The University of Mumbai (MU) has officially launched Ideathon-2.0, an initiative aimed at empowering student entrepreneurs by supporting their innovative ideas and helping them turn these concepts into start-ups. Students interested in participating can submit their proposals through the provided link, https://tinyurl.com/Ideathon4u, with the deadline for submission set for October 24, 2024.
The launch event, held on Friday, October 4, 2024, was graced by the presence of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ravindra Kulkarni and Consul General of Mexico, Adolfo Garcia Estrada. Other notable attendees included Dr. Sachin Lajdha, Director of Innovation, and Prof. B. Bhosle, Director of the School of International Relations. Prof. Kulkarni highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating, “Through Ideathon-2.0, the university's start-up clinics will be strengthened.”
Proposals submitted by students will first be presented at one of the 47 start-up clinics located on campus, designed to assist and guide students as they refine their ideas. The most promising proposals will then be selected for further development at the MU Ideas Foundation-Incubation Centre, where they will be nurtured into sustainable business ventures.
Ideathon-2.0 marks the second iteration of this initiative, following the success of Ideathon-1.0. During the inaugural edition, the university received 62 proposals from students across India, from which 10 were chosen for further development at the MU Ideas Foundation-Incubation Centre. Dr. Sachin Lajdha, who oversees innovation and research partnerships at the university, reiterated the institution's commitment to this mission, declaring, "We are committed to transforming innovative concepts into new industries."
The MU Ideas Foundation-Incubation Centre, established in 2029, plays a crucial role in fostering entrepreneurship among young students. It has been allocated ₹5 crore in funding from the Maharashtra State Innovation Society to provide financial support and mentorship to budding innovators. This center not only helps bring student ideas to fruition but also creates an ideal environment for entrepreneurs to grow and thrive.
With Ideathon-2.0, Mumbai University aims to cultivate entrepreneurship among its students, creating pathways for them to transform their creative ideas into real businesses. This initiative promises to contribute significantly to the economy while fostering personal growth within the modern landscape. The university is committed to equipping the younger generation with the necessary tools and support to enhance their entrepreneurial skills, as highlighted in the recent press statement.
