IIM Kashipur concludes Uttishtha’25, showcasing 200+ agri-startups & MSMEs

New Delhi: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Kashipur successfully concluded Uttishtha’25, its flagship entrepreneurship summit, which witnessed two days of engaging discussions, competitions, and startup showcases.

Organized in collaboration with FIED, IIM Kashipur and supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, the event brought together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and students, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration.

The second day of Uttishtha’25 commenced with the Expo Inauguration, where emerging entrepreneurs and industry leaders displayed groundbreaking innovations in Agri-Startups, MSMEs, and FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations). The Expo served as a vital platform for entrepreneurs to exhibit their business models and interact with potential investors and mentors. Throughout the day, attendees explored cutting-edge innovations across various industries, solidifying Uttishtha’25 as a premier entrepreneurship summit.

The event successfully brought together over 10,000 attendees and saw participation from 200+ Agri-Startups, MSMEs, and FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations) and 2,000+ business schools, making it one of the most impactful entrepreneurship summits in the region. With inspiring success stories, cutting-edge startup showcases, and invaluable networking opportunities, Uttishtha’25 has set a new benchmark in fostering entrepreneurial excellence.

The event was graced by an esteemed panel of guests, including Dr. Deepak Murari, Joint Director, Directorate of Industries, Uttarakhand; Santosh Kumar Sinha, Deputy General Manager, SIDBI; Dr. Deepak Kumar Pandey, Assistant Director, Higher Education Department, Government of Uttarakhand; Dr. Shyam Kapri, Assistant Dean (Training & Placement), Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun; Khalid Wani, Founder & Director, KWCG; S.K. Verma, Deputy Director, Technical Education Department, Government of Uttarakhand; Dr. Amit Kumar Dwivedi, Professor & Director – Government Project Department & Regional Director – Northern Regional Office, EDII; Devendra Kumar Agarwal, Chairman, KVS Premier Group; and Pankaj Yadav, Chief General Manager, NABARD.

The school engagement activities were another key highlight of the day, inspiring young minds to think creatively and develop problem-solving skills. Events such as career counseling, MBA insights sessions, and science fairs introduced students to diverse opportunities in business and entrepreneurship. Enthusiastic participation was seen in drawing, poster-making, essay writing, stick-building, and fancy dress competitions, further encouraging students to showcase their talents and innovative thinking.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Prof. Safal Batra, Director of FIED at IIM Kashipur, stated, “Uttishtha’25 has once again reinforced IIM Kashipur’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. The overwhelming response from entrepreneurs, students, and industry leaders underscores the growing relevance of startup ecosystems in shaping the future of business. We are proud to provide a platform where ideas transform into actionable business solutions.”

During the entrepreneurship summit, the atmosphere buzzed with energy during the prize distribution ceremony, where winners of various competitions, including Udaan, Hult Prize, B-Plan, and Social Entrepreneurship competitions, were felicitated. These competitions provided a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas and receive valuable feedback from seasoned industry professionals.