A one-day startup event titled “Startup Premier League” was organized by the Institutional Innovation Council (IIC) in collaboration with the Centre for Incubation, Consultancy & Entrepreneurship (CICE) of St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata, in association with Techaarohan Bharat Foundation (Startup Ki Pathshala). The event aimed to provide a dynamic platform for students and aspiring entrepreneurs to explore innovative ideas, strengthen their entrepreneurial mindset, and foster collaboration across institutions.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation forming teams from various education institutions in and around Newtown and Salt Lake, including St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata.

About the Programme: A one-day startup event titled “Startup Premier League” commenced with the Lighting of the Lamp, followed by a welcome address by Professor Soma Sur, Hony. Director, LCERI & President, IIC. The inaugural address was delivered by Rev. Dr. John Felix Raj, S.J., Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, highlighting the significance of entrepreneurship and innovation in nation-building. This was followed by the Felicitation of Guests by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor and Registrar. The Keynote Address was delivered by Dr. Debasish Ghosh, Head, Technology Business Development & Incubation, Indian Statistical Institute, focusing on fostering a startup ecosystem and supporting early-stage innovators. Dr. Arnab Basu, Co-Founder & CEO, Yancha Positive Parenting LLP, discussed the importance of mentorship and perseverance in entrepreneurship and provided an overview of the programme.

The Discovery Round Pitching Sessions allowed participating teams to present their startup ideas before a panel of successful entrepreneurs. The jury provided constructive feedback on market feasibility, innovation, and business model scalability.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Mr. Prabhat Das of Techaarohan Bharat Foundation (Startup Ki Pathshala), who highlighted the upcoming phases aimed at nurturing innovative ideas and transforming them into viable ventures. The jury members appreciated the best three ideas, followed by a Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Somnath Banerjee, IIC Convenor and Associate Professor, Department of Commerce and Management, St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata, formally marking the close of the event.

Feedback: The “Startup Premier League” successfully ignited the young minds of nine teams from our university, fostering collaboration and strengthening the academic startup ecosystem, thereby showcasing the university’s commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and skill development.

Professor Soma Sur

President, IIC & Hony. Director, LCERI

Dr. Monalika Dey

Professor-in-Charge, CICE & Startup Activity Coordinator, IIC