GLOBIVOX

TiE Bhubaneswar, in association with Startup Odisha, organised ‘Open Mic Connect’, an interactive networking event aimed at strengthening the startup ecosystem in the state. The programme was held at the Odisha Startup Incubation Centre (O-Hub) in Chandaka Industrial Estate, Bhubaneswar, bringing together entrepreneurs, innovators and industry experts on a common platform.

The event provided budding founders and early-stage startups an opportunity to share their ideas, challenges and growth plans directly with experienced leaders and policymakers. Senior government officials and startup mentors interacted with participants, offering guidance on innovation, scalability, funding opportunities and policy support available in Odisha.

Speaking at the event, the dignitaries highlighted the importance of collaboration, knowledge exchange and market-driven innovation for sustainable startup growth. They emphasised that platforms like Open Mic Connect play a crucial role in encouraging entrepreneurship by creating direct dialogue between startups and ecosystem enablers.

Participants actively engaged in discussions, pitching concepts, seeking feedback and exploring potential partnerships. The open-floor format encouraged candid conversations, allowing entrepreneurs to gain insights from real-world experiences of successful startup leaders.

TiE Bhubaneswar reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship through regular mentoring sessions, networking events and knowledge-sharing initiatives. The collaboration with Startup Odisha continues to strengthen the state’s position as an emerging hub for innovation and startup development.

TiE Bhubaneswar, in collaboration with Startup Odisha, hosted ‘Open Mic Connect’, a dynamic networking and knowledge-sharing programme aimed at empowering startups and aspiring entrepreneurs across Odisha. The event took place at the Odisha Startup Incubation Centre (O-Hub) in Chandaka Industrial Estate, Bhubaneswar, and witnessed enthusiastic participation from the startup community.

The interactive session provided a unique platform for entrepreneurs to openly present their ideas, business models and challenges before a panel of experienced leaders and government representatives. The initiative was designed to promote innovation-driven entrepreneurship while encouraging meaningful engagement between startups and ecosystem stakeholders.

Senior officials and industry leaders addressed participants, underlining the state government’s continued support for startups through policy incentives, incubation facilities and mentorship programmes. They encouraged founders to focus on problem-solving innovations, scalability and sustainable growth while leveraging Odisha’s growing startup infrastructure.

During the open mic segment, several founders shared their entrepreneurial journeys, highlighting both opportunities and challenges faced during early-stage growth. Experts offered constructive feedback, strategic inputs and practical suggestions to help startups refine their ideas and strengthen market readiness.

The event also served as a valuable networking opportunity, enabling participants to connect with mentors, investors and fellow entrepreneurs. Informal interactions helped foster collaboration, potential partnerships and knowledge exchange across diverse sectors.

TiE Bhubaneswar reiterated its mission to build a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem by creating regular platforms for dialogue, mentorship and learning. The organisation emphasised that initiatives like Open Mic Connect are instrumental in nurturing innovation, building confidence among founders and accelerating startup growth in the region.

With continued collaboration between TiE Bhubaneswar and Startup Odisha, such initiatives are expected to further position Bhubaneswar as an emerging startup and innovation hub in eastern India.