Designed to spark innovation and encourage young entrepreneurs to harness their potential, the event was a resounding success, drawing in a diverse group of 50 passionate individuals eager to make a difference while partnering with Bala Vikasa Centre for social and responsible business.

A Gathering of Visionaries

The event served as a platform to create awareness about the Social Impact Award program, which aims to support budding entrepreneurs in transforming their ideas into impactful social ventures. It brought together a stellar lineup of speakers from the Impact Hub global team, along with experts from various domains of entrepreneurship. This convergence of minds provided attendees with invaluable insights into the world of social entrepreneurship and the unique opportunities offered by the SIA program.

Inspiring Keynotes from Global Leaders

The day began with a series of inspiring keynote speeches delivered by esteemed speakers who are at the forefront of social innovation. Mr. Shoury Reddy, a recognized leader in social entrepreneurship, set the tone by sharing his journey and the importance of pursuing meaningful ventures that drive positive change. His words resonated with the audience, igniting a spark of motivation among the young entrepreneurs in attendance.

Following him, Mr. Martin Stoehr, representing the Impact Hub global team, delved into the global perspective of social impact. He emphasized the importance of building a network of changemakers and highlighted the role of the Social Impact Award in nurturing and scaling local innovations on a global stage. His insights into the translocal nature of the program encouraged participants to think beyond borders and envision their ideas reaching international audiences.

Following him, Ms. Marta Kanarkiewicz, Kristina Fursova, and Martin Nicolai from the Impact Hub global team took the stage to provide a comprehensive overview of the Social Impact Award. They highlighted the program’s global presence, showcasing how SIA operates in over 20 countries, empowering young entrepreneurs across various regions. The trio shared examples of successful SIA hosts from around the world, illustrating how different communities have embraced and benefited from the program.
They also presented inspiring success stories of past SIA winners, demonstrating the tangible impact that the program has had on local and global scales. From innovative solutions in sustainable agriculture to groundbreaking social enterprises in education, these stories served as a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within each participant. Their session left the audience with a deeper understanding of SIA’s reach and the immense possibilities it offers to young changemakers.

Dr. Nagaraja Sallagundala, a well-respected figure in the entrepreneurship ecosystem, then took the stage to raise awareness about Impact Hub and its role in empowering social innovators. He provided an overview of Impact Hub’s global network, which connects over 100 communities worldwide dedicated to fostering social change. Dr. Sallagundala emphasized how Impact Hub catalyzes social entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary resources, mentorship, and collaborative spaces to grow their ideas. His speech resonated with the audience, underscoring the importance of being part of a global community that supports and scales impactful solutions.

A Platform for Ideas to Flourish

One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity for participants to pitch their startup ideas. A total of 15 startup ideas were presented, showcasing the diverse range of talents and innovative thinking present in the room. The pitch session provided a glimpse into the future of social entrepreneurship in India, with ideas ranging from sustainable agriculture solutions to tech-driven education platforms. The enthusiastic response from the audience and speakers alike underscored the potential of these ideas to create significant social impact.

Building a Community of Changemakers

The Social Impact Award program is not just about recognizing innovative ideas; it’s about building a community of changemakers who support each other on their entrepreneurial journeys. The event fostered a sense of camaraderie among participants, who were encouraged to collaborate, share knowledge, and grow together. The networking sessions allowed attendees to connect with like-minded individuals and potential mentors, laying the groundwork for future collaborations.

Encouraging the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

As the event concluded, it was clear that the Social Impact Award 2024 had successfully ignited a spark of curiosity and ambition among young entrepreneurs. The enthusiasm in the room was palpable, with participants eager to take the next steps in their entrepreneurial journeys. The SIA program promises to be a catalyst for these young minds, providing them with the resources, mentorship, and global exposure needed to transform their ideas into reality.

Join the Movement

The Social Impact Award program is more than just a competition—it’s a movement that empowers young entrepreneurs to create meaningful change. We encourage all aspiring social innovators to participate in the program, explore their potential, and contribute to building a better future for all. With the support of the SIA community, your ideas can reach new heights and make a lasting impact on society.