Shreekant Patil delivered a seminar at Vishwalata College on entrepreneurship, startups, and innovation under NIMA–college MoU. Yeola, Nashik, September 24, 2025 — Vishwalata Art, Science, and Commerce College, Bhatgaon, Yeola hosted a special seminar on entrepreneurship and innovation, featuring CEng. Shreekant Patil, leading Startup India Mentor and Committee Chairman at NIMA Nashik. The event was organized under the Memorandum of Understanding signed between NIMA Nashik and the college to strengthen entrepreneurship, employment, and internship opportunities for students. The seminar, held at 10 AM, was graced by the presence of Prof. Annasaheb Pawar, Principal of Vishwalata College, and Shri Prashant Bhandare, Hon. Secretary. Prof. Pawar felicitated CEng. Shreekant Patil for his contribution to entrepreneurship development and his commitment to empowering students. More than 60 students, faculty members, and esteemed guest Dr. Yogesh Bhadane attended the seminar, which created an engaging platform for dialogue on innovation and self-employment. Key Highlights of the Seminar CEng. Shreekant Patil, with over 30 years of industry experience and founder of PARENTNashik, shared real-world examples from his entrepreneurial journey. He emphasized the importance of innovation in building a “Viksit Bharat” and discussed his role as jury member at the Smart India Hackathon (SIH 2025). Students were introduced to startup opportunities, government support programs, and seed funding initiatives, particularly for women entrepreneurs through schemes like “Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Women Startup Scheme”. Guidance was shared on idea pitching, Startup India support mechanisms, and the growing financial and mentoring support for tier-2 and tier-3 cities. · Importantly, Shreekant Patil explained how the State Government Skill Development Office, Nashik, plays a crucial role in supporting startups and generating employment. Through various job fairs and skill-building programs, the Nashik office has been successfully connecting youth with industries and providing platforms for both employment and business development. CEng. Shreekant Patil also urged the college management to conduct an idea pitching hackathon on campus to nurture the startup ecosystem locally. On behalf of NIMA, he assured full support to students for exploring self-employment, including awareness of government subsidy schemes for small businesses. The seminar concluded with an interactive Q&A session where students engaged with CENg Shreekant Patil on practical aspects of establishing startups. Prof. Dnyandeo Kadam delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude for Patil's insights and requesting his frequent visits and long-term mentoring support for the college's budding entrepreneurs. This seminar marked an important milestone in strengthening collaboration between academia and industry, furthering the mission of empowering students to become job creators and innovators in India's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Shreekant Patil mentored the NEC 2025 Venture Catalyst team from Siliguri Institute of Technology, West Bengal, during an IIT Bombay NEC Program. Mumbai, September 22, 2025 — Shreekant Patil, Startup Mentor at IIT Bombay E-Cell, conducted a one-hour online webinar for the Venture Catalyst team under the National Entrepreneurship Challenge (NEC 2025). The session was attended by selected mentees from Siliguri Institute of Technology, West Bengal, and aimed at strengthening their entrepreneurial mindset with practical insights and guidance. The webinar, held at 11 AM, was inaugurated by Prof. Deb Shekhar, who felicitated CEng Shreekant Patil. Kinjal Dutta, coordinator of the Venture Catalyst group, along with other team members, actively participated in the interactive session. Shreekant Patil's Role at IIT Bombay E-Cell Shreekant Patil has been associated with IIT Bombay E-Cell as a Startup Advisor and Mentor since 2022, contributing to the growth of India's startup ecosystem. Under the Illuminate initiative, he conducts day-long workshops across colleges nationwide, guiding students to adopt critical thinking, pursue self-employment, and become employment generators. As part of Eureka 2025, he has mentored numerous student entrepreneurs and early-stage startups, offering crucial hand-holding support for seed funding and providing them platforms for pitching at national and international levels. A two-year Smart India Hackathon (SIH) Idea Evaluator, Patil trains students on how to prepare impactful business presentations by following Startup India guidelines. Highlights of the NEC 2025 Webinar During the webinar, Shreekant Patil shared real-world entrepreneurial experiences from his 30-year career, including challenges and lessons learned on the road to success. He offered valuable guidance on launching startups, evaluating ideas, building teams, and accessing government and private support systems for entrepreneurs. Patil emphasized the need for youth innovation and entrepreneurship to achieve the vision of a Viksit Bharat, while motivating students to transition from job-seekers to job-creators. The session concluded with a Q&A round, where students received practical advice on navigating their entrepreneurial journeys. Participants expressed their gratitude for Patil's mentorship and looked forward to future interactions under IIT Bombay's NEC and Illuminate initiatives.

