Start-ups and student entrepreneurs to compete in GITAM’s mega pitch fest

Hyderabad, June 6 (KNN) GITAM (Deemed to be University) has opened entries for StartupIndia SmartIDEAthon - an annual pan-India mega pitch-fest.

It is accepting applications for innovative ideas by Indian students across four themes: Food & Health, Toys for STEM, Sustainable Fashion and Frugal Innovation till 10 June, 2023.

The pitch fest will culminate in a reality show-style grand finale on 24-25 August at GITAM’s Hyderabad campus.

The student pitching competition is inviting individuals and ideation-level start-ups to pitch ideas for sustainable and resilient community building.

It is organized by Venture Development Centre, GITAM (Deemed to be University) in collaboration with StartupIndia, Northeastern University Center for Emerging Markets, Boston and Northeastern University Center for Entrepreneurship Education (NUCEE), Boston.

Winning student entrepreneurs stand a chance to win personalised coaching and bootcamps by internationally-trained venture coaches, a sponsored trip to the USA to showcase at Boston Entrepreneurship Week, and cash and grants worth Rs 30 Lakh for winners and runners-up. 

Speaking about the mega fest Prof. Balkumar Marthi, Dean – Innovation, GITAM (Deemed to be University) said, “StartupIndia SmartIDEAThon 2023 is a brilliant platform for students and aspiring student entrepreneurs from all across the country to present their ideas to the world and win some exciting prizes and the opportunity to network with renowned experts.”

“This is an invaluable opportunity to meet like-minded people and be a part of the vibrant entrepreneurship ecosystem,” he added.

In Round 1, a panel of top venture leaders will review the submitted minute-long video pitches and presentations for relevance and innovation.

Up to 100 shortlisted applicants will make it to Round 2 and will be invited for online bootcamp sessions and receive coaching by ace entrepreneurship practitioners.

After the panel re-assesses submitted ideas for innovation, scalability and impact, 32 shortlisted teams from Round 2 get to walk into the semi-finals.

The semi-finals and the grand finale will be organised in person at GITAM’s Hyderabad campus, where the teams will network with industry experts, entrepreneurs and other prominent guests.

Finally only eight teams will pitch to an eminent jury and live audience on stage in an auditorium setting. 

Click here to register: https://rb.gy/308bp  (KNN Bureau)