Ideas are plentiful. But turning an idea into something real, building a prototype, testing it in the market, and making the first sale requires persistence, teamwork, and grit. When we look at the data from Udhyam’s Youth Business Projects across states like Madhya Pradesh and Delhi, one pattern stands out clearly: all-female teams are more likely to complete the full entrepreneurial journey.

Strong participation from young women

In FY24–25, 771,468 students enrolled in Youth Business Projects. Of these, 408,993 were girls and 362,475 were boys, showing strong participation from young women across classrooms.

Participation is the first step. But what happens after students enter the program tells a more interesting story.

The finish line matters

Across states, girls’ teams consistently show a higher propensity to complete the full learning and doing journey. From team formation and ideation to business pitch presentations, prototype creation, and actual sales, all-female teams are more likely to stay the course.

In Madhya Pradesh, data from the program funnel shows that female teams are more likely to move through each stage of the entrepreneurial journey, from forming teams to submitting business pitches.

In Delhi, the pattern becomes even clearer. Girls’ teams demonstrate higher completion rates across key milestones, including presenting their business pitch, building a working prototype, and conducting real sales.

In other words, young women are not just participating in entrepreneurship programs. They are finishing what they start.

Mindset shifts that support execution

The difference also appears in shifts in entrepreneurial mindset.

In Delhi, 53% of girls showed a positive shift in grit compared to 47% of boys, while 52% of girls demonstrated an increase in self-efficacy compared to 48% of boys.

In Uttarakhand, the pattern is similar. 46% of girls showed a positive shift in grit compared to 38% of boys, and 52% of girls showed improvements in self-efficacy compared to 48% of boys.

These shifts matter. Grit and self-belief are essential traits for entrepreneurship, especially when young people face the uncertainty of building something new.

What girls choose to build

There are also interesting differences in the types of businesses students choose.

Girls are more likely to build ventures in art and craft or food-based businesses, while boys tend to explore technology and personal care businesses. Despite these differences in sectors, female teams consistently demonstrate strong follow-through across the entrepreneurial process.

Why this matters

For many young people, especially first-generation learners, entrepreneurship education is not just about business. It is about learning to take initiative, solve problems, and persist through challenges.

When young women show higher completion rates across the entrepreneurial journey, it highlights something important: given the opportunity and the right environment, girls demonstrate remarkable consistency and determination in turning ideas into action.

Celebrating the finishers

This Women’s Day, we celebrate these finishers.

The young women who move from idea to action.
The teams that stay committed through every stage of the journey.
And the students who remind us that the true power of entrepreneurship lies not only in dreaming up ideas, but in having the grit to make them real.

The post The Finishers: Why All-Female Teams Are More Likely to Complete the Entrepreneurial Journey appeared first on Udhyam.

The India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi brought together governments, researchers, funders, and technology leaders to examine one central question: how can AI move from promise to real public impact?

For Udhyam Learning Foundation, this was not a hypothetical conversation.

Udhyam arrived at the Summit with Udhyam Saathi, our AI mentor already active in classrooms across India. A system supporting over 350,000 students, working with 25,000 teachers, processing more than 200,000 student submissions in just four months, and operating in five languages.

What unfolded over the week placed that work in three distinct but connected conversations.

Real-World AI Casebook: Recognition for What Is Already Working

One of the defining moments of the Summit was the launch of the Casebook on Real-World Impact of AI in Education. Out of more than 270 global applications, 36 AI solutions were selected for inclusion. Udhyam Saathi was one of them.

This casebook focused on solutions that are not theoretical models or early pilots. It documented AI tools that are already functioning inside real systems.

Udhyam Saathi was featured because of how it operates at scale within public education. Students submit their work through WhatsApp in text, image, or video formats. Saathi responds with structured guidance designed to help them think deeper and refine their ideas. Teachers access a web interface that helps them see patterns and progress without manually reviewing every submission.

South X South Dialogue: AI Designed for the Realities of the Global South

Udhyam was invited to attend the Summit’s South X South dialogue, an event focused on cooperation across the Global South in deploying AI for public good.

The broader Summit conversations emphasised inclusive digital public infrastructure and scalable systems. Among prominent voices at the Summit was Nandan Nilekani, Co-Founder and Chairman of Infosys, and Shankar Maruwada, Co-Founder and CEO of EkStep Foundation, both of whom have long advocated for population-scale digital infrastructure.

The themes discussed in that forum closely reflect the design decisions behind Udhyam Saathi.

Saathi runs on WhatsApp because that is where learners already are. It supports multiple languages because classrooms are multilingual. It integrates into existing school systems rather than requiring a parallel platform.

In addition to participating in the dialogue, Udhyam also showcased Udhyam Saathi at a booth set up at The Oberoi hotel, where the South X South event was hosted. The booth created space for deeper conversations with policymakers, researchers, and ecosystem partners about how the product works in real classrooms and how it can scale responsibly within public systems.

Udhyam’s participation aligned directly with the Summit’s focus on inclusive AI for public systems.

