Welcome to the MERI Startup Hub Ideathon 2024!
This is more than just a competition; it's a platform designed to spark creativity, empower young innovators, and shape the next generation of entrepreneurs. Whether you're a student, a startup, or a budding entrepreneur, this Ideathon is your opportunity to transform groundbreaking ideas into impactful ventures.
About the Event
Our Ideathon invites participants to tackle real-world challenges and pitch innovative solutions. You'll have the chance to connect with mentors, network with industry professionals, and compete for exciting prizes. Outstanding teams will pitch their ideas at our Startup Festival, where further incubation and cash prizes await.
Event Highlights
Online Prelims
Teams will receive specific problem statements and submit their initial ideas online.
Offline Finals
Shortlisted teams will present their ideas to a panel of judges in person.
Mentorship Sessions
Gain access to expert guidance to enhance your pitches and refine your strategies.
Startup Festival Showcase
Winners will showcase their ideas at the Startup Festival and qualify for incubation and funding opportunities.
Themes & Focus Areas
The Ideathon 2024 will feature five key themes,
The Ideathon 2024 will feature five key themes,
each representing crucial areas for innovation and growth:

Mobility and Logistics
Focuses on innovations in electric vehicles, drones, and robotics that are transforming transportation. Startups are redefining logistics with AI-driven automation, smart infrastructure, and sustainable solutions for efficient, seamless goods and people movement.

Defense Innovation
Focuses on defense innovations like AI-powered surveillance, cybersecurity, and risk management solutions. Startups enhance national security with emergency response systems, and technologies improving resilience and safety against evolving threats.

Healthcare
This theme highlights AI-powered diagnostics and wearable devices that enhance healthcare delivery. Startups are transforming patient care through personalized medicine, biotech advancements, and innovations in healthcare accessibility..

Mental Well-being
Startups addressing mental health through digital platforms, AI-driven therapy, and stress management tools. This theme promotes accessible, innovative, scalable solutions that reduce stigma, encourage societal well-being, and improve mental health resources for communities.

Sustainability and Circular Economy
Startups develop sustainable business models focusing on eco-friendly innovations. The circular economy reduces waste through recycling, reuse, and efficient material design, promoting environmental responsibility across industries and minimizing ecological impact.
Phases of the Ideathon
- Problem Statements: Teams will receive unique challenges to address.
- Submission: Present a brief outline of your proposed solution.
- Mentorship: Selected teams will be paired with mentors to refine their ideas for the final round.
- Pitch Presentation: Finalists will pitch their business concepts to a panel of judges.
- Awards & Opportunities: Winners will receive cash prizes, mentorship, incubation offers, and valuable networking opportunities at the Startup Festival.