The Sports Authority of Gujarat, in collaboration with TransStadia University and Sportscom Industry Confederation, is leading a sports startup conclave for ‘Next Generation Entrepreneurship,’ backed by Startup India and i-Hub.
Shri Ashwani Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary (I/C) of the Sports Department, shared insights into the conclave’s origins, stemming from an idea introduced during the sports ministers’ conference in Manipur.
The conclave attracted diverse sports startups, spanning analytics, technology, sustainable infrastructure, and wearables. Over 60 startups registered, with eight shortlisted for the pitchbook finale. Winners, selected by seasoned judges, received a cash prize of INR 25 lacs and mentorship.
Shri Ashwani Kumar highlighted the conclave’s genesis, evolving from an idea presented during Manipur’s sports ministers’ conference. The collaborative effort involves government bodies, educational institutions, and industry partners.
In conclusion, the Gujarat Sports Startup Conclave accelerates innovation in sports entrepreneurship, providing startups recognition, financial support, and a platform for collaboration in a competitive industry.
While the Gujarat Sports Startup Conclave is hailed for fostering innovation, skeptics argue it may prioritize glamour over grassroots development, potentially sidelining smaller startups with groundbreaking ideas.