AI for Global Development Accelerator: Demonstrating Saathi Live

A key moment at the Summit was the Demo Day of the AI for Global Development Accelerator, led by The Agency Fund in collaboration with OpenAI and the Center for Global Development.

Udhyam was selected as one of eight organisations globally in the 2025 cohort, receiving 500,000 dollars in funding along with OpenAI credits and technical guidance to strengthen Udhyam Saathi’s capabilities and evaluation framework.

On February 19, Mekin Maheshwari, Founder and CEO of Udhyam Learning Foundation, presented Udhyam’s journey and demonstrated Udhyam Saathi, the AI Mentor app.

He walked the audience through how students and teachers are guided through the program journey with an AI Mentor addressing their queries, assessing milestone submissions in text, image, and video formats, and responding  with structured guidance and personalised, holistic feedback. The focus was clear: how do we provide consistent, meaningful support to students and teachers both inside and outside the classroom without adding pressure on teachers?

What followed was an engaging exchange with delegates from OpenAI, Centre for Global Development, representatives from J-PAL, policymakers, researchers, and other international organisations. The discussion moved beyond features and into outcomes, measurement, and long-term system integration.

Udhyam Saathi was not positioned as a standalone tool, but as a problem-solving layer within education systems. A way to extend mentorship at scale while staying grounded in real classroom needs.

The response in the room reflected genuine interest and thoughtful appreciation for both the positioning and the functionality of the solution.

A Week That Reflected Where Udhyam Stands Today

Across the Casebook launch, the South-South dialogue, and the AI for Global Development Demo Day, a clear pattern emerged.

Udhyam is no longer describing what AI in education could become. It is demonstrating what it already is.

A multilingual AI mentor supporting hundreds of thousands of learners.
A system embedded in real classrooms.
A product tested in live environments and examined by global partners.

The Summit offered visibility, conversation, and scrutiny. What it reinforced was something more enduring.

Udhyam Saathi is part of the everyday work of helping students think, build, and move forward.

And that work continues well beyond any summit stage.

The post Udhyam at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 appeared first on Udhyam.

We are proud to announce the launch of our Income Tracker Booklet… What started as a challenge on the ground followed by a simple experiment with hand holding and rigorous follow up that resulted in a small but useful habit building. We are happy to share the journey below .

When working with nano-entrepreneurs and participants in the informal livelihood sector, the lack of credible financial data remains one of the most persistent challenges. Limited financial records, weak accounting practices, and the predominance of cash-based transactions result in income being largely self-reported. This not only restricts access to formal credit but also introduces significant bias. Self-reported income often reflects recency bias, with respondents citing their most recent earnings as a proxy for average income. In addition, revenue is frequently reported as income, while self-consumption is rarely accounted for. Given that income uplift for entrepreneurs is a key objective of our projects, we are continuously exploring ways to address and overcome these measurement challenges.

This was also a challenge with our nano entrepreneurs in the  Saamuhika Shakti project. Saamuhika Shakti is a collective initiative in Bengaluru that brings together organisations with different but complementary strengths to support informal waste pickers and their families.

Building on early trials conducted a few years ago at Udhyam Vyapaar, we wanted to design a way for the entrepreneurs to track their sales and expenses on a daily basis. Of course, we wanted to collect more data – quantity sold, stock remaining, debt repaid etc… but then we realised that this may be too complicated a starting point for this. So we introduced a simple, date-wise two-column tracker – one to record what comes in (earnings) and the other what goes out (expenses). Earnings were colour-coded green and expenses red to make the distinction intuitive and easy to follow.

Finding the first few volunteers itself was a challenge. We began with a small pilot of four entrepreneurs, and the early days required significant hand-holding from our field staff. The Women nano-entrepreneurs were encouraged to update the tracker daily.

Over time, however, adoption improved. Habit building and the utility has led to nearly 40% of entrepreneurs in the cohort maintain the tracker independently, while another 20% do so with support from family members. Many women have shared that the tracker has helped them gain a clearer picture of their business operations.

User feedback also shaped improvements to the tool – an additional column was introduced to capture self-consumption, and a few entrepreneurs have begun pinning bills directly to the tracker. For others, our team continues to work closely to help build this practice into a regular habit.

Today, the tracking sheet exists as a single loose piece of paper and is therefore prone to damage or loss. To encourage and sustain this good practice, we have now printed the income tracking sheet as an annual booklet. We hope this not only makes it easier for women to maintain the habit, but also gradually serves as a simple financial record of their businesses over the years.

This journey also reiterated two key facts for us- that complex problems can have a simple solution and that habit building is a non-negotiable building block for sustaining good practice.

The post Designing for Habit: The Making of Udhyam Vyapaar’s Income Tracker appeared first on Udhyam.

Saamuhika Shakti was built on this belief.

Saamuhika Shakti, initiated and funded by the H&M Foundation, is a structured collective impact initiative in Bengaluru that brings together organisations with deep, complementary expertise to address the interconnected challenges faced by informal waste pickers and their families. Working across livelihoods, entrepreneurship, education, health, social protection, and community systems, the collaboration focuses on bridging systemic gaps that perpetuate vulnerability. By combining economic interventions with efforts to address social, institutional, and gender-based barriers,  including access to entitlements, safety, dignity, and changing societal perceptions, Saamuhika Shakti takes a holistic approach to enabling waste-picking communities, to build more secure, dignified, and sustainable futures.

