IIT Madras Launches Free Online Entrepreneurship Training for School and College Students
In an inspiring initiative to nurture India’s future innovators, IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation, in collaboration with BodhBridge Education, has launched two free entrepreneurship training programs targeting school and college students as well as working professionals.
These programs aim to fill a crucial gap in India's educational ecosystem by making structured, practical entrepreneurship education accessible to students from Class 7 to postgraduates, entirely free of cost.
The first batch begins on November 1, 2025, with the last date to register being October 28. Interested students and professionals can enrol for free at: bodhbridge.iitmpravartak.org.in
Two Distinct Tracks: Tailored for Age and Experience
The initiative includes two separate online programs to suit different educational levels:
1. “From Students to Startups”
Target Group: College students (UG/PG) and working professionals
Mode: Live online + recorded sessions
Cost: Free (with optional certification fee)
This comprehensive program is designed to help college students and early-career professionals understand the entire entrepreneurial journey, from identifying a problem to launching a viable business. Core topics include:
- Problem Identification & Validation
- Business Modeling
- Market Research
- Fundraising and Funding Models
- Legal and Compliance Aspects
- Digital Marketing & Customer Acquisition
Participants will learn through live interactive sessions, real-world case studies, and curated course materials. Recordings of all sessions will also be available for later access.
2. “Discover the Entrepreneur in You”
Target Group: School students (Classes 7 to 12)
Mode: Live online + recorded content
Cost: Free (with optional certification fee)
This foundational course introduces young students to the world of entrepreneurship in an engaging and age-appropriate way. Through storytelling, examples, and hands-on problem-solving, students will develop:
- Creative Thinking
- Problem-Solving Techniques
- Team Leadership
- Basic Business Acumen
The aim is to plant the seeds of innovation early, making students more confident, resourceful, and entrepreneurial in mindset.
Optional Certification for Added Recognition
While the courses themselves are free, students can opt in for a certification exam by paying a nominal fee. Those who pass will receive a performance grade certificate from IITM Pravartak—a significant credential for future academic or professional pursuits.
Why This Initiative Matters
According to the official statement from IIT Madras Pravartak, India is currently witnessing unprecedented growth in startups and innovation, yet structured exposure to entrepreneurship education remains limited, especially at the school level.
The programs are designed to bridge this gap by equipping students with future-ready skills such as:
- Creative and Critical Thinking
- Leadership and Teamwork
- Resilience and Risk-Taking
- Innovation and Adaptability
These are not just relevant for launching businesses—they're essential life skills that enhance employability and personal growth across careers.
Vision Behind the Initiative
Balamurali Shankar, Chief Knowledge Officer at IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation, emphasized the long-term goal of building a generation of confident, innovative, and socially responsible leaders.
“Entrepreneurship education helps students gain a competitive advantage in life and career. It fosters resilience, confidence, and purpose. Students trained in entrepreneurship are more likely to start businesses in the future, contributing to economic growth and societal progress,” he said.
He added that these programs are meant not just to teach students how to build startups but also to empower them to succeed in any professional field.
Continuous Learning: Monthly Batches to Keep the Momentum Going
Importantly, this is not a one-time offering. The training programs will run every month, allowing students across India to participate at their convenience. Whether you're in school, college, or already working, there will always be an upcoming batch available to join.
This recurring format ensures wider access, sustained impact, and long-term scalability—key goals for IIT Madras Pravartak and BodhBridge as they work to build a more entrepreneurial India from the ground up.
How to Register
Interested students and professionals can sign up for free through the official website:
🔗 bodhbridge.iitmpravartak.org.in
📅 Registration Deadline: October 28, 2025
📆 Program Start Date: November 1, 2025
Conclusion
At a time when innovation, adaptability, and entrepreneurial thinking are more crucial than ever, IIT Madras and BodhBridge’s joint initiative offers free access to world-class training that could change the life trajectory of thousands of students across India.
If you’re a student or a young professional with a dream to lead, build, or innovate—this is your chance to get started.
No fees, no barriers—just opportunity.
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