Startup Launch Pad Challenge

Event Overview: Event Name: Start Up Launch Pad Challenge Cluster: Makerspace Cluster Event Type: Startup Pitching & Innovation Challenge Mode: Offline Team Size: Individual Or Team Of Up To 4 Members Duration: 1 Day Event Event Task / Objective: The Start Up Launch Pad Challenge is designed to encourage innovation and entrepreneurial thinking among students. Participants are required to identify a real-world problem and propose a startup-based solution with a strong business and implementation plan. The event focuses on: Problem identification Innovative solution design Market validation Business model creation Effective pitching skills Participants will pitch their startup ideas before an expert evaluation panel and receive constructive feedback and mentorship. Design / Technical Specifications: Solutions can be technology-based or non-technology-based startups. Use of existing tools, platforms, or technologies is allowed, but: Ideas must be original No copied or plagiarized business models Working prototype is optional but encouraged. Presentation must clearly explain: Problem statement Proposed solution Target users Revenue model Scalability Any programming language, platform, or framework may be used (if applicable). AI tools may be used only for assistance, not for full idea generation. General Guidelines: Participants must adhere strictly to event timelines. Teams must register within the stipulated deadline. All ideas must be developed by the team members only. Each team must submit: Problem statement Solution overview Business model Market opportunity Unique value proposition Teams must be present during their assigned pitching slot. Any form of misbehavior or malpractice will result in disqualification. Safety Rules: Applicable for teams demonstrating physical prototypes. Prototypes must comply with basic electrical and mechanical safety norms. No hazardous, flammable, or high-voltage components allowed. Organizers are not responsible for any damage or loss of personal equipment. All demonstrations must be conducted under supervision. Event Rounds / Structure: Round 1: Idea Screening & Abstract Evaluation – Duration: — Round 2: Pitch Presentation (Shortlisted Teams) – Duration: 5–7 Minutes Per Team Final Evaluation: Q&A + Scoring + Results – Duration: — Submission Guidelines: Final submission must include: Pitch Deck (PPT / PDF) Business Model Explanation Market & Revenue Strategy Demo / Prototype (If Available) Submission before the announced deadline Late submissions will not be entertained. Judging Criteria: Innovation & Creativity: 25% Feasibility & Business Model: 25% Problem Relevance & Impact: 20% Scalability & Sustainability: 20% Presentation & Clarity: 10% Scoring Overview: Idea Strength & Impact: 40 Business & Market Strategy: 25 Innovation & Uniqueness: 20 Presentation & Communication: 15 Total: 100 Penalties & Disqualifications: Late Submission: -10 Points Plagiarized Idea: Immediate Disqualification Misrepresentation Of Data: -20 Points Unethical Conduct: Immediate Disqualification Absence During Pitch: Disqualification Awards & Recognition: 1st Prize: ₹20,000 – Winner 2nd Prize: ₹15,000 – Runner-up 3rd Prize: ₹10,000 – Best Startup Idea Special Mention: Certificates – Innovation / Social Impact Event Team: Faculty Coordinator: Name: Dr. Divyarani M.S Department / Club: Professor & Deputy Director, Makerspace Contact: — Student Event Lead: Name: Krishna Mhetraskar Department / Club: 3rd Year, CSE Contact: 7676687772 General Instructions: Maintain professionalism and discipline throughout the event. Judges’ decision will be final and binding. Certificates will be awarded only to valid participants. Any rule violation may lead to disqualification. Official Note: This Rule Book serves as the official guideline for the Start Up Launch Pad Challenge under – Makerspace Cluster, Presidency University. Any updates or clarifications will be communicated officially through the Makerspace notice board and WhatsApp channels.