Wednesday, December 21, 2016

Catapooolt Changemakers Challenge Season 2

Most of the youngsters these days dream of becoming the next Zuckerberg or Tata. They have just the idea to get them there. A million dollar idea, which is going to catapult them and their brand into a popular, money vending enterprise. They brainstorm with friends, make exhaustive and elaborate plans that will govern each step of their startup journey.

Yet, they begin facing roadblocks right from the moment they start. The first major hurdle is funding. They struggle to set up the funds and are often tempted to quit when funds don't materialize. Many startups hence face an early death. Crowdfunding is a popular choice for funding these days. Many startups have succeeded to raise money by crowdfunding. 

 Getting discovered by the customers is another major hurdle. Reaching out to customers call for clever marketing strategies which again requires investment. People find it easy to believe in their old trusted brands than invest their time and money in a startup, which is still in its toddler stage. It is an instinctive reaction. I might get distracted for a while by a new product that promises everything I wished for but eventually, I would go with my old favorite brand. But if a trusted person seconds the claims made by the new product, I might change my mind. That is where the media plays its role.

 You have begun something, which you strongly believe in, yet you have to face all the major roadblocks like every other new entrepreneur. That is a given. But, what if you get a chance to pitch your idea on a platform, which offers you exposure to early adopters, customers, media, and a possible angel investor? If you are a promising startup in an initial stage and you are getting lost in the crowd of early startups in India, here is your chance to chase your dreams of becoming a change maker.

 Enter the Catapooolt Changemakers Challenge Season 2 presented by the Economic times and reach for the stars. Get discovered in a major way. It is India's own unique crowd funding powered hunt for innovative early stage start-ups. Over eight hundred plus investors and more than fifty startup ecosystem partners support it.

 Here is a short video about it.

   

The first phase of the challenge where you can submit your ideas starts from 5th December 2016.

 In the second phase, which begins on 15th January 2017, there will be a live crowdfunding campaign engaging communities, getting market validation, and initial funding. 

In the third phase, on 28 February 2017, Expert Mentor board and Innovation Partners would announce the top 40 disruptive innovations based on crowdfunding amount raised and disruption potential. 

 In the fourth and final stage, the top 40 will be invited to pitch to marquee angel funds at an offline event, the Grand Finale on 31 March 2017. They get to meet some of the biggest start-up gurus. 

 So if you have a startup and is struggling to be discovered, this platform is for you.

 All the best in advance.

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