Author Archives: Janani

A specialised online workshop on the Business Model Canvas was conducted to help startups design, analyse, and strengthen their business frameworks. The session focused on equipping participants with practical knowledge to build effective and scalable business strategies.

The workshop was led by Shyam Sekar S, Founder and Chief Mentor of Startup Xperts, and covered key aspects of designing, evaluating, and innovating business models using the Business Model Canvas approach.

The session was held on 20 May 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, in an online format. It was organised by the Faculty of Management Studies, under the banner of the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), Gopal Narayan Singh University.

The workshop provided participants with valuable insights aimed at sharpening their entrepreneurial mindset and strengthening their understanding of structured business planning.

Mr. Shyam Sekar S, Founder and CEO of Startup Xperts, has successfully completed the Training Program to Crack the Independent Directors’ Exam with Grade A+ under the Skill India & NSDC initiative, reaffirming his commitment to continuous learning and professional excellence.

With years of experience mentoring startups and advising businesses and boards, Mr. Shyam Sekar S believes that staying relevant requires staying updated. This achievement reflects his ongoing effort to deepen governance expertise and remain aligned with evolving boardroom expectations.

More than a certification, this milestone underscores the belief that learning is a lifelong journey, and that growth comes to those who actively seek it. Continuous learning enables leaders to lead with wisdom, contribute with relevance, and create meaningful impact.

He looks forward to applying this enhanced expertise, alongside his advisory experience, to support stronger boardroom decision-making and improved corporate governance, while continuing to engage with and contribute to the broader business and startup ecosystem.

The E-Summit at IIT Madras proved to be an action-packed and energising weekend, marked by immersive engagement with the startup ecosystem. Mr. Shyam Sekar S, Founder and CEO of Startup Xperts, participated across two days, contributing in dual roles as a Jury Member and Mentor.

On Day 1, Mr. Shyam Sekar S served on the jury for the E-21 Startup Pitch Finals, where young entrepreneurs presented their ideas with remarkable confidence and conviction. The pitches stood out for their energy, passion, and bold thinking. Notably, several participants from Classes 10 and 12 demonstrated exceptional maturity by balancing academic commitments while presenting their startup ideas. Selecting the top three finalists was a challenging task, reflecting the overall quality and inspiration showcased by the participants.

Day 2 focused on an intensive Expert Edge mentoring engagement, involving startups at various stages of growth, including several already operating successful businesses. The mentoring sessions went beyond ideation, addressing growth bottlenecks, strategic shifts, and pathways to scale. Each interaction involved in-depth discussions, practical insights, and targeted guidance to help founders move forward with clarity and confidence.

The weekend concluded as a fulfilling and impactful experience, reinforcing a strong commitment to contributing meaningfully to India’s vibrant startup ecosystem. Such engagements continue to provide opportunities to learn, share knowledge, and support entrepreneurial growth, while strengthening collaboration within the ecosystem.