A Transformative Journey: Tellmate at The Economic Times – Power of Ideas
In 2015, my entrepreneurial journey with Tellmate took a significant leap. I applied to The Economic Times Power of Ideas program. The idea aimed to assist visually impaired people. Out of nearly 19,750 entries, Tellmate was selected among the top 75 teams.
The selection process began with an intensive pitch session at IIM Ahmedabad. I presented our vision to help the blind. The judges were impressed, and our idea was chosen for a 10-day workshop. This workshop was a turning point.
At IIM Ahmedabad, I received invaluable training. We worked with the Center for Innovation Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE). Experts helped us refine our business model and strategy. This environment was full of innovative minds, which sparked many ideas and collaborations.
The support didn’t stop there. We also received a grant award of ₹200,000. This funding was crucial for developing our prototype. Our team worked tirelessly to bring our vision to life. We improved our proof of concept for a wearable device that converts visual data into audio signals. This concept aimed to provide greater independence to the visually impaired.
The 10-day workshop was intensive. It involved long hours and a lot of hard work. We focused on refining our product and business model. The training sessions covered various aspects of entrepreneurship. These included market analysis, business planning, and financial management. The guidance from CIIE and interaction with other startups were invaluable. Here are some snapshots of my business model at that point of time:
During this period, we officially registered Tellmate Helper Private Limited. This marked the beginning of a new chapter. The formalization of our company gave us a stronger foundation. It was a significant milestone in our journey.
The recognition from The Economic Times Power of Ideas was a game-changer. It validated our efforts and innovative approach. This accolade provided us with the credibility we needed. It opened doors to further opportunities and collaborations.
Looking back, the experience at The Economic Times Power of Ideas was transformative. It was a journey filled with learning, growth, and invaluable support. The mentorship and resources we received played a critical role in shaping Tellmate. This journey taught me a lot about resilience, innovation, and the power of collaboration.
The Economic Times Power of Ideas program was more than just a competition. It was a platform that nurtured our entrepreneurial spirit. It helped us turn an idea into a solid prototype. This experience was a crucial stepping stone in my entrepreneurial journey.
My journey with Tellmate at The Economic Times Power of Ideas was filled with hard work and invaluable support. It shaped my approach to innovation and entrepreneurship, reinforcing my commitment to making a difference through technology.