Five-day SPARK programme to nurture innovation

Visakhapatnam: The Ratan Tata Innovation Hub (RTIH) at CMT Business School has launched a five-day SPARK programme designed to cultivate innovation, entrepreneurial thinking, and a vibrant startup culture among students. Running through February 14, the initiative blends expert-led sessions with immersive, hands-on learning to connect participants with the practical realities of the startup ecosystem.

About the programme

SPARK offers a structured learning experience that encourages students to move beyond conventional career pathways and explore entrepreneurship as a meaningful avenue for impact. The programme emphasizes problem-solving, creativity, and the disciplined execution of ideas, with opportunities for participants to interact directly with experienced entrepreneurs and industry leaders.

What participants can expect

• Expert talks and mentorship from leaders in innovation and business.
• Hands-on workshops focused on ideation, validation, and prototyping.
• Insights into market fit, business models, and early-stage growth strategies.
• Practical exposure to startup ecosystems and real-world case studies.

Encouraging entrepreneurship

Participating as chief guest, Ravi Eswarapu, CEO of the Ratan Tata Innovation Hub, highlighted the growing importance of startups in shaping the economy. He encouraged students to think beyond traditional job roles and view entrepreneurship as a pathway that fuels innovation, generates employment, and drives economic progress.

As part of the programme’s outcome, select participants will be identified as potential founders. These students will receive comprehensive funding support from RTIH to transform promising ideas into viable ventures—an opportunity designed to accelerate their entrepreneurial journey from concept to execution.

Key speakers and dignitaries

The event brought together leaders from academia and industry, including:

• Ravi Eswarapu, CEO, Ratan Tata Innovation Hub
• Deepika Das, Executive Director, CMT
• Krishna Mohan, Director General, READ Institutions
• Archana, Director
• Kiran Korivi, Co-founder, Alcove Partners
• Imtiaz Arshad, Founder and CEO, Transformix Global LLP

Impact and next steps

By combining mentorship, practical training, and funding pathways, the SPARK programme aims to equip students with the confidence and capability to launch startups that are both innovative and sustainable. As sessions continue through February 14, participants will refine their ideas, develop actionable plans, and position themselves for continued support through RTIH’s network and resources.

With its focus on real-world learning and founder readiness, SPARK stands as a launchpad for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to create meaningful solutions and build impactful ventures.