Why Collective Impact Matters in Informal Livelihoods

In waste-picking communities, livelihood decisions are rarely linear. Work choices are shaped by a constant balancing of informal enterprise, wage-based work, caregiving responsibilities, debt cycles, migration, and seasonal pressures. Entrepreneurship, in this context, is often intermittent and adaptive rather than continuous.
Early in the program, several women who had been identified as nano-entrepreneurs paused or discontinued their businesses to take up housekeeping or waste-picking work that offered immediate daily wages. From a single-organisation lens, this could have been seen as “drop-out.”

Within the collective, however, partners have the opportunity to align on a shared understanding: income stability mattered as much as business continuity. This reframing will allow the program to stay engaged with these women, instead of exiting them prematurely.

Collective impact created space to recognise real livelihoods, not idealised ones.

The Value Created by Udhyam Vyapaar in Saamuhika Shakti

By functioning in a collective rather than as parallel programs, Udhyam Vyapaar in Saamuhika Shakti was able to:

• Design tailored entrepreneurship support
• Enable over 100 nano-entrepreneurs to achieve income uplift despite non-linear pathways
• Strengthen dignity, agency, and confidence alongside economic outcomes

For the community, this meant engaging with a coherent ecosystem of support, rather than navigating fragmented interventions from multiple organisations.

Reflections for the Road Ahead

Collective impact is rarely quick or linear. It is most often applied in contexts of deep complexity, where change unfolds over time and requires sustained collaboration, trust-building, and alignment across organisations. It requires time, humility, negotiation, and continuous alignment. It asks organisations to slow down, listen deeply, and give up sole ownership of success.

No single organisation can respond to the full complexity of life in waste-picking communities. Different families face different constraints, related to income, health, education, safety, or social identity and meaningful change requires these realities to be addressed together, not in isolation.

For Udhyam Vyapaar, the future we are working toward in Saamuhika Shakti is one where multiple organisations engage with different parts of the same community, and often the same family, in a coordinated way. While one organisation may work closely with women on livelihoods or entrepreneurship like we do, another may support access to education, health, social security, or safety. Over time, this collective approach reduces fragmentation, allowing families to experience support as interconnected rather than piecemeal.

By keeping women at the centre, we recognise their central role within households as earners, caregivers, and decision-makers. When women gain more stable and dignified livelihood pathways, the effects extend beyond individual income to influence children’s schooling, household resilience, and the ability to plan for the future. 

Being a part of Saamuhika Shakti’s experience reinforces a powerful lesson:

When organisations align around people and not programs, solutions become more grounded, more humane, and more sustainable.

As the collective continues to evolve, its strength lies not just in shared outcomes, but in the shared intent to learn continuously, adapt, and build systems that reflect the lived realities of the communities they serve.

The post Working on One : Lessons from working for Collective Impact through Saamuhika Shakti appeared first on Udhyam.

Yet the spark to restart her food stall business had never left her. All she needed was the right nudge and the right kind of support.

Solutions that Sparked Growth and Stability

The Udhyam Vyapaar team began by doing what we do best: listening.
Jeeva shared her challenges honestly – her limited utensils, her hesitation to scale production, and the fear that her business might not grow beyond a single meal service.The first step we took with Jeeva was to encourage her to restart.
But encouragement alone isn’t enough. What Jeeva needed was tailored support that matched her context, her aspirations, and her pace.

Customised Support that Fit Her Needs

Over the next seven months, the team worked closely with Jeeva, identifying bottlenecks and building practical pathways for growth.

Here’s what made the difference:

1. Expanding Her Cooking Capacity

Jeeva’s production was restricted because she lacked the vessels needed to cook in larger quantities. With support in buying additional vessels that allowed her to prepare more meals per batch –  her operational capacity increased significantly.

2. Growing from One Meal to Three a Day

With confidence and capacity rising, Jeeva was encouraged to expand her service. From preparing one meal a day, she started offering two meals a day. This expansion opened new opportunities, diversified her income, and made her business more reliable.

3. Strengthening Her Foundation with FSSAI Compliance

To help her business move beyond informal networks, Jeeva was supported in securing her FSSAI license. This not only validated her enterprise but also opened doors to new customers and potential partnerships.

4. Enhancing Food Quality and Hygiene Practices

The team also provided practical guidance on maintaining and improving food quality, hygiene, and presentation. These simple habit shifts significantly improved customer satisfaction.

5. Creating a Comfortable, Weather-Proof Setup

Running a food business from the street meant that weather often disrupted her operations. To ensure she had a stable space regardless of climate, Jeeva set up a canopy to protect her kitchen area from rain and sun. She added chairs for customers to make eating at her stall more comfortable.

These small infrastructural improvements made her service more professional and customer-friendly, increasing footfall and bringing in consistent orders.

The Outcome: Organic Growth that Speaks for Itself

Now, nine months later, Jeeva’s average income now stands at an impressive 3.5 times her initial income. 

