sure won't take you the extra distance towards great success. If you want to do something big or make some good money, you should be ready to take some well-calculated risks. One of the ways in which you can make some big bucks is by investing in a technology called disruptive technology.

A disruptive technology or product is defined as a product that caters to a market that has previously not been addressed. For example, the smartphone, which is a quite regular phenomenon nowadays was at one point of time a disruptive product.

In order to provide you options with some winner disruptive technologies that are for sure set for something big in the future, we provide you with a list of three disruptive technologies you can invest in.

1) 3D Printing -

This technology is still a baby in the technology market. However, if used to its full potential, it has the capability of becoming an enormously disruptive technology. Prototyping, product development and innovation are the three most common reasons companies are pursuing 3D printing.

With the coming of 3D printing, products which people were forced to order for outside can now easily be made at home, all thanks to 3D printing. The industry of 3D printing has provided the people with the great opportunity to procure rather than produce.

According to Wohlers Report 2014, the worldwide 3D printing industry is now expected to grow from $3.07B in revenue in 2013 to $12.8B by 2018, and exceed $21B in worldwide revenue by 2020. Even Gartner projects that the 3D printing market globally will grow from $1.6B in 2015 to $13.4B in 2018, attaining a 103.1% CAGR.

2) The Internet of Things (IoT) -

The IoT is one phrase that best describes the technology driven interconnected world that we all live in nowadays. It is all because of this wonder invention of the mankind that our lives have become sorted, simpler and faster. The IoT allows household electronic devices, such as televisions and tube-lights etc. to be connected to the Internet and accessed by anyone who is online.

The global Internet of Things market will grow to $1.7 trillion in 2020 from $655.8 billion in 2014 as per research firm IDC. The firm predicts that the number of “IoT endpoints,” connected devices such as cars, refrigerators and everything in between, will grow from 10.3 billion in 2014 to more than 29.5 billion in 2020.

Related reading - Govt. To Create An IoT Industry In India Of USD 15 Billion By 2020

3) Medical Technology -

Keep a tab on all the latest happenings in the Medical technology world, if you're really looking forward to bet your hard earned money in something truly disruptive. The healthcare industry is making great inventions one after another. So, do your homework and be ready to invest.

5 Top Questions VCs May Ask Startups

Venture Capitals are like parents to a startup. Just like parents who ask their children a bunch of tough questions before they invest their money in their dream college or career. Similarly, a startup seeking investment from a Venture Capital needs to be well prepared for all the tough questions that can bowled at them at them at any point of time. In order to prepare every new entrepreneur with this test of life, we at Indianweb2.com, have prepared a list of five questions that one must be well prepared with before going for that big meeting.

1) Future Plans -

Every Venture Capital wants to know if you have a future plan in place for your startup. Your future plans depict yours vision for the startup and your expectations from it. They might ask you a tricky question like, if you're in the market for a long haul or you’re just waiting for a lucrative buyout after building it. So, answer with all your wit. They might also want to know your rough strategic plan for the company. So, study and prepare well.

2) Where are you currently positioned in your fundraising process?

This one is a toughie. Here, the Venture capitalists are trying to assess their importance in your life. They might ask you, how many other investors are you in talks with and where do they as investors stand in your priority list. Answer this question with all your honesty and don't try to dodge the bullet as these are trained professionals who are well versed with the ability to read in between the lines.

3) Tell us about the team -

Here the keywords that they want to hear fall out of your mouth and straight into their ears are "focused", "committed ", and "from a long time" etc. Every startup, no matter how brilliant the founder and the basic idea is, wants a team of well qualified and enthusiastic team to function properly and prosper. A VC looking to invest really wants to know if your team is ready and committed to give them their moneys worth.

4) Your views and plans for the competitors -

Here don't act like you're the best in the market and no one is even near you. Confidence is good. Overconfidence is not. When asked about your competitors and your plans to handle the competition, try being honest and explain the VCs what makes your XYZ Company better and different than the ABC company. Here, try to show your passion and conviction towards your startup. This will surely get you the investment.