Illuminate by IIT Bombay, the flagship initiative of the E-Cell IIT Bombay, successfully hosted its 2025 edition in Nashik on September 10th at MVP Samaj's College of Physiotherapy, - MVPPT, Adgaon. The full-day workshop featured distinguished speaker & trainer, CEng. Shreekant Patil—a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of industry experience, recognized Startup India Mentor, and mentor at IIT Bombay's E-Cell, NEC, and Eureka initiatives. The workshop was organized by IIT Bombay: E-Cell, witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 150 students, who were guided by veteran trainer in entrepreneurship CEng. Shreekant Patil on topics including startup ecosystems, team building, Business Model Canvas, investment readiness, effective pitching, and ideation strategies. The session aimed at inspiring young innovators to explore entrepreneurship as a viable career path while equipping them with real-world insights and tools for success. Shreekant Patil's deep industry knowledge and practical mentoring approach resonated strongly with attendees, especially budding physiotherapists aspiring to drive impact through innovation. He emphasized the importance of the Government of India's initiatives such as Startup India, Standup India, Make in India, NSDC, ONDC, QCI, Skill India and top initiative Viksit Bharat 2047 Mission - is an initiative aimed at realizing Indias aspiration of becoming a developed nation by its centennial year of independence, urging students to harness opportunities available through incubation centres, seed funding programs, and DPIIT certifications. The workshop was inaugurated with the presence of notable dignitaries including Hon. Adv. Nitin ji Thakare, Sarchitnis of Maratha Vidya Prasarak Samaj, MVPPT, Dean Dr. Sudhir Bhamre, Principal Dr. Amrit Kaur, faculty members, and IIC Coordinator Dr. Pranali Pawar. Dr. Shreekant Patil was felicitated by the MVPPT college management and acknowledged for his ongoing contribution to nation-building and the entrepreneurial ecosystem in India. Through engaging activities, case-based discussions, and real-life anecdotes, Shreekant Patil encouraged the students to generate innovative business ideas and develop entrepreneurial mindsets. His guidance bridged the gap between academic knowledge and entrepreneurial practice, preparing students to be the leaders of tomorrow. Speaking at the event, CEng. Shreekant Patil stated, “Mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs, especially future physiotherapists is more than an engagement; it is a commitment to building an empowered nation. Young innovators in health care must seize opportunities, think boldly, and contribute to a Atmanirbhar Bharat.” About Illuminate by IIT Bombay Illuminate is an initiative of the Entrepreneurship Cell of IIT Bombay designed to ignite entrepreneurial thinking among students across India. The workshops provide experiential learning in entrepreneurial strategy, innovation, leadership, and business creation, with insights imparted by accomplished entrepreneurs and industry leaders. About Shreekant Patil Shreekant Patil is a seasoned entrepreneur, mentor, chartered engineer and veteran business leader, consultant with over three decades of entrepreneurial success. He is an official Startup India Mentor and supports numerous startups nationwide through organizations such as NIMA, IBSEA, ICTRD, and the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce - MACCIA. Shreekant Patil also serves as a technical committee member with BIS India, contributes to policy-making through NPC India (Ministry of Commerce), and works closely with various government of India and educational institutions to mentor, seed fund, govt subsidy schemes, govt incentives and empower startups, aspiring entrepreneurs. Shreekant is an active top startup mentor with IIT Bombay & IIT Madras for past 3 years.