But beyond the numbers, what truly stands out is Jeeva’s transformation:

• She operates with renewed confidence
  
• Her business is scaling organically
  
• She now continues to grow her business herself with clarity and purpose

Importantly, much of this growth is built on assets she now owns and capabilities that she has mastered, which will continue to support her income long after our intervention ends, making the impact durable.

Jeeva’s journey has also made her a role model within Udhyam’s women’s nano-entrepreneur ecosystem. Her discipline, consistency, and willingness to adopt new practices will inspire other women nano-entrepreneurs, showing them what steady effort can achieve.

And now this impact is reaching the next generation! Inspired by her mother’s success, Jeeva’s daughter has started using the food stall in the evening to sell snacks with the goal to build a food business of her own.

The post Jeeva’s Journey: Restarting a Dream, One Step at a Time appeared first on Udhyam.

Yet, despite her experience, Jayshri faced a challenge that many small vendors encounter: accuracy. Without a weighing machine, she relied on eyeballing quantities of the items she sold. While her customers trusted her, this method often led to unintentional inconsistencies and product wastage. Over time, those small losses added up, limiting her income.

That’s where Udhyam stepped in to support her business.

Jayshri was provided with a weighing machine, some proper packaging materials, and tools to make her sales more efficient. With these additions, Jayshri has been able to measure products accurately and package them neatly. And the results have been transformative.

She now reports saving 5–6 kilograms of produce every month, which previously went unaccounted for. This reduction in wastage has directly translated into an increase in her income, a meaningful difference for someone whose family depends on every rupee earned.

But beyond the numbers, Jayshri’s story is about confidence. With her new tools, she no longer worries about miscalculations or product loss. She feels equipped to serve her customers better and sustain her business with greater stability.

This intervention is one of many stories that show how small, thoughtful solutions can unlock big changes for rural women nano-entrepreneurs. With the right support, women like Jayshri can run their businesses with precision, pride, and growth.

The post Measuring Success: Jayshri’s Journey From Guesswork To Growth appeared first on Udhyam.

In the United States, residents in villages and towns start their own businesses and transform their lives. These are known as the rural entrepreneurs. They don’t have to wait for the big corporations to arrive and are creating their own path and establishing a brand new India through their passion and determination.

What Is Rural Entrepreneurship?

Let’s start with a basic question: what exactly is rural entrepreneurialism?

Rural entrepreneurialism involves the creation and operation of small or medium-sized enterprises located in rural areas or in villages. Entrepreneurs make use of local resources, expertise, and concepts to create worthwhile products or services.

For instance:

• A woman sets up an enterprise in the dairy industry within her community.
• A farmer who offers organically grown vegetables directly to the customers.
• A young person who begins an in-depth solar energy project to power homes in rural areas.

All of these are instances of rural entrepreneurialism across India.

In simpler terms, rural entrepreneurship means that rural people make their own jobs rather than shifting to cities.

Why Rural Entrepreneurship Is Important

Rural entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in the development of a stronger India. Here’s why:

1. Creates Local Jobs

When businesses are established in rural areas, they offer jobs to other members of their community. This can reduce the number of people who move from rural areas to cities.

2. Uses Local Resources

Villages are blessed with a wealth of natural resources, including the land, water, crops, and traditional techniques. Rural entrepreneurs utilize these resources in a way that is efficient to make useful products.

3. Empowers Women

Many rural women are launching small-scale enterprises such as making pickles, crafts, or even clothes. This provides them with income and autonomy.

4. Reduces Poverty

If more people make money in the villages, it boosts economic growth in the area. Families can afford healthcare, education, and a more comfortable lifestyle.

5. Supports Sustainable Development

Rural enterprises often employ environmentally friendly and natural methods that preserve the environment and encourage sustainable growth.

The Changing Face of Rural Entrepreneurship in India

In the past, rural enterprises were founded on handicrafts or farming. However, today, the landscape is rapidly changing.

With the aid of technology, as well as internet access and even government programs, Rural entrepreneurs can do amazing things. Let’s take a look at how entrepreneurship among rural people in India is growing in various ways:

1. Agriculture-Based Businesses

Farmers are no longer merely cultivating crops. Many have created value-added companies, such as:

• Organic farming
• The dairy and the poultry farm
• Units for food processing (like making pickles, jam chips, jam, or pickles)

This allows them to increase their income and decrease wasted resources.

2. Handicrafts and Cottage Industries

The Indian villages are brimming with crafts and art. The people make gorgeous pottery, handloom clothing, bamboo items, and jewelry.

Through local and online fairs, these hand-crafted products are now reaching major cities, as well as foreign countries.

3. Rural Tourism

Certain villages have been transformed into tourist destinations by providing homestays and local experiences. Villagers can enjoy village life, traditional meals, and craft activities. The villagers earn a profit through tourism.

4. Renewable Energy Startups

Young entrepreneurs from rural areas are launching small wind, solar, or biogas initiatives. These projects provide affordable and clean energy to farms and homes.

