Brandeis International Business School
The Brandeis International Business School India Innovation Launchpad 2025 unites graduate students from diverse institutions to solve social challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and the needs of local nonprofits in India. Participants work collaboratively on impactful solutions that extend beyond software, exploring ideas like physical prototypes, business models, educational resources and space redesigns.
Structured in stages, the launchpad begins with virtual ideation sessions focused on identifying "Compelling and Actionable" problems and progresses through research and prototyping with guidance from mentors. It culminates in an in-person event in Mumbai, India where teams present final solutions to showcase their innovation and impact. This hackathon emphasizes cross-cultural collaboration, real-world impact and lasting connections among future leaders.
Join us to make a real-world impact—secure your spot today!
Pre-Work
Mid-November
Participants will research problem areas related to the UN SDGs or needs of local nonprofits.
Kickoff Planning Meeting
Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at 8:30 A.M. to 9:30 A.M. EST (Virtual)
Team Formation and Idea Pitching
Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 8:30 A.M. to 9:30 A.M. EST (Virtual) and
Friday, December 6, 2024 at 8:30 A.M. to 9:30 A.M. EST (Virtual)
Participants pitch “Compelling and Actionable” problems for consideration, aligning with UN SDGs or local nonprofit needs. Teams will consist of 3-5 members, including at least one student from each institution.
Problem Ideation
Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at 8:30 A.M. to 9:30 A.M. EST (Virtual)
Teams brainstorm to define actionable problems, working with startup experts in a Business Model Canvas-style exercise.
Research Opportunities
Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 8:30 A.M. to 9:30 A.M. EST (Virtual)
Teams conduct in-depth research, refining their focus based on feedback from mentors and developing a project management plan.
Solution Brainstorming
Late-December
Teams begin building solutions through MVP testing, gathering feedback for further refinement and focusing on feasibility and social impact.
Final Event
Saturday, January 11, 2025 - Mumbai, India
Teams will test their solutions with local stakeholders, refining ideas before the final in-person event at the Indian partner school. Workshops and final presentations will prepare teams to showcase their work effectively.
Presentation and Awards Ceremony
Saturday, January 11, 2025 - Evening
Teams will present in a Project Exhibition format, with awards based on criteria such as relevance, creativity, feasibility, impact potential and presentation quality.
Presentations will follow a Project Exhibition format, allowing teams to pitch multiple times. Judges will evaluate projects based on alignment with UN SDGs, innovation, feasibility, impact potential and communication skills.
At Brandeis International Business School, we believe in the power of business for global good. Our mission is to educate the next generation of data-driven, principled leaders and improve the world through innovative research and ideas.
As an AACSB-accredited institution with highly ranked, STEM-designated programs, we equip students with the skills and global perspective needed for successful careers.
Our alumni thrive at top organizations, from Fortune 500 companies to groundbreaking startups. We are part of Brandeis University and share its commitment to making a positive impact on the world.