IIM Sambalpur Marks 9th Foundation Day

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur celebrated its 9th Foundation Day under the theme 'Accelerating Startup Ecosystems'. The event featured the signing of an MoU between IIM Sambalpur and India Accelerator, aimed at empowering startups affiliated with the institute.

Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister of Education, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In a video message, Pradhan congratulated IIM Sambalpur on its milestone Foundation Day. He commended the institute's strategic alliances and partnerships with entities such as India Accelerator, SIDBI, and Flipkart, recognising their pivotal role in nurturing entrepreneurship and supporting local artisans and craftsmen.

Pradhan urged students to embrace the core values of the institution — innovation, inclusivity and integrity — as guiding principles in all their endeavours. He emphasised that the institute had equipped them with the knowledge and skills essential for professional success. Encouraging them to aspire to excellence, he urged students to contribute to society, maintain their commitment to values, and work towards India's development as a developed nation by 2047.

The event's Guest of Honour Sushant Kumar, Founder and Principal, ESKEYN Ventures & Indus Capital, USA, made an announcement of pledging a substantial USD 2 million for the establishment of an incubation centre at IIM Sambalpur. The event also saw the felicitation of key achievers in various fields, with dignitaries honouring their accomplishments.