5. Digital and E-commerce Businesses

Thanks to the growth of online, those living in smaller towns are able to sell their goods on the internet. Rural entrepreneurs have begun using platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, and social media platforms to reach out to many more potential customers.

Government Support for Rural Entrepreneurship

The Indian government has introduced a variety of initiatives to promote rural entrepreneurs within India. These programs offer training and funding as well as support for rural entrepreneurs.

Some popular schemes include:

1. Startup India – Mentors and supports new entrepreneurs through mentorship, financial assistance, and business guidance.
2. Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) – Offers small-sized loans to entrepreneurs who want to establish or expand their businesses.
3. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) – Trains rural youth to develop job skills.
4. Khadi as well as Village Industries Commission (KVIC) – Helps support traditional industries like handlooms, pottery, handicrafts, and textiles.
5. National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) – Encourages women’s self-help groups to create small-scale businesses.

These programs help thousands of entrepreneurs from rural areas start new ventures and make their goals become reality.

Real-Life Success Stories of Rural Entrepreneurs

To comprehend the power of rural entrepreneurs, let’s take a look at a few actual examples:

1. Mahila Self-Help Groups in Tamil Nadu

Women in small villages are creating snacks and candles as well as handicrafts. They market their products at local markets and make a regular income.

2. Amul — The Dairy Revolution

Amul began as a small co-operative that was formed by farmers from Gujarat. It is now one of the largest dairy companies in India. This shows how small-scale local efforts can result in nationwide success stories.

3. Organic Farmers in Sikkim

A lot of farmers from Sikkim have switched to organic farming. The whole state is renowned for its non-chemical crops, which means that farmers make more from organically grown produce.

4. E-Choupal by ITC

The project connects farmers directly with market prices using online platforms. It assists farmers in getting the best prices possible for their crop, as well as gaining access to useful information.

These examples demonstrate how the rural entrepreneurship that is taking place in India has a profound impact on the direction of the country.

Challenges Faced by Rural Entrepreneurs

Although rural entrepreneurship is on the rise, it is still facing several challenges.

1. Lack of Awareness

A lot of people are unaware of the government programs or training courses offered to them.

2. Limited Access to Finance

The process of obtaining loans or money from banks remains a struggle for small businesses in rural regions.

3. Poor Infrastructure

The lack of roads, power, and internet access in certain areas can make business more difficult.

4. Low Education and Skills

A few people lack the right education or knowledge about business, which hinders their development.

5. Market Access

Rural entrepreneurs are often struggling to attract customers outside of their area of operation.

How to Support Rural Entrepreneurship

In order to strengthen rural entrepreneurship, everyone — the public, private, and even the citizens should work together.

We can assist:

• Training and digital education in the villages.
• Create better roads and improve internet connections.
• Buy local products to support local businesses, “Made in Rural India” products.
• Encourage youngsters to start businesses rather than going to villages.
• Facilitate loan access and marketing assistance.

If rural India expands, the entire nation expands.

The Future of Rural Entrepreneurship in India

The future is promising for rural entrepreneurs in India. With improved education, modern technology, and assistance, rural entrepreneurs are becoming confident entrepreneurs.

We can anticipate being able to

• There are more startups in farming tourism and digital services.
• More women entrepreneurs are leading village businesses.
• Sustainable and eco-friendly rural industries.
• Youth from rural areas are using modern technology and innovative ideas to address local issues.

Rural entrepreneurship isn’t just about business. It’s about fostering confidence, self-reliance, and self-confidence in the villages of India.

Conclusion

The rural entrepreneurs can be the real creators of the emerging India. They’re showing that success doesn’t just have to be found in big cities; it can be started from a tiny village, too.

Through their courage, ingenuity, and the right kind of support, these hardworking individuals are making a difference in their lives and inspiring millions of people.

Each time a farmer sells his organic produce or a woman starts her own small-scale company, 

or a young person creates a rural business, India is taking another step towards advancement.

India’s future India is in its villages, and the entrepreneurship of rural India serves as the bridge connecting visions with reality.

FAQs 

1. What is the definition of rural entrepreneurialism?

Rural entrepreneurship is the act of creating small or medium-sized businesses in rural regions. It can help people find jobs, make use of local resources, and improve the quality of life in villages.

2. Why is rural entrepreneurship so important?

The creation of jobs lowers the burden on women and contributes to the overall growth of India’s economy.

3. Are there any examples of rural entrepreneurs in India?

These include milk farms, handicrafts industries, rural tourism, organic farming, and solar energy startups.

4. How can the government help the rural entrepreneurs?

The government operates a number of programs, including Mudra Yojana, Startup India, KVIC, and NRLM, to provide financial and training assistance.

The post How Rural Entrepreneurs Are Building a New India appeared first on Udhyam.

The Importance of Entrepreneurship Education

Entrepreneurship education fosters creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills crucial for career and personal success. Students gain confidence, adaptability, and resilience, preparing them effectively for an unpredictable future.

Top Entrepreneurship Programs for Students

1. Udhyam Learning Foundation’s EMC Program (India)

• Focus: Real-world entrepreneurial skills integrated into the school curriculum.
• Highlights: Practical learning, mentorship, and business challenges.
• Eligibility: School students from grades 6–12.
• How to Apply: Schools collaborate directly with Udhyam Learning Foundation.

