TiE-ISB Connect 2008 to feature 6 new tracks

Hyderabad, Oct 30: The Fourth edition of TiE-ISB Connect slated to be held at the Indian School of Business (ISB) Campus in Hyderabad from Nov 5 to 7 will feature 6 new tracks, powerful keynote speeches and 30 new business ideas. The theme for this year TiE-ISB Connect is to tap the 'The Next 800 million Opportunity' and review the overall economic growth patterns; compare with the developed nations and explore the possible models for India.

The eminent keynote speakers during the 3day event are David Kayle, Acumen Fund, Y C Deveshwar, ITC and Bijou Kurien, Reliance Retail. The six new tracks lined up for the event will focus on agriculture and agri-processing: present and future potential, manufacturing, energy, infrastructure and urbanization, health care, education and training, in addition to retail.

Speaking on the importance of the theme, Ajit Rangnekar, Deputy Dean, ISB, said, "The ISB has focused its efforts on creating totally new Emerging Market Solutions that will generate benefits and wealth for the 800 million. We believe this to also provide terrific opportunities for entrepreneurs."

J A Chowdary, President of TiE, Hyderabad Chapter said, TiE-ISB Connect has been successful in providing many aspirants who came with the vision of realizing their entrepreneurial dream, a purposeful destination to turn idea into reality. Our mission, he said is to play a key role in bringing Bright Ideas and Cool Start ups to accomplish their journey and find ways to encourage, the spirit of entrepreneurship.

TiE-ISB Connect 2008 received 149 executive summaries out of which 112 were received under the Bright Ideas category and 37 under the Cool Start Ups Category, out of which 30 were shortlisted. The Business plan showcase this year attracted over 200 business plans under the Bright Ideas and Cool Start-ups categories.

Explaining the need for such a platform, Dr Krishna Tanuku, Executive Director, WCED, said, "We need more community based support for entrepreneurship rather than individual. Events such as the TiE- ISB Connect play a key role in strengthening the community support for entrepreneurship."

The event will also feature workshop on Jumpstart your venture, VC Connect and a special panel discussion on "Taking India Forward".

TiE-ISB Connect 2008 event is supported by TOTEM Infrastructure, Sun STARTUP ESSENTIALS, SATYAM, INDU Group, and Microsoft Startup Accelerator Program.

TiE-ISB Connect is jointly organised by Wadhwani Center for Entrepreneurship Development (WCED) and The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), Hyderabad chapter.

ANI