Hyderabad : Telangana State Innovation Cell launched the T-Social Startups Network (TSSN) recently to mobilise an exclusive network of like-minded enablers in the social innovation and impact space from Telangana who are working toward helping the state become a global hub for social innovation and impact while aligning to the Sustainable Development Goals

Over 30 Stakeholders like Investors, Incubators, Industry representatives and Non profits attended the inaugural meeting of the TSSN, which laid out the vision and goals of the initiative. The event also showcased the work of 16 Social Startups to the community. Notable attendees included stakeholders Palle Srujana, Bala Vikasa International Center, T-HUB, AIC-CCMB, etc.

Supported by AIC-IIITH Foundation, this network initiative by TSIC would bring together like-minded Stakeholders in the Social Innovation space in the state to enable them to amplify their impact.

It is designed to create a platform for Stakeholders from Social Impact Ecosystem in the city to come together to enable and amplify their Impact. The overall vision is “To mobilise an exclusive network of like-minded enablers in the social innovation and impact space from Telangana who are working toward helping the state become a global hub for social innovation and impact while aligning to the Sustainable Development Goals.”

Mr. Viiveck Verma, Senior Advisor to TSIC, laid out the vision of the Network and outlined the broad goals of TSSN with aim to help the state reach the target of 5K5Y – 5000 startups in 5 years. Subsequently, Prof. Ramesh Loganathan of AIC-IIITH laid out the approach of TSSN. This would include:

●       Create a Network including Directory to Categorise and Organise the Players, Communication channels, Meetups and Impact Huddle

●       Enable stakeholders through Collective events like Monthly meetup of stakeholders, Monthly talks and Social mixer for startups, Quarterly pitch days and programs to Seeding new founders.

●       Amplify the impact by Jointly showcasing the work done, Collectively sourcing support and funds, Connecting startups and enablers with large corporates and policy maker sand Annual Impact Day showcase and bring in the new player

Mr. Raj Janagam, CEO of AIC-IIITH laid out the potential of the TSSN to create impact and shared a draft Calendar of Events to undertake. In the discussion that followed, participants praised the initiative and put forth their views. Brig. P Ganesham of Palle Srujana pointed out the need to design programs that meet the needs of the rural innovators.

The launch meeting was followed by an Elevator Pitch Session where 16 Social Impact Startups showcased their work to the Stakeholders present. This included startups from fields like Argitech [Krishitantra], Medtech [Candiphi] and FemTech [The Period Hub].

Giving his concluding notes, Mr. Viiveck Verma said, “I am very excited at Telangana taking yet another great stride through this network being set up which will drive the state and all stakeholders in the Social Innovation and Social Impact ecosystem to the next level. This will help us position the ecosystem as one of the best in the world which strives to foster the spirit of Social Innovation and social impact. I wish the network and the state the best wishes as this is a great stride in the right direction. ”