In a groundbreaking event in the Indian sports industry, seven sports startup companies have made it to the finals of the Pitchbook Competition. This contest is part of the inaugural Gujarat Sports Startup Conclave, which will take place on December 11 at TransStadia University, Ahmedabad.
The Conclave saw an overwhelming response, with over 60 prominent sports startups registering before the deadline on December 02, 2023.
Massive response to Gujarat Sports Startup Pitchbook Competition; seven startups shortlisted for the grand finale: Sports Minister Harsh Sanghavi
The growth of India’s sports industry on the global stage has been remarkable. It isn’t just about athletic competitions anymore; it’s a thriving economic sector with vast potential. Much of this evolution can be attributed to our esteemed Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji. His unwavering enthusiasm and support for our athletes have been instrumental.
The Gujarat Sports Startup Conclave, part of the Vibrant Gujarat initiative, symbolizes our commitment to improve the sports ecosystem. We aim to attract investments, stimulate economic growth, and establish Gujarat as a significant hub for business and trade,” stated Shri Harsh Sanghavi, Minister of State Gujarat – Home, Industries Transport, Youth, Sports, and MLA of Surat.
The Sports Authority of Gujarat, in collaboration with TransStadia University and Sportscom Industry Confederation, and supported by Startup India and i-Hub, are organizing the Conclave. These strong incubators have been partnering with the Gujarat Government to foster ‘Next Generation Entrepreneurship’.
The conclave will serve as a platform where sports and business intersect, aligning with the Government of Gujarat’s vision for the growth of sports in India. It will highlight outstanding achievements in the country’s sports business landscape. The event aims to showcase India’s potential as a sports powerhouse while strengthening the startup economy and promoting the development of sports in Gujarat and across India. It also seeks to inspire young people to tap into the immense business opportunities in the sports market.
The jury, including Shri Nagarajan M (IAS, Collector, Mehsana), Shri R.S. Ninama (IAS, Director General, Sports Authority of Gujarat), Shri Saumil Majmudar (Co-founder, Managing Director & CEO, Sportz Village), Shri Rishikesh Joshi (Founder, Sports for All), and 2 representatives from i-Hub, have shortlisted seven startups after thoroughly evaluating all applicants.
These finalists will present their business ideas and products to an esteemed panel of judges in the Pitchbook Competition on December 11, 2023. The top three startups will receive cash prizes of INR 10 lacs, INR 7 lacs, and INR 4 lacs, respectively. The remaining four startups will each receive a consolation prize of INR 1 lac. In addition to the cash prize, they will also have the opportunity to receive mentorship from industry experts.
Furthermore, the top 15 startups chosen by the jury members will get a free stall to showcase their products and ideas during the Exhibition held alongside the Gujarat Sports Startup Conclave.
The Hon’ble Sports Minister concluded by saying, “We aim to acknowledge and inspire sports startups through our unique Pitchbook Competition, and I am delighted at the response we have received.”
