In today’s fast-evolving business landscape, cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset is crucial for driving innovation and economic growth. India’s startup ecosystem has flourished, now featuring over 110 unicorns and 5,000 angel investors. In response, K J Somaiya Institute of Management remains dedicated to equipping future business leaders with the skills and values needed for success in a rapidly changing global market. To further this mission, the institute has introduced the “StartUp Launchpad,” a flagship initiative to empower aspiring entrepreneurs.
The institute has collaborated with Riidl (Research Innovation Incubation Design Laboratory) under the Somaiya Trust, to provide a comprehensive ecosystem combining mentorship, seed funding, and industry connections, enabling participants to transform innovative ideas into scalable businesses. As students, the opportunity to build a business with support from our alma mater is incredibly motivating. It gives us the confidence to pursue our dreams, knowing we have the right guidance and resources to succeed.
Inculcating an Innovative and Problem-Solving Mindset:
At K J Somaiya Institute of Management, students from diverse backgrounds whether from family businesses or aspiring first-time entrepreneurs are given equal opportunities to unleash their entrepreneurial potential. One key initiative taken by the institute is the “Design Thinking and Entrepreneurship” course, introduced in the first semester of the MBA journey. This course, far from being just another credit requirement, is a powerful catalyst for innovation and creativity.
With faculty serving as facilitators, we are guided step by step through understanding consumer needs and developing solutions that can evolve into viable business ideas. Additionally, for those serious about bringing their ideas to life, the startup incubation centre at K J Somaiya Institute of Management provides the perfect platform to take their venture forward. This course is more than an academic requirement. It is a true kickstart to an entrepreneurial journey.
Providing students with an All in One Start-up Ecosystem:
Launching a startup requires significant effort and resources, making access to the right facilities, guidance, and networking essential. The institute addresses these needs by providing comprehensive support to help you bring your ideas to life.
The partnership with the Riidl incubation centre establishes a robust ecosystem for early-stage startups. Riidl offers a nurturing environment, complete with dedicated workspaces, expert mentoring community support, and focused groups for those interested in pursuing technology-based projects. The Technology Business Incubator helps early-stage startups develop their products from the idea stage to the funding stage.
As students, we have access to an extensive range of services including expert advice, connections to industry leaders and investors, legal and patent support, infrastructure, HR assistance, cloud services, networking opportunities and 24/7 access to state-of-the-art laboratories. With the required support, your entrepreneurial journey can transition from concept to reality.
Your Path to Success- Grab Every Opportunity!
Joining the incubation centre opens the door to a plethora of learning and upskilling opportunities through various initiatives, including:
- Acceleration Programme: A six-week programme designed for startups with a solid customer base, aimed at accelerating growth and scaling operations.
- Design Thinking Workshops: These workshops tackle real-world problems by integrating social and humanistic inquiry into a technology and entrepreneurship-focused curriculum.
- CodeAdventure: A month-long programme where developer teams tackle specific problem statements, enriched by speaker sessions with industry experts.
- SkillEd: This initiative helps you turn ideas into prototypes while equipping you with a diverse range of skills in digital fabrication.
These offerings are just the beginning! A key highlight is the Maker Mela, a vibrant showcase of innovation featuring startup founders, innovators, and designers from various fields. This event provides an excellent platform for makers to exhibit their creations, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and connect with relevant stakeholders while engaging a curious audience interested in DIY culture and grassroots innovation.
Participating in the Maker Mela also offers significant exposure, with access to government grants, seed funding, and partner credits. There is so much more to explore—your entrepreneurial journey begins here!
Legacy of Success- Our Venture Highlights:
Are you ready to discover the groundbreaking ventures from the partnership between K J Somaiya Institute of Management and the Riidl Incubation Centre? Let’s dive into some impressive highlights!
This partnership has proudly raised over $2 million in investments, nurtured 160+ innovative start-ups, facilitated 54+ successful investments, and created 400+ jobs! The featured start-ups, including SquareOff, Indra, Offee, Kustard, and Pepstudy, are just the tip of the iceberg!
The institute’s commitment to innovation has garnered prestigious awards like the Global Innovation Entrepreneurship Award from ISKCON and the Young Achiever Award from World Education Magazine in 2014, among many others!
Join K J Somaiya Institute of Management and unlock incredible opportunities in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship. The future is bright so let’s build it together.
Admissions are open for MBA/ MBA HCM/ MBA SM for the year 2025-27. To apply or for more information, click here.