Atria University, an upcoming University backed by South-India based business conglomerate – Atria Group, has launched India’s first Venture Capital Fund Competition for students aged between 16-18 years. The competition, open to students from any academic background, is a rare platform for young, aspiring entrepreneurs to pitch innovative business solutions. The solutions can be in any of the five emerging disciplines: Digital Transformation, Energy Sciences, Interactive Technologies, Mobility, and Sustainable Life Sciences.

Top three entries will get mentorship from industry experts, an induction into Atria University’s Business Incubation Center (ABiC), as well as a cumulative initial commitment of 30 lakhs.

Shortlisted participants will get an opportunity to present ideas to a world-class panel comprising academic and business leaders. Panelists include:

• Ajit Kumar, Country Leader, Deloitte Digital India
• Arjendu Patnaik, Professor of Physics & Former Department Chair, Carleton College
• Jose Estabil, Trustee Emeritus (Sc. B., Sc. M.), Brown University, and Former Director, Entrepreneurship and Innovation at MIT
• Sameer Brij Verma, Managing Director, Nexus Venture Partners

In addition to the VC fund commitment, the best ideas will get support from a fully functional incubation center – ABiC – that will help with all areas including design, prototype, and market launch.

Shaheem Rahiman, Chief Executive Officer at Atria University said, “A new world order is being shaped by technology, design, and innovation today. We want to nurture the next generation to survive, thrive, and find meaning in the new world. At Atria University, students get to craft their unique career pathways while experiencing global, industry-driven learning in a way that puts the students at the center. Innovation and entrepreneurship are core to every Atria University graduate. The Student Venture Fund Competition shows our commitment to invest and nurture future leaders. We are excited to host this unique competition and welcome the groundbreaking ideas that young minds have to offer. With this competition, we aim to provide an exclusive opportunity for students to address and solve the challenges in their surrounding environment and help realize their true potential.”

The Venture Capital Fund Competition 2020 will accept submissions until May 17.  Shortlisted finalists will be announced on May 22. After a presentation to an eclectic group of panelists from academia and industry, the winners will be announced on May 31. Students can know more about the competition and submit their ideas here.

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