India, February 23, 2025 – 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 15,000 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.
As IIM Kashipur continues to champion innovation and leadership, Uttishtha’25 stands as a
testament to the institute’s unwavering dedication to empowering entrepreneurs and
shaping the future of business.
