Workshop on Raising Capital and Managing Finance for Start-ups

Online Workshop on Raising Capital and Managing Finance for Start-ups

Organized by Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC) and Department of MBA

Program Date and Time: 8 May 2025 | 9.30 am – 12.30 pm

Speaker: Mrs. Srishty Jain, Founder and CEO CoLLearn, Bengaluru.

Introduction

The Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), in collaboration with the Department of MBA, successfully organized a half-day online workshop focused on startups and entrepreneurship. The workshop aimed to provide final-year MBA students with critical insights into the startup ecosystem, encouraging them to explore entrepreneurial opportunities.

Keynote Speaker and Startup Journey

The keynote session was delivered by Ms. Srishty Jain, Founder and CEO of CoLLearn—an ed-tech platform dedicated to helping individuals transition into careers in the sports industry. With the motto “Transform Your Passion for Sports into a Winning Career,” CoLLearn aims to become the largest enabler for learners seeking success in the sports sector.

Session Highlights

Ms. Jain’s address provided comprehensive insights into various government-backed schemes designed to support startups. She elaborated on funding opportunities, incubation programs, mentorship resources, and policy benefits available through both the Central Government of India and the Government of Karnataka.

Central Government Schemes

Key initiatives discussed included the Startup India Initiative, which offers benefits such as:
– Simplified regulatory compliance and self-certification
– Tax exemptions for three consecutive years
– Access to funding via the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) and Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
– Credit guarantees through the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS)
– Intellectual Property support and rebates
– Exemptions in public procurement
– Networking platforms for startups to connect with investors and mentors

Karnataka State Government Schemes

Ms. Jain also highlighted Karnataka-specific initiatives such as:
– ELEVATE Program: Grants up to ₹50 lakh, with ₹25 crore allocated under ELEVATE 2024
– Startup Karnataka Booster Kit: Sector-specific resources and mentoring
– Reimbursement Schemes: Including State GST, international marketing, patent filing, and quality certification costs
– Fund of Funds: ₹300 crore general fund and ₹100 crore for deep-tech startups under LEAP
– Unnati Scheme: Up to ₹50 lakh for SC/ST entrepreneurs with tech-based innovations

The workshop was a valuable platform for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering clarity on the vast support infrastructure available through government initiatives. Ms. Jain’s insights into funding opportunities, eligibility criteria, and application processes were especially beneficial for students seeking to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys.