Regent Education & Research Foundation’s ‘Nirmiti 2024’ Inspires Aspiring Entrepreneurs

The inaugural edition of 'Nirmiti 2024' - A Startup Conclave, a two-day event hosted by the Regent Education & Research Foundation Group of Institutions (RERFGI) on October 4 and 5, 2024, has established a powerful foundation for future gatherings, setting a benchmark for innovation and entrepreneurship in West Bengal. Aligned with the directives of the Ministry of Education and AICTE, Government of India, this event served as a dynamic platform to foster an entrepreneurial spirit among students, alumni, budding innovators, and young entrepreneurs.

'Nirmiti 2024' attracted an impressive array of participants from 38 colleges and institutions across India, showcasing a rich tapestry of talent and innovation. The participation of investors, banking professionals, government officials, and notable entrepreneurs enriched the experience, creating invaluable networking opportunities and forging essential connections between ideas and their implementation.

The Startup Conclave was marked by a multitude of activities and contests, designed to immerse attendees in the spirit of entrepreneurship. Participants engaged in a three-tiered start-up competition – Beginner (Tier-1), Intermediate (Tier-2), and Advanced (Tier-3)—with a total prize pool of INR 1.7 lakhs. The winners of the competition received INR 50,000, symbolising not just financial support but also recognition for the innovation and dedication exhibited by the start-ups. In addition to the start-up competition, a series of engaging contests such as Code Quest, BizQuiz, Battle of Wits, Echoes of Expression, Frame Fest, and Tech Talk encouraged creativity, strategic thinking, and innovation among participants.

Adding to the event's vibrancy, the Business Hut and Food Plaza featured stalls from reputed brands, offering participants and attendees an opportunity to explore business prospects while indulging in delicious culinary delights.

'Nirmiti 2024' was honoured by the presence of distinguished guests, including Dr Bhavesh Bhatia, a visually impaired entrepreneur and three-time recipient of the President’s National Award, Dipan Sahu, Innovation Director, Ministry of Education, AICTE, Government of India, Dr Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay, Director of ISI, and Dr Chiranjib Bhattacharjee, President of the West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education, among others. Their participation not only inspired attendees but also added immense value to the event. The insights and experiences shared by these luminaries served as a motivational force for the young innovators involved.

Moreover, the involvement of bank professionals, investors, and government officials was instrumental in mentoring participants. Their expert guidance facilitated the translation of entrepreneurial ideas into practical applications, providing critical feedback that would help shape future endeavours.

The first edition of 'Nirmiti 2024' also showcased excellent collaboration with government entities, with representatives from various departments participating to provide a comprehensive view of the support available to start-ups through government initiatives. Nirmiti 2024 has cultivated an ecosystem where young entrepreneurs can flourish, receiving invaluable input from investors, mentors, and industry leaders.

The enthusiasm, energy, and innovation on display during the event have set an inspiring tone for future editions of 'Nirmiti'. With a commitment to nurturing the spirit of entrepreneurship, the organisers look forward to carrying this momentum forward, continuing their mission to develop a thriving start-up ecosystem in West Bengal.