2. MIT $100K Entrepreneurship Competition (USA)

• Focus: Innovation-driven entrepreneurship competition.
• Highlights: Three-stage competition (Pitch, Accelerate, Launch), mentorship, significant funding opportunities.
• Eligibility: Open globally, mainly targeting university-level students.
• How to Apply: Visit MIT $100K website and follow the application guidelines.

3. Atal Tinkering Labs (India)

• Focus: STEM innovation and practical entrepreneurship through hands-on projects.
• Highlights: Over 10,000 labs across India, government-funded, advanced equipment, mentorship.
• Eligibility: Indian schools from grades 6–12.
• How to Apply: Follow the official guidelines provided by Atal Innovation Mission.

4. School Enterprise Challenge (Global)

• Focus: International business startup competition for schools.
• Highlights: Practical business planning, hands-on entrepreneurial experience, global recognition.
• Eligibility: Schools worldwide, teams of students guided by teachers.
• How to Apply: Register on the School Enterprise Challenge website.

5. Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) (Global)

• Focus: Empowering youth through entrepreneurship education and practical experiences.
• Highlights: Curriculum-based programs, global community, mentorship, funding opportunities.
• Eligibility: Middle and high school students globally.
• How to Apply: Connect with NFTE through their official website.

6. Junior Achievement (Global)

• Focus: Financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship.
• Highlights: After-school programs, practical entrepreneurial projects, mentorship.
• Eligibility: K–12 students globally.
• How to Apply: Visit Junior Achievement and find local chapters.

7. LaunchX (USA)

• Focus: High school entrepreneurship summer program.
• Highlights: Intensive startup training, mentorship from industry leaders, pitching opportunities.
• Eligibility: High school students internationally.
• How to Apply: Apply directly through LaunchX website.

Benefits of Participating in Entrepreneurship Programs

• Skill Development: Builds vital skills including creativity, teamwork, and financial literacy.
• Practical Experience: Hands-on learning helps students apply theoretical knowledge effectively.
• Networking Opportunities: Connects students with peers, mentors, and industry experts.
• Career Preparedness: Prepares students for future entrepreneurial ventures and diverse professional roles.

FAQs

1. Which entrepreneurship program is best for beginners?
   Programs like Udhyam EMC, Atal Tinkering Labs, and Junior Achievement are excellent for beginners due to their practical, structured, and supportive approach.
2. Can international students apply to U.S.-based entrepreneurship programs?
   Yes, programs like MIT $100K and LaunchX accept international applicants.
3. Are these entrepreneurship programs expensive?
   Many programs like ATL and School Enterprise Challenge are government-funded or free. Others like MIT $100K offer funding and resources to successful teams.
4. What types of projects do students typically undertake in entrepreneurship programs?
   Students typically undertake innovation projects, business plan competitions, social ventures, and technology startups.
5. Can entrepreneurship programs help with college admissions?
   Yes, participation demonstrates initiative, creativity, and leadership, which are highly valued in college admissions.

Important Application Links and Resources

• Udhyam Learning Foundation
• MIT $100K Entrepreneurship Competition
• Atal Tinkering Labs Application Portal
• School Enterprise Challenge
• Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE)
• Junior Achievement
• LaunchX

Conclusion

Participation in top student entrepreneurship programs provides young minds with the tools to innovate, create, and succeed in a complex, global economy. Each program highlighted offers unique strengths and opportunities, catering to diverse interests and skill levels. Explore these programs today and embark on an exciting entrepreneurial journey.

The post Top Student Entrepreneurship Programs You Should Know About appeared first on Udhyam.

Who Is Mekin Maheshwari?

Mekin Maheshwari is an Indian entrepreneur and angel investor. After building a distinguished career in the tech industry, including key leadership roles at Flipkart, he stepped away from the corporate world to pursue his passion for systemic change. His work now centers on empowering youth, reimagining education, and nurturing entrepreneurial mindsets.

He founded Udhyam Learning Foundation in 2017 to promote the idea of “Freedom through Entrepreneurship” among young Indians. The foundation works with schools, governments, and other partners to embed entrepreneurship into mainstream education.

The Problem: A Crisis in Conventional Education

India’s education system often emphasizes rote memorization and standardized tests, leaving little room for creativity, critical thinking, or self-agency. According to a report by the World Bank, less than half of Indian children in Grade 5 can read a Grade 2-level text.

Maheshwari realized that while access to education had expanded, the quality and relevance of learning had not kept pace. There was an urgent need to go beyond literacy and numeracy to build mindsets and competencies that would allow young people to thrive in an uncertain world.

Udhyam Learning Foundation: Reimagining Learning

At the heart of Maheshwari’s efforts is Udhyam Learning Foundation (https://www.udhyam.org), a non-profit organization that aims to drive mindset transformation in students. It operates two major programs:

1. Udhyam Shiksha

This initiative works with government school systems to integrate entrepreneurial mindsets into the curriculum. The idea is not just to teach business concepts but to help students learn through doing, taking initiatives, solving real problems, and building resilience.

