Unveiling the “Skill to Enterprise Model”: A Transformative Joint Initiative by SIDBI and Symbiosis Skills and Professional University

PUNE: Symbiosis Skills and Professional University (SSPU) today inaugurated the Launchpad 30: Swavalamban Skill to Enterprise Model (STEM) Certification and Incubation Program. This unique initiative aims to nurture aspiring entrepreneurs in Maharashtra by providing them with essential skills, mentorship, and resources to transform their innovative ideas into successful ventures. The event took place at the Kiwale campus of SSPU, marking the beginning of a transformative journey for 30 selected participants.

During the inaugural program, Dr. Swati Mujumdar, Pro-Chancellor of SSPU,  emphasized that the STEM program is not just a training course but a mission for SSPU to actively contribute to the entrepreneurial ecosystem of Maharashtra. She also spoke about the commitment by SSPU to providing continuous mentorship and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship among students of diverse backgrounds and age groups.

Mr. Anjani Kumar Srivastava, General Manager and Regional In-charge of SIDBI delivered an inspiring address, congratulating the 30 selected participants. He praised SSPU for its proactive approach to developing entrepreneurship and emphasized the importance of such initiatives in creating sustainable businesses that contribute to economic growth. He said that The Launchpad 30 program is a great step towards nurturing talent and fostering innovation in Maharashtra,”  Dr. Rajesh Ingle, Vice Chancellor of SSPU, was also present during the event.

The selection process for Launchpad 30 was both comprehensive and rigorous. Applicants underwent an Entrepreneurship Acumen Detection Test (EADT) followed by interviews to assess their entrepreneurial potential. The selected participants come from diverse educational and professional backgrounds, ranging from recent graduates to individuals with informal businesses in their early stages. Their ages vary from 20 to 40 years, reflecting the program’s wide appeal.

The 3-month training will be followed by a year-long incubation support, where participants will have access to resources, networking opportunities, and expert guidance. This combination of training, mentoring, and funding aims to give participants the best possible chance of building successful, sustainable enterprises.

The Launchpad 30 program offers free training, including meals and hostel accommodation for participants. In addition, the program provides hands-on mentorship and guidance to help them develop viable business plans and navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. Successful ventures emerging from the program will receive a seed funding amount of Rs. 30,000 to kickstart their businesses.

This initiative reflects SSPU’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, creating a new generation of business leaders who will contribute to the growth of the Country’s economy.