5) Valuations Expectations -

This one is a pretty tricky one. Be careful. Don't make the mistake of overvaluing or undervaluing your company. Avoid giving a specific figure and go for things like, "we will see what the market decides." This way you will able to maintain their curiosity and be safe from making the mistake of undervaluing your hard work. However, you yourself should be clear about your capital expectations.

7 Things To Know Before You Kickstart A Startup

Opening a new business is no easy task. It isn't like you wake up one fine morning and decide to start a business. It requires a whole lot of research, focus and hard work before you take the final plunge and kickstart your startup. We at IndianWeb2 understand this and have therefore prepared a list of seven things you must know before you start your own business.

Here we go!

1) Make technology your best friend -

Let's face it, nothing is possible without the support of technology these days. Make sure you identify the cheapest and the most appropriate technology required for the working of your startup. Website has now become the pseudo identification card of your startup. So, make sure you have the latest and fastest interface in place.

2) Know your target audience -

The first and foremost thing is to identify the audience or people your trying to sell your product or service to. Once that is done, research your audience well. You should know well about their buying behaviour, their browsing behaviour, things they like and things they don't.

3) Market research -

In order for your startup to be a success, you should know how the market which you're trying to break in, actually works. Know the A to Z of your market and your startup is set for life.

4) Data -

Data analysis is a key to assure the success of your startup. With the data in place, one can effectively strategise the future path of the company. Data analysis allows one to plan in advance about the strategies for the company's stocking, inventory, financial strategies and market approaches.

5) The drive to do something big -

You may have a killer idea and all the finances in place but if you don't have the passion and drive to do something big, all that is of no use. As an entrepreneur, the word 'no' shouldn't exist in your dictionary. Be ready to take on any challenge which might be thrown in front of you. Being an entrepreneur, learning new things should now become a part of your daily schedule.

6) Plan every detail -

You're opening a business. Before making such a big investment, make sure that you have planned everything from the tinniest to the biggest details. Remember, this can make a huge difference to your startup.

7) Be a Prude when it comes to acquisitions -

Acquisition can make a huge, huge difference to a startup. They have the capability to take your startup to the next level or break it down completely. So, while acquiring, make sure you pay attention to every detail like costs, management, investments, culture and revenues etc.

Spending First Million In Your Startup

With the news of a new startup getting funded every now and then, we start believing that getting fundings worth millions and billions is actually not that tough a job. But, you're mistaken. While getting someone to trust you and invest a part of his money in your idea is for sure a tough job, what's tougher is making sure to spend that money judicially for the good of your startup.

It has often come to notice that many startups who were doing exceptionally well for them before the funding, just lose their way after funding. This is basically because they start behaving as an unsupervised kid in Disneyland. They start spending on things like office upgrades, unnecessary technology tools and various other unproductive things that are totally not needed by the startup at that point of time. They spend on these things just simply because they can.

According to industry experts, the first million (Rs. 6.4 crore approx.) is like a cushion foundation on which your startup's future is built. It is also the basis on which the future funding rounds of the startup will be based. Hence, the sane thing to do is not to spend on unnecessary things like a fancy office with a fancy coffee vending machine but to invest that money in making your product/ service better.

Further, they can also make use of the money to take special care of their current customers. A part of the funding can be used to establish a customer care service for the customer. After all, if the customer is happy, you're happy.

As per Sahil Lavingia who is founder of online startup GumRoad - "allocate 99 percent to people, and maybe a little bit to server cost."

"People should be the only expense at an early technology company...You're not providing a human-powered service, you are building products. Products need code to run, not money," he added.

So, spend your funding with care because if the story of rags to riches is true, so is the story riches to rags.

Unfortunately, large capital raises often result in the money being spent less efficiently.

Investors who make large investments often place pressure (subtle and otherwise) on startups to"spend the money and get big, quick." Such an environment can lead to bad decisions, including hiring ahead of needs, ramping up for an unrealistic level of product adoption, etc.

A realistic "use of funds" is essential component of your 'Plan'. It should be tied to major milestones and the impact of such milestones should be baked into your financial pro formas.

As an idealistic appoach, an early stage startup should invest the money raised in its very first funding in :
(1) Hiring the right team for the business
(2) perfecting the product, which may involve re-engineering
(3) Customer Acquisitions and marketing.

