Navigating Entrepreneurship:
The I-NDUCT Program at GDC

5 June - Blog

Curious about diving into the startup world? Discover how GDC’s transformative program equips STEM researchers and students with essential skills for entrepreneurial success. Read more for insights into bridging the gap between aspiration and reality

Are you a researcher or student at a crossroads, uncertain about your career path and intrigued by the buzz around entrepreneurship? Perhaps you’re pondering whether diving into the startup world is the right fit for you. It’s a big question, and one that deserves thoughtful consideration. In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, entrepreneurship has become more than just a career choice—it’s a mindset, a lifestyle, and a journey of self-discovery. However, the allure of entrepreneurship often masks the complexities and challenges that accompany building a successful venture.

Recognizing this disparity between aspiration and reality, the Gopalakrishnan-Deshpande Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (GDC) at IIT Madras has pioneered the I-NDUCT program, tailored to equip STEM researchers and students with the essential skills and mindset needed to navigate the entrepreneurial journey.

Many students and researchers leap into entrepreneurship without fully comprehending its intricacies. While their technical expertise is commendable, they often lack the business acumen and strategic thinking crucial for startup success. The I-NDUCT program aims to bridge it by instilling in participants a holistic understanding of entrepreneurship and business fundamentals, aligning their technical skills with the demands of the startup landscape.

The program, spanning four weeks of immersive learning, serves as a transformative experience for aspiring entrepreneurs. Participants delve into the nuances of startup dynamics, exploring concepts such as entrepreneurial mindset, business acumen, and organizational building skills. Through experiential learning modules, they confront their motivations, anxieties, and emotions, gaining invaluable insights into the realities of startup life.

Central to the I-NDUCT program is its focus on nurturing entrepreneurial instincts and enhancing business acumen. By dissecting real-world case studies and engaging in hands-on exercises, participants emerge equipped to assess the viability of their startup ideas and navigate the complexities of the entrepreneurial landscape.

The program caters to diverse teams, comprising faculty members eager to commercialize lab-developed technologies alongside researchers and students keen on entrepreneurial pursuits. Guided by expert mentors, these teams embark on a transformative journey, honing their entrepreneurial skills and refining their business propositions.

GDC’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent was evident in the recent Cohort 06 of the I-NDUCT program, held from January to February 2024. Teams from Mahindra University, Hyderabad, comprising 21 entrepreneur leads and 9 faculty members, embarked on a transformative journey towards startup success. The program culminated in a grand finale event at the Mahindra University campus, where participants showcased their innovative ideas and entrepreneurial aspirations.

During the event, Mr. Raghuttama Rao, CEO of GDC, shared invaluable insights on the commercialization of research, underscoring the program’s impact in fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within academia.

As GDC continues to spearhead initiatives aimed at nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders, the I-NDUCT program stands as a symbol of empowerment, empowering participants to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys with confidence and clarity.

Discover how you can join the I-NDUCT Program and embark on your own path to success! – Click here.