Gautam Adani marked his 64th birthday by introducing Vande Bharatam, an unprecedented undertaking to stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship across India. The goal of this program is to connect aspiring innovators with mentorship and support, bridging the gap between opportunity and talent throughout all 36 states and union territories of India (800+ districts), and across many Indian languages.
Although India has emerged as an extremely significant startup ecosystem in recent years across the globe — the majority of its startup founders (80%) are located within five major cities — the Adani Group has developed Vande Bharatam as a method to elevate entrepreneurs and small businesses from smaller communities (towns, villages, tribal groups, etc.) which have limited access to mentorship, capital, and/or national recognition.
Vande Bharatam Aims To Build The Next Generation
Vande Bharatam is different from traditional methods of identifying entrepreneurs through startup accelerator competitions; it allows all potential entrepreneurs to apply regardless of their age, profession, educational attainment, or how far they are along in creating their businesses. Applicants can submit ideas for their starting point in an innovative way by submitting application forms as an individual or as a member of a group.
Entrepreneurs across industries (IT and Telecommunications, Agriculture, Manufacturing, Environmental & Traditional Craft and Community-Driven Solutions) are encouraged to apply to be part of the Vande Bharatam program.
Gautam Adani talked about his entrepreneurial journey before launching Vande Bharatam, saying he was born into a large family with limited resources and believes there are many skilled individuals within India. He stated that Vande Bharatam is aimed at creating opportunities to all deserving entrepreneurs throughout India and providing access to potential markets.
75 Finalists to Receive Mentorship, Funding Opportunities and Recognition
After being evaluated at both the state and regional levels, 75 finalists will receive an invitation to participate in an intensive mentorship program featuring industry leaders, investors, incubation partners, and business mentors in Ahmedabad. The program will conclude with a grand finale event occurring around India’s Independence Day and will award prize money, category specific awards, and long-term networking opportunities.
To add to the excitement of this initiative, Rajeev Khandelwal, an internationally recognized actor and entrepreneur and TV host, has agreed to serve as the Vande Bharatam Ambassador and Host. This initiative, which promotes inclusive entrepreneurship across India, will assist in accelerating the country’s path to becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 and will provide opportunities for future innovators in India.
