The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation, in collaboration with BodhBridge Education, has launched two free online entrepreneurship training programs. Registration for the first batch closes on October 28, 2023 . The inaugural online sessions are scheduled to commence on November 1, 2023 .
These initiatives aim to introduce participants to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. They will teach how businesses are conceptualized and established. Learners will understand the process of developing ideas into viable ventures. The training covers basic steps for identifying market opportunities, conducting thorough market analysis, and constructing sustainable business models.
The programs target a broad audience across different educational levels. ‘From Students to Startup’ is specifically designed for undergraduate students, postgraduate students, and working professionals. ‘Discover the Entrepreneur in You’ is tailored for school students from Classes 7 to 12. Both courses are offered entirely free of cost.
Prospective candidates can register for either program through the dedicated website: bodhbridge.iitmpravartak.org.in . IIT Madras Pravartak has confirmed that similar batches will be conducted monthly following the initial November launch, providing continuous opportunities for enrollment.
Program Structure and Features
Each entrepreneurship program incorporates live interactive sessions with expert instructors. These sessions provide direct engagement and learning opportunities. Participants will receive comprehensive course materials to support their studies. Real-world case studies are integrated to illustrate practical application of concepts. Access to recorded versions of all sessions is also provided, allowing for flexible learning schedules. All training and study materials are supplied free of charge.
A press release from IIT Madras Pravartak highlighted India’s growing startup and innovation landscape. It noted that structured exposure to entrepreneurship remains limited among students. The programs aim to address this gap directly. They specifically encourage the development of problem-solving abilities, fostering creativity, building leadership skills, and promoting adaptability among participants. These skills are considered crucial for future career readiness and success.
Detailed Curriculum
From Students to Startup
This program focuses on the complete lifecycle of a new venture. It starts with the identification of innovative business ideas. Participants learn methodologies for idea validation to ensure market viability. The curriculum includes building robust business models. It covers essential market research techniques for understanding target audiences and competitive landscapes. Modules also address various funding mechanisms, effective marketing strategies, and crucial compliance processes necessary for establishing and operating a business.
Discover the Entrepreneur in You
This course introduces school students to core business principles. It emphasizes foundational understanding of business operations. Key areas include ideation processes, teaching students how to generate and refine new concepts. The program develops problem-solving skills through practical scenarios. It also incorporates leadership development elements. Learning is primarily conducted through a case-based approach, providing relatable examples for younger learners.
Certification and Accreditation
Participants have the option to enhance their achievement with a formal certification. This involves opting for a certification examination. A nominal fee is charged for taking this exam. Upon successful completion of the examination, candidates receive a performance grade certificate. This certificate is officially issued by IIT Madras Pravartak, lending credibility to the acquired skills.
About IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation
IITM Pravartak Technologies is registered as a Section 8 Company under Indian law. It operates as the Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) dedicated to Sensors, Networking, Actuators, and Control Systems. This foundation receives its funding directly from the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. The funding is provided under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems. IIT Madras serves as the host institution for IITM Pravartak.
Balamurali Shankar, Chief Knowledge Officer at IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation, provided insight into the initiative. He stated the collaboration with BodhBridge aims to cultivate a new generation of confident, innovative, and socially responsible leaders. Shankar emphasized that entrepreneurship education equips students with a competitive advantage. It prepares them not only to launch new ventures but also to succeed in various professional fields, fostering economic and societal progress.