• Reach: Over 2 million students across multiple Indian states.
• Implementation: In collaboration with state governments like Delhi, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
• Approach: Real-world challenges, group-based problem-solving, storytelling, and reflective thinking.

2. Udhyam Vyapaar

This program supports nano and micro-entrepreneurs in India by providing mentorship, business development tools, and access to credit. It aligns with Maheshwari’s belief that entrepreneurship is a pathway to dignity and freedom.

• Focus: Small business owners, especially from marginalized communities.
• Impact: Empowering thousands of grassroots entrepreneurs to grow and sustain their businesses.

North Star: Mindset Transformation

Mekin’s vision goes beyond skill development. He advocates for a deep shift in mindset, from dependency to agency, from fear of failure to experimentation, from passivity to action. His work is based on the belief that when young people are trusted and challenged, they can drive their own learning and shape their own futures.

This philosophy aligns with modern pedagogical research, which emphasizes learner autonomy, experiential learning, and social-emotional development as key drivers of long-term success.

Collaborating with Government Systems

One of the standout features of Maheshwari’s approach is his focus on working within government systems, rather than around them. Udhyam collaborates directly with Departments of Education in multiple states to implement curriculum-aligned entrepreneurial programs at scale.

This systemic approach allows Maheshwari’s impact to go beyond pilot projects or elite schools—it reaches the heart of India’s public education infrastructure.

Tech + Human Values: A Unique Blend

As a technologist, Maheshwari brings a unique perspective to education reform. While he understands the potential of digital tools, he cautions against reducing education to app-based content delivery. Instead, he champions the role of human connection, mentorship, and lived experience.

For instance, Udhyam uses WhatsApp-based bots to support teachers with classroom delivery, while also investing deeply in teacher training, motivation, and mindset.

Stories of Impact

• Ankita from Madhya Pradesh: A 16-year-old who overcame gender bias and community resistance to start a tailoring business in her village, after participating in Udhyam’s entrepreneurship curriculum.
• Ashish from Delhi: Once a school dropout, Ashish found purpose and direction through Udhyam’s programs and now runs a successful snack business with two employees.

These stories are not exceptions—they are emerging patterns across Udhyam’s footprint.

Maheshwari’s Broader Vision

Beyond Udhyam, Maheshwari continues to mentor startups, invest in social enterprises, and participate in policy conversations around education and entrepreneurship. He believes in creating ecosystems, not just interventions.

He often speaks about the need for society to treat youth with respect and trust, and to create opportunities where they can fail, learn, and grow. His work is guided by a belief in dignity, agency, and purpose.

Recognition and Influence

In July 2025, Mekin Maheshwari was named a Senior Fellow by Ashoka, the world’s largest network of leading social entrepreneurs. This prestigious recognition was awarded for his pioneering work through Udhyam Learning Foundation in advancing mindset transformation and promoting entrepreneurship education across India. Joining the ranks of other globally recognized changemakers, Maheshwari’s fellowship reflects not only his personal commitment to systemic change but also the demonstrable impact Udhyam has had on millions of learners and micro-entrepreneurs.

Ashoka’s selection validates Udhyam’s mission of making Bharat entrepreneurial and recognizes its innovative model of working within government systems while championing learner agency, dignity, and purpose.

His work has also gained attention from global development organizations, state governments, and education reform networks. His approach is often cited as a model for how non-profits can scale impact through government partnerships.

While Maheshwari shuns the spotlight, his work has gained attention from global development organizations, state governments, and education reform networks. His approach is often cited as a model for how non-profits can scale impact through government partnerships.

How You Can Engage

• For Educators: Partner with Udhyam to implement entrepreneurship curriculum in your school or district.
• For Policymakers: Explore collaborations to embed mindset-based learning at scale.
• For Funders: Support Udhyam’s expansion to more states and deeper interventions.
• For Citizens: Volunteer, mentor, or simply spread the word about youth-led change.

FAQs

1. What is Mekin Maheshwari’s background?
   He is a tech entrepreneur and former Chief People Officer at Flipkart who now focuses on education reform through Udhyam Learning Foundation.
2. What does Udhyam Shiksha do?
   It works with schools and governments to embed entrepreneurial mindset development into mainstream education.
3. How does Udhyam work with governments?
   Udhyam partners with Departments of Education to align its programs with state curriculum and deliver them at scale.
4. What is Maheshwari’s core philosophy?
   He believes in mindset transformation, learner agency, and the power of youth to lead their own change.
5. Can schools or individuals get involved?
   Yes, Udhyam welcomes collaborations with schools, educators, funders, and volunteers. Visit udhyam.org to learn more.

Conclusion

Mekin Maheshwari is not just an entrepreneur,he is an ecosystem builder, a systems thinker, and a catalyst for human potential. Through Udhyam Learning Foundation, he is demonstrating that large-scale change in education is possible when we start with trust, purpose, and belief in young people.

His journey is a testament to what’s possible when business acumen meets social intent. In a country of 250 million school-going children, Maheshwari’s work is a beacon of what education could and should look like.

