The Tejaswini Ideathon pitching round took place at NEATEHUB, the agribusiness incubator of Assam Agricultural University, on July 31, 2024. This business idea contest aims to promote and identify entrepreneurial women from Assam, supported by the Industries and Commerce Department (Government of Assam) and implemented by the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation Ltd. (NEHHDC).
The event showcased around 40 women entrepreneurs from Jorhat and surrounding districts, who pitched their innovative ideas to a panel of esteemed judges. The competition focuses on six key sectors: Handicraft & Handloom, Health & Wellness, IT & ITES, Agri-allied & Food Processing, Tourism and Hospitality, and Green/Sustainable Enterprises.
Promoting Entrepreneurial Spirit in Diverse Sectors
The Tejaswini Ideathon encourages creativity and innovation in a variety of sectors. By providing a platform for women entrepreneurs to present their business ideas, the event aims to foster economic growth and development in Assam. The competition not only highlights the potential of women in business but also aligns with the broader goals of sustainable development and community empowerment.
Support and Recognition for Top Ideas
The top 50 ideas selected from the pitching round will receive expert guidance, mentoring, and handholding support. These entrepreneurs will benefit from the knowledge and experience of industry experts, helping them to refine and develop their business concepts. Additionally, cash prizes of ₹1,50,000, ₹1,00,000, and ₹75,000 will be awarded to the first, second, and third positions, respectively. There will also be special prizes for student ideas, women in technology, and innovative ideas from homemakers.
Esteemed Jury and Collaborative Efforts
The panel of judges included Dr. K. Karthikeyan, CEO of NEATEHUB, among other notable figures. NEATEHUB’s collaboration with the event underscores its commitment to supporting entrepreneurial initiatives and fostering a culture of innovation. As the entrepreneurs progress, they will have the opportunity to collaborate with NEATEHUB and avail themselves of its incubator services, further enhancing their prospects for success.
A Step Towards Economic Empowerment
The Tejaswini Ideathon is more than just a contest; it is a significant step towards the economic empowerment of women in Assam. By encouraging women to venture into entrepreneurship, the event aims to create a robust ecosystem where innovative ideas can flourish. This initiative not only contributes to the individual growth of the participants but also to the overall economic development of the region.
Conclusion
The Tejaswini Ideathon at NEATEHUB has set a remarkable example of how targeted initiatives can empower women and drive innovation. By providing a platform for women entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas and receive support, the event is helping to pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in Assam’s business landscape.
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