JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) Boot Camp Campaign, part of the J&K Startup Idea Challenge, reached Government College for Women (GCW) Parade, Jammu on Wednesday. This was the fourth program in a series of 46 boot camps aimed at nurturing entrepreneurial thinking and startup ideation among students.
The session was conducted by a three-member team from JKEDI, including Zahid Ali, Project Manager; Rajesh Kumar Kotwal, District Nodal Officer, JKEDI Jammu; and Sorab Mengi, Assistant Manager.
Around 100 students participated in the boot camp, reflecting a strong interest in entrepreneurship. Thirteen participants pitched their startup ideas to a panel of experts, and after rigorous evaluation, seven innovative ideas were shortlisted for the next rounds. The panel appreciated the creativity of the students and provided constructive feedback, concluding the session with an interactive discussion that offered valuable insights and encouragement.
The J&K Startup Idea Challenge was inaugurated on July 10 by the Deputy Chief Minister of J&K at a Startup and Entrepreneurship Meet at JKEDI. In line with the J&K Startup Policy 2024–27, the initiative will span all districts of the UT through 46 boot camps and multiple workshops under the guidance of the JKEDI Director.
Shortlisted participants will receive intensive mentoring and pitch training at JKEDI’s Pampore and Bari Brahmana campuses before competing in the Grand Finale, where the top 20 ideas will be presented to a jury of industry experts, investors, and policymakers. Winners will receive prizes, incentives, and incubation support at JKEDI and partner incubators across J&K.
In total, 46 boot camps will be conducted across colleges and universities in the UT. Additionally, two major workshops and two intensive boot camps at Pampore and Bari Brahmana will provide focused mentoring, pitch training, and business model refinement for shortlisted participants. The initiative will culminate in the Grand Finale, showcasing the top 20 ideas to a distinguished jury, with winners awarded prizes, incentives, and incubation opportunities.
