YourStory.in

Before we introduce ourselves, it perhaps is more appropriate to introduce the cause we represent. For a long time, SME's and Start-ups have faced an uphill road in this country; Govt.norms that are SME unfriendly, access to capital both in terms of Debt and Venture Capital which is difficult to come-by and more than anything else a lack of access to other successful entrepreneurs who have learnt along the way and can perhaps mentor younger entrepreneurs on their journey.

During a cup of Coffee in Dec'06, some of us had the same thought and what came out of it was India's first Start-up event - 'Proto.in'. Three years and 6 events later, we've made some steps towards creating that community, 6 events in 3 different cities, showcasing of over 120 of India's best start-ups, partnerships with NASSCOM, Tie and some of the leading software associations across the globe and a total community reach-out of 2000 people across India.

Proto.in, the event is one which brings together Entrepreneurs, Venture Capitalists, Mentors, Technology Enthusiasts and wannabe entrepreneurs all under one roof. The cynosure event is the showcase, where 15 of the best start-ups / SME's in the country are chosen to present their idea to the audience. Some of the benefits for the nominated companies include the following:

Nomination to 'Bootcamp' - This is a one day event where each start-ups are mentored. The two focus areas are 'Business Learning' and 'Soft Skills'. Apart from this the chosen start-up will also spend time 1 on 1 with a mentor.
 

Networking opportunities with investors:  Proto.in attracts some of the world's leading Venture Capitalists and Private Equity firms. They will lend you their ears and eyes during the event.

Customer Validation:  With a large customer base at the event, customers will validate start-ups and their value propositions.
 

Round the year mentoring: Once you're a Proto.in alumni, you join the community of Proto.in which is made up of a no. of events like Open Coffee Clubs, Start-up Chat and Start-up Jobs.

Tie Mentoring Program: All nominated start-ups get a kickstart into Tie's Mentoring Program.

Proto.in is scheduled for July 25th with all nominations ending on July 1st. Nominate yourself for Proto.in by registering yourself on the web-site here: http://www.proto.in/the-event/nominate

Apart from the showcase, the event this time will have the following sub-events:

Proto Conversations  - A conversation between 2 entrepreneurs on a topic of interest.

VC Pitch  -  A unique format where VC's make pitches on the start-up ideas they are seeking.

Innovation Jam - A unique community format event to acquire ideas from participants.

Log onto the website here: www.proto.in to access information on previous editions, videos of start-ups that have presented and news and updates on the upcoming edition. Proto.in is an event of the Knowledge Founding, join us on our entrepreneurial journey.