The post How Mekin Maheshwari Is Bringing Change to Education in India appeared first on Udhyam.

Why Early Entrepreneurship Education is Crucial

Entrepreneurship education goes beyond teaching students how to start a business. It develops crucial life skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability. According to research by Lemonade Day, students participating in entrepreneurship education exhibit higher academic performance, better attendance, and increased confidence levels.

Types of Entrepreneurship Programs in Schools

1. Curriculum-Integrated Programs

These programs embed entrepreneurial principles directly into the school curriculum. Examples include:

• Udhyam Learning Foundation’s EMC Program in India, promoting real-world entrepreneurial competencies.
• NEEEV Initiative by Delhi Government schools, integrating entrepreneurship education into regular school syllabi.

2. Competitions and Challenges

Students compete with innovative ideas, gaining hands-on experience and sometimes seed funding:

• MIT $100K Entrepreneurship Competition offering mentorship and financial grants.
• School Enterprise Challenge, an international business planning and execution competition.

3. Government-Supported Innovation Labs

• Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) across India, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young students through STEM education.

4. Extracurricular Clubs and Programs

• Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE), offering programs globally that empower young students through practical entrepreneurial experiences.
• Junior Achievement, providing students opportunities to engage in entrepreneurship through after-school activities.

How Students Can Enroll in Entrepreneurship Programs

Step 1: Identify Available Programs
Students should start by speaking with school administrators, teachers, or counselors to explore available entrepreneurship programs or clubs within their school.

Step 2: Participate in Information Sessions
Attend introductory sessions, webinars, or workshops provided by programs such as Udhyam, MIT $100K, or NFTE to gain detailed insights.

Step 3: Submit an Application
Typically, students must submit an application including personal details, a preliminary business idea, or a statement of purpose. For competitions, a pitch deck or proposal might be required.

Step 4: Form a Team and Develop Ideas
Entrepreneurship thrives on collaboration. Students should form diverse teams and brainstorm ideas, leveraging each member’s strengths.

Step 5: Engage and Compete
Active participation is key. Engage fully in competitions or classroom activities, seeking regular feedback from mentors and teachers.

Step 6: Utilize Mentorship and Resources
Leverage mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and educators. Many programs provide ongoing mentorship and access to resources like startup toolkits, funding, and networking opportunities.

Step 7: Launch and Iterate
Put theory into practice. Launch pilot ventures within the school or community, gathering feedback and continuously refining the business model.

Inspirational Examples of Successful Student Entrepreneurship Programs

• Udhyam Learning Foundation (India): Empowered thousands of students by embedding entrepreneurship into mainstream education through practical, real-world experiences.
• MIT $100K Competition (Global): Has launched numerous successful startups, creating significant employment and attracting considerable investment.
• Atal Tinkering Labs (India): Over 10,000 labs nationwide promoting innovation and entrepreneurship among school students through practical STEM education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. At what age can students join entrepreneurship programs?

Most programs are open from 6th grade onwards, though competitions often target students in grades 9–12.

2. How do students apply for entrepreneurship programs?

Applications typically require basic information, a preliminary business idea or proposal, and sometimes a pitch presentation. Information sessions or school counselors can guide students through the process.

3. Are special skills required to join entrepreneurship programs?

No special skills are required. These programs are designed to teach and develop necessary skills like creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork.

4. Do entrepreneurship programs provide funding?

Yes, many programs such as MIT $100K and NFTE provide mentorship, seed funding, or awards for student-run startups.

5. Can students participate in entrepreneurship programs online?

Absolutely. Many programs, including MIT $100K and Junior Achievement, offer online or hybrid participation options.

6. What career outcomes do entrepreneurship programs offer?

These programs equip students with entrepreneurial skills beneficial for future careers, whether launching their ventures or excelling in leadership roles within established companies.

7. How long do entrepreneurship programs typically last?

Program durations vary widely, from short workshops and boot camps lasting a few days or weeks to ongoing programs integrated throughout the academic year.

8. Can entrepreneurship programs benefit students who don’t intend to start a business?

Yes, entrepreneurship education enhances vital life and career skills, beneficial for any professional path, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication.

9. Are entrepreneurship programs expensive for students?

Many entrepreneurship programs offered by schools or nonprofits are free or subsidized, making them highly accessible to most students.

Important Application Links and Resources

• Atal Tinkering Labs Application Portal
• ATL Application Guidelines and Annexures
• MIT $100K Entrepreneurship Competition
• MIT Accelerate Round Application
• Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE)
• Junior Achievement

Conclusion

Entrepreneurship education in schools equips students with critical skills, inspiring innovation and leadership. By engaging early, students not only enhance their academic and personal growth but also become catalysts for societal and economic advancements. Whether integrated within the curriculum, part of competitions, or through extracurricular clubs, entrepreneurship programs provide pathways to impactful, practical learning.

Encourage students to take the first step today toward becoming future-ready entrepreneurs by exploring entrepreneurship opportunities offered at their schools and communities.

The post How Students Can Join Entrepreneurship Programs in School appeared first on Udhyam.