PAST HIGHLIGHT

2015

Meraki 2015: What’s Your Big Idea?

FIIB’s annual Business Plan Competition, Meraki, continues to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among students, offering a platform to transform bright ideas into viable ventures. The 4th edition of Meraki, held in January 2015, attracted 182 teams from prestigious institutions, including international participants, competing for top honours.

Highlights of Meraki 2015

An International Platform for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Meraki provides budding entrepreneurs with the opportunity to present their ideas to industry leaders and venture capitalists. It bridges the gap between creativity and practical execution through mentorship, guidance, and funding.

  • Participation: Teams from SRCC (University of Delhi), IIT Delhi, KIIT University, IIFM Bhopal, and international colleges.
  • Judging Panel: Representatives from Mayfield, Capital18, AsiaBridge Capital, and Lightspeed Venture Partners.

Key Activities and Outcomes

  1. Semi-Final Presentations:
    The top 12 teams presented their plans to a distinguished jury in a rigorous evaluation round.
  2. Workshop:
    Anshoo Sharma, Principal at Lightspeed Venture Partners, conducted an insightful session on “Tips for Budding Entrepreneurs” to guide participants in refining and incubating their business ideas.
  3. Winners:
    • 1st Prize: Team Pocket Ad from SRCC, University of Delhi (₹1,50,000).
    • 2nd Prize: Team Leaf from IIT Delhi.

Participants commended Meraki for impartial judgment, practical feedback, and valuable connections that enhanced their entrepreneurial journey.

What Makes Meraki Special?

A Launchpad for Success

Meraki enables participants to:

  • Define their ideas in commercial terms.
  • Gain mentorship from industry veterans.
  • Compete for significant cash prizes to fund their ventures.

Student Testimonials

  • Team Pocket Ad (Winner):
    “Seeing our idea appreciated by eminent venture capitalists was unmatched encouragement!”
  • Team from IIFM Bhopal:
    “The impartial judgment and valuable inputs made Meraki a truly enriching experience.”
  • KIIT University Participants:
    “Meraki provided the right direction and support to refine our business framework.”

FIIB and Udaan: Shaping Future Leaders

  • Meraki is an initiative of Udaan – FIIB’s Entrepreneurship Cell, which strives to:

    • Cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset among students.
    • Bridge the gap between industry and academia.
    • Provide a platform for creating commercially viable, sustainable ventures.

    With each edition, Meraki continues to elevate its impact, encouraging students to push boundaries and turn their dreams into reality.