• IIT Madras Global partners with Ideabaaz to mentor startups in Tier II & III cities.
• 13 IIT-M professors offer deep tech guidance.
• Startup stories reach 200M+ viewers on Zee Network & OTT.

In a major step toward inclusive entrepreneurship, IIT Madras Global has partnered with Ideabaaz, India’s first media integrated startup platform, to boost innovation in Tier II and III cities. This collaboration aims to give aspiring entrepreneurs from smaller towns the tools, guidance, and exposure needed to turn their ideas into successful ventures.

As the knowledge and research partner, IIT Madras Global will bring in 13 expert faculty members to mentor startups, offering deep tech insights and academic expertise. The goal is to bridge the gap between urban and rural innovation, making startup success more accessible across the country.

Ideabaaz offers a unique mix of media, mentorship, investor access, and business services, all in one digital platform. It also hosts a national TV show airing on Zee Network and OTT platforms, which will feature 78 startups across 26 episodes, reaching over 200 million households. This show is designed to make entrepreneurship visible and aspirational across all of India.

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The partnership will also power the Ideabaaz Expo and Dangal, a grassroots innovation fair where rural entrepreneurs pitch ideas at village-level forums. Selected innovators will receive mentorship, funding, and national exposure.

Jeet Wagh, Ideabaaz’s founder, said, “Innovation isn’t limited to metros. We want to show the world that big dreams can come from small towns”.

Thirumalai Madhavnarayan, CEO of IIT Madras Global, added, “This platform connects local talent with global opportunities and aims to create lasting impact.”

Together, the two organizations are working to build a truly inclusive startup ecosystem for India.