Online startup Quora's Co-Founder Adam D'Angelo gave a good breakdown of what Quora will do with its latest $50M in funding

10 Bootstrapping Marketing Tips For Entrepreneurs & Startups

It's a famous saying that you can even sell a comb to a bald person if you know how to market and advertise your product well. On the same hand, you can have the best product to offer in the market but it might still fail to have a connect with the audience as the customers aren't even aware of its existence.

The startups who are still testing the waters of the industry would understand this very well. As a startup, it's a task to manage your marketing strategies within the set budget you have. In order to help those bootstrapped startups market their products well without causing much burden on the purse strings, we at www.indianweb2.com have combined a list of ten marketing tactics that the bootstrapped startups can adopt.

Here we go!

• Go the Intern way -

  This is a widely adopted marketing tactic nowadays. They are easy on the pocket and fresh with enthusiasm and vigour to learn something new. A startup can prove to be a great learning opportunity for young graduates or undergrads.
  




• Make yourself a Marketing plan -

  While we understand the immense love you have for your product and how you think and feel it's the best in the market but the customers aren't going to stumble on this by their own. You need to have an objective marketing plan in hand to make them realise this and choose your product over anyone else's in the market.





• Social Media -

  This part needs no explanation. Everybody knows the importance of social media in the business world nowadays. It's like an Identity card for your existence. More and more people check if a product is genuine by searching it on various social media platforms and reading the previous customer reviews and ratings. An account on the top 5 social media sites: Linked in, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest and Twitter is a must.





• Work on Your Press Releases -

  In order to register your existence in the minds of the people, start writing your own press releases. If you think you cannot write, outsource them from professional writers.
  




• Free PR is good -

  There are a lot of websites out there (like IndianWeb2) which offer press releases absolutely free of cost. Go for them right away.





• Your Website Is Your Passport To Success -

  The main aim of having several social media accounts is to make those socially active customers land on your company's website and turn them from potential to sure-short customers. Therefore, don't cut down when it comes to spending on designing your website. If your website is appealing then people visiting your website might not be able to resist themselves from buying your product.





• Prepare A Detailed List Of All Business Prospects -

  This is where the student interns that you have hired will come to use. Make a detailed list of all your personal and business contacts that you see have the potential to turn into clients. The Internet can also come in handy.





• Have a social media marketing plan in place -

  Just having several social media accounts won't suffice the purpose. Make sure that you regularly update these accounts with relevant information. Delegate the task of responding to all types of messages and comments on the various pages to the interns. Be active.





• Videos -

  Visuals always help. A video or photograph has much more registration power in the minds of the people when compared to text. Make small, economical and product relevant videos and upload them on YouTube to attract the attention of more people.





• Benchmark -

  Being a startup, you might not be having enough money today but being a startup, you have the liberty to try out new things, new marketing strategies and see how they work out for your startup. Make sure you try out as many new things as possible so that when the money comes pouring in, you know exactly where you have to invest it.

A Few Tips for the First Time Entrepreneurs & Startup-ers

Starting something new is exciting as well as nerve racking at the same time. While you're looking forward to new experiences, you're also afraid at the same time thinking about the unexpected. Entrepreneurship as a profession might look glamorous and all hunky-dory from outside but this is not the case in reality.

In reality, the profession isn't all about roaming around in expensive cars, staying in five stars hotels or attending Page 3 cocktail parties everyday. The reality involves constant innovation, slogging and planning in order to make sure that your company is able stand out from the rest constantly. In order to help those first time entrepreneurs who are taking their first tiny steps in the startup industry get through an awesome start, we at www.indianweb2.com have compiled a list of a few tips that will help them get through the initial hiccups.

Self-belief -

This is the least you can do for yourself. Until and unless you believe in yourself and your idea, how do you intend to convince others to believe in your idea and invest their hard earned money in it. Have the courage to think something new and stand by it through thick and thin. Don't ever underestimate yourself as that will be your first step towards failure.

When a young would-be entrepreneur is starting out, he (or she) has not had the time to build his (or her) self-confidence. Our advice is to adopt a positive attitude. When you have a new idea, you will find hundreds of people who will tell you why it cannot be done. Do not give power to invalidating people. Believe in yourself – and believe in your idea. Own it. Everything that you as a new entrepreneur explains should be in positive terms. The learning process is to feel in your gut that you are right and that every obstacle is an opportunity.

