Indian Business Idol 2024

The Indian Business Idol contest, a highlight of India Day Thuringia, will take place on November 7, 2024, at TU Ilmenau. It invites innovative ideas aimed at enhancing business relations between Germany and India, offering students a platform to showcase their vision to industry leaders.

Contest Overview


The Indian Business Idol 2024 is a premier contest designed to uncover innovative business ideas that strengthen trade relations between Germany, particularly Thuringia, and India. Our main objective is to identify creative strategies that can boost imports from India to Germany or expand exports from Germany to India. 

Whether you're passionate about enhancing business relations, bridging markets, or fostering new opportunities between these two nations, this contest offers a platform to turn your ideas into impactful ventures. 

Students from TU Ilmenau are invited to participate, showcasing their entrepreneurial talent and gaining visibility among influential companies in Thuringia.


Ready to participate? Click below to learn how to apply and make your mark!


How to Apply

Meet the Organizers

PD Dr. Jürgen Nützel

Dr. Nützel, the CEO of 4FO and a key organizer of Indian Business Idol contest, has extensive experience in fostering Indian-German business relations. He co-founded the CloudPros Technologies India Pvt. Ltd. with former student Shivani Tinna. 

Dr. Priyanka Maity

Priyanka is a researcher in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and currently works as an R&D engineer at UV Technik. With over 10 years of experience, she is passionate about bridging basic science research with real-world applications. Previously, she was a postdoctoral fellow at TU Ilmenau. 

Ayotunde Akinsoyinu

Ayotunde Akinsoyinu, Project Coordinator of International Engineers for Thuringia at TU Ilmenau, has over 5 years of experience in career counseling. She specializes in supporting international students and professionals in successfully integrating into the German labor market. 

PD Dr. Sukhdeep Singh

Dr. Singh leads the Bioorganic Chemistry for Bioactive Surfaces research group at TU Ilmenau, focusing on stimuli-responsive systems and sustainable chemistry. With expertise in both Indian and German academic environments, he bridges cultural and industrial gaps in fields like coating technology, circular economy, and photochemistry. 

How to Apply

Prepare Your Application

Write a brief description of your innovative business idea (maximum 150 words) and  a short bio about yourself (maximum 100 words), including your name, academic background, and why you're interested in the contest.

Attach Required Files

Attach a recent photo of yourself and optionally, include an image that visually represents your business idea.

Submit by Email

Send your complete application to register@indianbusinessidol.com from your official tu-ilmenau.de email address. Ensure the subject line includes your full name and "Indian Business Idol Application."

Applications are open from October 1 to October 30, 2024. Be sure to submit by the deadline! 

Eligibility


The Indian Business Idol 2024 is open to all TU Ilmenau students who are excited to present innovative business ideas that enhance trade relations between Germany and India. While there is a special emphasis on encouraging students of Indian origin to participate, the contest warmly welcomes students from all nationalities to join.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Open to All TU Ilmenau Students: Any currently enrolled student at TU Ilmenau is eligible to apply.
  • Focus on Indian-Origin Students: Although the contest highlights the participation of Indian-origin students, individuals from other countries are strongly encouraged to apply.
  • Interest in International Business: Applicants should have a passion for business, especially in fostering stronger trade relations between Germany and India.

This is a unique platform to showcase your innovative ideas and gain exposure among businesses and industry leaders in Thuringia!

Event Day Schedule

The Indian Business Idol 2024 will be held as part of India Day Thuringia on November 7, 2024, at TU Ilmenau, from 17:15 to 18:00. Here’s what you can expect during this exciting segment of the event:

17:15
Candidate Presentations

A maximum of 10 selected candidates will each be given 3 minutes to present their business idea using two presentation slides.

Slide 1: Personal introduction 

Slide 2: Business idea 

Format:  Candidates will be assigned letters (A to J) to make it easier for the audience to remember them during voting. The presentations will take place in front of a live audience. Voters will remain anonymous.

Right After Presentations
Audience Voting

After all presentations, the audience will vote for their favorite business idea. Each attendee will Scan a QR code displayed on the screen. Be directed to a voting page where they can select their preferred candidate (A to J).

Once Voting Closes
Results Announcement

Once voting closes, the results will be calculated and displayed live on the screen. The top three candidates will be highlighted as the contest winners.

Concluding the Event
Prize Distribution

The winners will receive their prizes in a small award ceremony.

All participants will also benefit from gaining visibility with companies in Thuringia, offering further opportunities for collaboration, internships, or job offers.

The event is an excellent opportunity to network with business leaders, showcase your entrepreneurial skills, and gain recognition for your innovative ideas. Don’t miss your chance to make an impact!

Prizes and Benefits


The Indian Business Idol 2024 contest offers not only attractive prizes but also valuable exposure to the business community in Thuringia, opening doors to further opportunities.

1st Place: €100 Amazon Voucher

2nd Place: €50 Amazon Voucher

3rd Place: €25 Amazon Voucher

Additional Benefits

Beyond the cash prizes, all participants will gain:

  • Visibility: Your idea will be presented to an audience of influential companies and business leaders in Thuringia.
  • Networking Opportunities: The event offers a chance to connect with potential collaborators, business partners, and industry professionals.
  • Internships & Job Offers: Participants may catch the attention of companies in attendance, potentially leading to internships or job offers.

This contest is not just about winning prizes, it’s about making valuable connections and gaining industry recognition that can help you advance in your professional journey.

FAQs