Hyderabad, India — The International Startup Festival (ISF) 2024 kicked off today at the Engineering Staff College, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from around the world. The event aims to promote new ideas, encourage networking, and help startups grow.
Mr. Jayesh Rajan, the Special Chief Secretary of the Industries & Commerce and Information Technology Departments in Telangana, welcomed the attendees. He congratulated the organizers for hosting the festival in Hyderabad, which has become a lively hub for startups. “We are excited to see so many unlisted startups getting support from mentors and investors here,” he said.
Also present at the event were Suresh Kumar Shetkar, Member of Parliament for Zahirabad, and J.A. Chowdary, Founder of the International Startup Foundation, along with other notable guests, including industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs.
Rajan reflected on the challenges startups have faced in the past, noting that many would give up and return to regular jobs. “However, we’ve learned that with the right support, startups can succeed,” he emphasized.
He also highlighted the growth of the startup ecosystem in Telangana, stating that when the state was formed ten years ago, there were only about 350 startups. “Now, we have over 6,500 startups and more than 70 innovation centers,” he added.
The festival not only showcases new ideas but also fosters important partnerships. During the event, several agreements were signed with women entrepreneurs and leaders in the life sciences sector, promoting inclusivity and support for diverse businesses.
As ISF 2024 continues, participants are excited to connect, share ideas, and find new opportunities for their startups, making Hyderabad an important place for entrepreneurship.
