A new entrepreneurial initiative aimed at connecting innovative business ideas, entrepreneurs, investors and strategic capital was launched in Guwahati on September 19, bringing together entrepreneurs, startup founders, investors, bankers and innovators from Assam and neighbouring states.
The initiative was led by Kunal Barthakur, an MBA graduate from the University of Chester, UK, and Venture Builder and Founder of the MVB Group. It was designed as a platform for entrepreneurs to exchange ideas, explore collaboration opportunities and connect with potential investors and strategic partners.
The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by a musical tribute to Assam’s heartthrob singer and musician Zubeen Garg. Participants introduced themselves and shared insights into their ventures, professional experiences and entrepreneurial journeys. Discussions covered business opportunities, technology, funding, market access, investment and potential partnerships.
Addressing the gathering, Kunal Barthakur delivered a keynote speech on entrepreneurship and emerging technologies, highlighting opportunities in advanced manufacturing sectors such as Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP), metallic bonded surfaces and other innovative industrial applications. He also spoke about ongoing efforts to introduce technologies such as plasma waste-to-energy systems, patent-pending solar-powered water purification technology and FRP industrial applications in the Northeast.
The initiative aims to help aspiring entrepreneurs identify technology-driven business opportunities and build sustainable enterprises within the region. Among those who attended were Alok Bora, Regional Head of Export-Import Bank of India; Dr. Prasanta Buragohain, Chairman of NEPEDS; Daisy Bhattacharya, Venture Builder; Arindom Bharali, Director of Haaku Digital Pvt. Ltd.; Rinku Roy, Branch Head of IDFC Bank; Milan Borah, Founder of FwthrAgri Solutions Pvt. Ltd.; Bhargav Deori, Director of Renergy Solutions Pvt. Ltd.; Sandeep Jain, Founder of The Employment Express; Barsha Dutta, Founder of Oorjaman; Babiba Sultana, Founder of Avanzotech; and several other entrepreneurs, professionals and innovators.
A notable aspect of the programme was the enthusiastic participation of young and aspiring entrepreneurs. Organisers emphasised the importance of introducing entrepreneurship and innovation at the school and college level and encouraging students to consider entrepreneurship alongside conventional career options. They said the initiative seeks to inspire more young people to pursue independent and self-reliant careers through entrepreneurship.
The event also featured a series of musical performances dedicated to Zubeen Garg. Innovator and flutist Mr. AK performed “Endhar Hobo Nuware” on the flute, while musicians and singers including Farhan Kutub, Nabangshu Aryan, Nishan Kumar, Rupjyoti Gautam, Sanjay K. Borah and Kartik Kakati entertained the audience. A special highlight was a performance by three-year-old Master Aviraqj Barthakur, who sang Zubeen Garg’s popular song “Maya Mathu Maya”. The tribute concluded with an open-mic session where several participants performed songs of the celebrated singer.
The organisers thanked K Cafe, Guwahati, for hosting the gathering and expressed gratitude to all participants for contributing to the discussions. They announced plans to continue the initiative as a fortnightly event, to be held every alternate Saturday, with future editions focusing on technology, manufacturing, entrepreneurship, employment generation and economic self-reliance in the Northeast.
