Sonata commits Rs 12 mn to groom next-gen entrepreneurs

BANGALORE, INDIA: Sonata Software and National Institute of Technology (NIT) Trichy announced a partnership to promote student innovation and entrepreneurship.

Sonata Software will use its resources to support the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Incubation (CEDI), NIT Trichy in incubating and developing next generation entrepreneurs.

This joint initiative will also be a significant step in strengthening the Technology Incubation and Development of Entrepreneurs (TIDE) program of Ministry of Communications & IT.

The Innovation and the Entrepreneurship Development activities of NIT Trichy are spearheaded by CEDI, and is involved in a variety of activities and initiatives spanning the entire value chain of promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. These include awareness creation, education and training, providing platforms for validating innovative ideas, business plan development, and importantly incubation support along with seed funding.

In addition to technical and managerial support, Sonata will commit significant funding to the extent of Rs. 12 million for three years beginning 2014-15 to CEDI NIT Trichy to support technology business incubation.

Srikar Reddy, CEO, Sonata Software and NIT Trichy alumnus said, “Sonata has always believed in harnessing technology for innovation and fostering an entrepreneurship culture. Our business is powered by many young employees who focus on taking new age solutions to our customers. This partnership helps us in engaging with innovation and encouraging entrepreneurship right at the college.”

Dr. S. Sundarrajan, Director, NIT Trichy, said, “We are happy that Sonata could commit its resources and expertise to this activity. Their experience in taking IT products and services to market will add a clear edge to the advice and support our incubatees will receive.”