The program will feature a range of activities, including fireside chats with successful start-up founders, keynote speeches, and panel discussions
As the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024 approaches, the event organizers have announced the second edition of its flagship start-up program, Aspire. This initiative, introduced in the previous edition, garnered significant attention with over 400 start-ups showcasing their innovations. The eighth edition of IMC will take place from 15th to 18th October at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, co-hosted by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI).
This year, Aspire expects participation from over 900 start-ups, which will engage in discussions and demonstrations across various fields, including 5G applications, artificial intelligence (AI), deep technology, electronics, green tech, and telecommunications equipment. Notably, more than 400 start-ups are anticipated to focus on the importance of AI and deep tech.
The program will feature a range of activities, including fireside chats with successful start-up founders, keynote speeches, and panel discussions. These sessions will provide insights and advice from established unicorn founders, sharing their entrepreneurial journeys.
Key highlights of the Aspire program include a 5G and 6G Hackathon organized by WTSA and TCOE, as well as discussions on relevant topics such as investment insights for early-stage ventures and protecting digital assets. The event will also continue successful initiatives from last year, including the STPI LEAP AHEAD program and an investor speed dating session.
Through Aspire, IMC aims to facilitate over 500 one-on-one meetings with around 200 investors. The event will provide dedicated networking opportunities, including zones for personalized interactions with 40 to 50 industry mentors, allowing start-up founders to receive tailored feedback. Additionally, five masterclass sessions will cover topics like AI, cloud technology, and cybersecurity, along with live pitch sessions featuring over 21 start-ups.
Moreover, the program will include reverse pitching, where investors, incubators, and accelerators introduce themselves, helping founders find the right fit for their ventures. In its inaugural edition, Aspire successfully helped three start-ups—Nayan Tech, ParkMate, and Wisedrive—secure funding.
IMC will also conduct Angel Ally Tours to guide attendees through various start-up stalls, showcasing innovations across different sectors. Additionally, the event will collaborate with 50 selected start-ups to enhance their visibility within the IMC ecosystem.
Ramakrishna P., CEO of India Mobile Congress, stated, “The Indian start-up ecosystem, the shining armor of the Indian economy, has elevated the prestige of the country on the global stage through astonishing innovations and contributions across sectors. India now boasts over 128,000 start-ups, becoming the third-largest start-up economy in the world. With its vast global attendee and exhibitor base, Aspire will be a prime platform to provide seamless market access for these start-ups. Now, it is the opportunity for the industry, academia, and the government to collaborate to harness the full potential of the ecosystem and foster a sustainable economy.”
This year’s IMC will also spotlight key subjects such as quantum technology, the circular economy, 5G and 6G use cases, cloud and edge computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), semiconductors, cybersecurity, green tech, satellite communications, and electronics manufacturing. Notable investors from the Indian start-up ecosystem, including IAN Alpha Fund, Trifecta Capital, and JioGenNext, are expected to attend.
