Organizing Institutes

CREST- Centre for Research on Start-ups and Risk Financing – Indian Institute of Technology Madras

The Centre for Research on Start-ups and Risk Financing (CREST) at IIT Madras is a pioneering interdisciplinary research initiative dedicated to understanding and advancing the startup ecosystem in India and beyond. With a vision to become a global hub for academic and applied research in entrepreneurship and venture financing, CREST unites experts from management, finance, technology, and policy domains. The center focuses on generating impactful insights across the entire startup lifecycle—from ideation and funding to scaling and exit strategies—with a strong ...emphasis on risk mitigation and innovation. Through high-quality research, policy advocacy, and knowledge dissemination, CREST supports entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and academicians. It collaborates with industry leaders, venture capitalists, government bodies, and international institutions to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world application. By promoting data-driven decision-making and creating tools for startup assessment and financing, CREST plays a crucial role in shaping the future of entrepreneurial growth and innovation in India.

Desai Sethi School of Entrepreneurship (DSSE) – Indian Institute Of Technology Bombay

The Desai Sethi School of Entrepreneurship (DSSE) at IIT Bombay, established in 2014, is dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in entrepreneurship, including a Minor in Entrepreneurship and a PhD in Innovation & Entrepreneurship. DSSE has trained over 4,300 students, mentored 950 individuals, and supported over 100 startups. The school also provides pre-incubation programs like IDEAS and WiE, supporting early-stage ventures with mentoring, workshops, and seed grants. ...In 2025, DSSE opened a new 115,000 sq. ft. building with cutting-edge facilities such as a Makerspace, Design Thinking Studio, and Co-working Labs, enhancing its role in nurturing future entrepreneurs.

Great Lakes Institute of Management

Great Lakes Institute of Management (GLIM) Chennai, established in 2004, is a leading business school known for its industry-focused curriculum and sustainable campus. Located on a 32-acre LEED Platinum-rated campus, it offers a two-year AICTE-approved PGDM program tailored for candidates with under three years of experience. The program is backed by a globally benchmarked curriculum and delivered by a mix of experienced faculty and international visiting professors. GLIM Chennai has a strong placement record, with the PGDM Class of 2024 achieving 100% placement ...and an average salary of ₹15.1 LPA. With state-of-the-art facilities and top recruiters like Deloitte, Amazon, and Accenture, the institute continues to be a top choice for aspiring business leaders

RAMAIAH UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES- Center for Entrepreneursip

The Center for Entrepreneurship at Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences (RUAS) in Bangalore is a dynamic hub dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurial spirit among students, faculty, and aspiring entrepreneurs. With a vision to become a global leader in entrepreneurship education and practice, the center focuses on three core pillars: education, research, and practice. It offers contextually relevant education, promotes high-quality research, and provides hands-on support for new venture creation through mentorship, networking, and competency development. ...RUAS collaborates with esteemed institutions like Babson College, C-CAMP, and IIT Madras's CREST to enhance its offerings. The center also supports aspiring entrepreneurs with undergraduate programs, access to funding, incubation space, and opportunities to engage with successful entrepreneurs. Through these initiatives, the center plays a crucial role in empowering individuals to transform their ideas into impactful ventures and contribute to a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.