IIM Sambalpur is gearing up to host the one-day 100-Cube Startup Conclave at its campus on March 1, 2024. The conclave, orchestrated by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with IIM Sambalpur, aims to foster the entrepreneurial spirit in the country and empower youth to innovate and create value. Through this event, IIM Sambalpur envisions establishing 100 startups on its premises, each with an approximate valuation of INR 100 Crores by Odisha’s centennial celebration in 2036.
Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan, is expected to attend the event as the Chief Guest, with approximately 1200 attendees. Moreover, 300 startups, including 50 from Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, Bargarh, and other districts of Odisha, will participate, along with key stakeholders, investors, industry mentors, ministry representatives, students, and members of the incubator and venture capital communities.
The 100-Cube Startup Conclave will also mark the launch of the ‘I-Hub Foundation’, a registered Section 8 company serving as IIM Sambalpur’s incubator. This foundation will operate both physically and virtually, collaborating with various stakeholders in Odisha’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur, emphasized that the conclave aligns with the institute’s vision of promoting entrepreneurship and a startup culture in Odisha. He stated that the event will provide startups with a platform to showcase their potential while offering comprehensive support and networking opportunities with various stakeholders.
Speaking about the I-Hub Foundation, Prof. Jaiswal highlighted that it will support and nurture innovative ventures across diverse sectors, including textiles, arts and culture, agriculture, healthcare, financial and digital inclusivity, tribal entrepreneurship, and sustainability.
The initiative is significant, not only for fostering startups but also for contributing to the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem in Odisha. As the conclave unfolds, it aims to inspire and catalyze the growth of startups that can make a lasting impact on the state’s economic landscape. IIM Sambalpur is taking strides in aligning its efforts with the broader national vision of promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.