Focus -

Have a set goal and work through all your might to achieve it. Don't get disappointed or arrogant too soon because of the initial success or failure that you may face. Always remember "nothing is permanent". Keep working hard to achieve that one goal you have set for yourself and your startup in your mind and don't let any hiccup get in your way.

Working on stuff that doesn't matter will never get you to the promised land.

Staying focused can be tough with a constant stream of employees, clients, emails, and phone calls demanding your attention. Amid the noise, understanding your brain’s limitations and working around them can improve your focus and increase your productivity. Read - How to Stay Focused: Train Your Brain - via Entrepreneur.com

 

Money Is Important -

Don't get into the show-off business and over spend on things that you don't need as you never know when the tables might turn. Have enough cash flow ready with you for the difficult times. Yes, we know this means that you can't go out and buy the fancy car, and expense everything to the business right out of the gate. Though, we think that if you stay on top of the previous tips; the fast car, fancy office, and glorious dinners may come!

"Spend less than what you're earning". The advantage of practicing fundamental personal finance in your life is that you'll sleep at ease every night knowing that even if you entrepreneurial activities were to fail, you would be fine in the long run from a financial perspective.

Don't look out for the "Perfect Plan"

Wise men says "Strive for Progress, Not Perfection." To be really honest, there is no such thing as a "perfect plan". There is no perfect road that you can head down that will grant success. To each to his own. What may work for you, might not work for someone else. So, don't copy anyone else and go with the flow, and the path will pave itself for you. Think well before you act or speak is the mantra you should follow.

Building and improving your small business requires a few growing pains. But dwelling on those tiny slip-ups can stymie the growth of both you and your business. It’s more important to focus on progress, not perfection. Because every entrepreneur must learn to crawl before they can walk.

5 Things Every Startup Must Know About SEBI's New Rules For IPO

Thinking of starting a startup in India? Well, you seem to have chosen the right time and the right place. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), India's stock market regulator, recently announced that startups are all set to have a separate trading platform for listing. This step can be seen as as part of the various measures taken by SEBI in order to encourage entrepreneurs and startups to list their companies in India rather than in markets abroad.

Here are five things you must know about SEBI's new rules:

1. A startup is no longer required to be profitable in order to get listed on the stock exchange. According to the earlier rules, a startup was required to be profitable for at least a period of three years in order to get listed. Industry insiders are considering this as the most important change in the recent steps taken by SEBI.




2. Disclosure norms - Under the new rules, the earlier stringent disclosure norms have now been slightly relaxed. This can act as a real breather for startups and entrepreneurs that weren't so happy and comfortable about revealing everything about their startup right away. Also, the earlier rules also required dedicated teams in order to meet the regulatory requirements. Managing and affording such a team was a little difficult for startups at their nascent stages.




3. Exit Policy for Venture Capitals and Angel Investors - What could be seen as big relief for Venture Capitals and Angel Investors, under the new rules, they will be now be able to exit much easier than before. According to industry experts, this rule should have been implemented 3-5 years ago but it's better late than never, we guess.




4. If at least a quarter of a startup's pre-issued capital is held by qualified institutional buyers - like venture capital, private equity firms or non-banking financial companies, then, under the new rules, startups operating in the areas such as as biotech, information technology and analytics are now eligible to get listed on the Institutional Trading Platform of exchanges. Startups not belonging to the tech sector, can also get list on the platform but they would be required to have half of their pre-issue capital being held by Qualified Institutional buyers.
   



5. Minimum Locking Period of Founders' Shares - What could be seen as welcome change for entrepreneurs, the new rules dictate that the Startup founders' shares will now be locked in for a minimum period of six months only, instead of the earlier period of three years. This would provide the founders more incentive to get their companies listed.


With a total count of 3,100 startups, India is currently ranked fifth in the world after the United States, the European Union, Canada and China.

According to SEBI chairman UK Sinha, "They (startups) felt the regulatory regime in this country was not favourable for listing in India. So we have made very special provisions for such startup companies."

These new changes are expected to go live from January 1, 2016.