Jammu : To create an enabling environment for transforming informal businesses into formal enterprises across identified locations, IIM Jammu, under the leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, partnered with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, and Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce (DICCI) to establish 22 Small Business Development Units (SBDUs) in the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Under this project, the SBDUs will strengthen institutions to deliver quality initiatives for entrepreneurship development across identified locations. Dr. Mahesh Gadekar is the Chairperson of Small Business Development Units at IIM Jammu.
In a collaborative effort to foster innovation and entrepreneurial spirit among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, a one-day Ideathon and workshop was organized at SBDU, Centre at Govt. Polytechnic for Women, Shakti Nagar, Jammu on 12th Sept 2024. The event saw enthusiastic participation from individuals representing various districts across Jammu. The event marked the formal inauguration of the SBDU Jammu by Chief Guest Shri Om PrakashBhagat, JKAS, Director, Skill Development, Govt. of Jammu and Kashmir. The Guest of Honor on the occasion ShriArun Kumar Manhas, JKAS, Director, Director, Industries & Commerce, Govt. of J&K. The Ideathon and workshop at SBDU at Govt. Polytechnic for Women, Shakti Nagar, Jammu saw enthusiastic participation from 60 individuals from domains of Bamboo art, Basoli Art collective, Fashion, Agripreneurship& Dairy.
Throughout the Ideathon, the IIM Jammu incubator team provided crucial guidance on grants, seed funds, and mentor connectivity, equipping participants with actionable insights essential for securing funding and mentorship—key factors for startup success. The vote of thanks was proposed by Prof SeemaPandita., Govt Polytechnic Jammu. This Ideathon was the fourth of five events planned by IIM Jammu under the SBDU Program, following the first held at SBDU Srinagar on 02nd Sept 2024. These initiatives aim to inspire grassroots entrepreneurship across Jammu & Kashmir, providing the tools and knowledge needed to turn ideas into sustainable ventures.
The event provided a unique platform for participants to showcase their ideas, receive expert feedback, and explore opportunities for further capacity building and business incubation. The Capacity Building Program on Small Business Development Units by IIM Jammu sets the stage for transformative growth, empowering aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to realize their dreams and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the nation.
