IIM Sambalpur partners National SC-ST Hub to promote entrepreneurship
Sambalpur, India – In a significant move to bolster the entrepreneurial spirit among marginalized communities, IIM Sambalpur, one of India’s premier management institutions, has partnered with the National SC-ST Hub, under the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME). This collaboration aims to enhance the entrepreneurship ecosystem for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) entrepreneurs.
Business Accelerator Program Overview
From January 19 to January 24, 2026, IIM Sambalpur hosted a six-day Business Accelerator Program specifically designed for SC-ST entrepreneurs. The program’s primary objective is to build capacity and upskill participants in essential business, financial, and digital skills. This initiative aligns with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Event Highlights
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including:
- Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur
- Sambit Tripathy, Ex-IRS and CMD of Livelihood Alternatives, who served as the Chief Guest
- Dr. Anupam Gayen, Zonal Head of NSIC, who was the Guest of Honour
- Ms. Nibedita Nayak, Former Chairperson of the Odisha State Social Welfare Board, who delivered the keynote address
First Cohort of Participants
The inaugural cohort of the Business Accelerator Program consisted of 25 participants hailing from various states, including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra. This diverse group reflects the program’s commitment to inclusivity and regional representation.
Future Plans
Building on the success of the first cohort, IIM Sambalpur plans to launch a second cohort in February 2026. This upcoming program will offer a comprehensive 72-hour hybrid learning experience, combining virtual weekend sessions with an intensive six-day on-campus module at IIM Sambalpur.
Key Messages from the Inaugural Event
During the event, several key messages were conveyed by the speakers:
Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal
In his address, Prof. Jaiswal emphasized the importance of nurturing responsible leaders with an entrepreneurial mindset. He stated, “Entrepreneurship is not just about creating wealth for oneself; it is about creating value for the nation.” His vision for IIM Sambalpur focuses on empowering individuals to contribute positively to society.
Sambit Tripathy
As the Chief Guest, Sambit Tripathy highlighted the necessity of developing robust business plans and refining ideas. He remarked, “Understanding the fundamentals of what we produce, consume, and how we communicate is essential to excel in entrepreneurship.” His insights aim to equip participants with the tools they need to succeed in their ventures.
Ms. Nibedita Nayak
Ms. Nayak, in her keynote speech, discussed the importance of social welfare in entrepreneurship. She stressed that empowering SC-ST entrepreneurs can lead to broader economic development and social equity. Her experience in social welfare adds a critical dimension to the discussions surrounding entrepreneurship.
Importance of the Initiative
The partnership between IIM Sambalpur and the National SC-ST Hub is a vital step towards fostering entrepreneurship among marginalized communities. By providing targeted training and resources, this initiative aims to:
- Enhance the skills and capabilities of SC-ST entrepreneurs
- Encourage innovation and creativity in business practices
- Facilitate networking opportunities among entrepreneurs
- Promote sustainable business practices in alignment with the UN SDGs
Conclusion
The collaboration between IIM Sambalpur and the National SC-ST Hub represents a significant commitment to empowering SC-ST entrepreneurs in India. By focusing on capacity building and skill development, this initiative not only aims to uplift individuals but also contributes to the broader economic growth and social equity in the country.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest updates as of January 2026.