IBSEA honors Shreekant Patil on Teachers' Day 2025 for his role in building startups, uplifting MSMEs, women entrepreneurs & global exporters Delhi, India, 5th September 2025: The International Business Startup & Entrepreneurs Association (IBSEA) proudly presented the prestigious Certificate of Achievement – IBSEA Ratna Award to CEng. Shreekant Patil, Maharashtra State Vice President, renowned Startup Mentor, and visionary entrepreneur, on the special occasion of Teachers' Day September 5th, 2025 This honour recognizes his remarkable work in building a strong startup ecosystem, empowering MSMEs, supporting women entrepreneurs, and guiding exporters at both national and international levels. As a mentor and ecosystem enabler, Shreekant Patil has consistently dedicated his efforts towards uplifting emerging entrepreneurs, offering guidance, resources, and mentorship that bridges the gap between innovation and sustainable business growth. His initiatives have been pivotal in strengthening the startup ecosystem in Maharashtra and beyond, helping entrepreneurs scale their ventures and access new markets. CEng. Shreekant Patil's active contributions in MSME development have enabled countless small and medium enterprises to enhance operations, adopt modern practices, and achieve higher levels of competitiveness. By supporting women empowerment initiatives, he has encouraged women entrepreneurs to build independent, resilient businesses, fostering inclusivity within India's entrepreneurial landscape. At the same time, his dedicated mentorship for exporters has extended Indian businesses to reach international markets, boosting trade and building global recognition. Extending his congratulations, IBSEA Chairman Shri Anshuman Singh remarked: “Shreekant Patil's unwavering commitment to entrepreneurship, training, and mentorship embodies the true spirit of Teachers' Day. His vision in empowering startups, uplifting MSMEs, and guiding exporters is a significant stride toward realizing Mission Viksit Bharat 2047. His work is not only shaping capable, self-reliant individuals but also contributing directly to the nation's economic progress.” Through his association with IBSEA, CEng. Shreekant Patil has helped strengthen networks, disseminate vital knowledge, and create opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow and succeed. This recognition as an IBSEA Ratna Awardee highlights his enduring contribution toward building a Viksit Bharat 2047

Shreekant Patil inspires 75+ Sandip University fashion design students on World Entrepreneurship Day – WED 2025, sharing startup insights, govt schemes & self-employment tips. Nashik, August 21, 2025 – On the occasion of World Entrepreneurs' Day 2025, the School of Design at Sandip University, Nashik, hosted an exclusive workshop with renowned entrepreneur, Startup India Mentor, and BIS India National Team Member CEng. Shreekant Patil as the Guest Speaker on August 21st, 2025. The event was held at 3:30 p.m. in the university campus where Prof. (Dr.) Vibha Kapoor, Dean of the School of Design, felicitated Shreekant Patil for his remarkable contribution in fostering entrepreneurship and guiding startups across India. Addressing more than 75 enthusiastic fashion design students, Shreekant Patil shared his inspiring entrepreneurial journey and emphasized the growing importance of self-employment and business opportunities for graduates. He encouraged students to consider entrepreneurship as a career path, highlighted the government's support through various subsidy schemes, and motivated them to build independent ventures in the design industry. He also guided them on national-level innovation platforms like Eureka 2025 and National Entrepreneurship Challenge of IIT Bombay, along with Smart India Hackathon 2025 and the India Skills Competition 2025, urging them to participate for exposure and growth. The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, where students sought career advice and entrepreneurial guidance directly from him, followed by a heartfelt vote of thanks from Prof. (Dr.) Vibha Kapoor. Shreekant Patil assured the Dean of his continued support in mentoring School of Design students and connecting them with future opportunities and government schemes. Widely respected as a successful entrepreneur and mentor, Shreekant Patil is an Official Startup India Mentor, National Level Technical Team Member of BIS India, and DGFT-registered Chartered Engineer. With his mission to build new startups, empower women entrepreneurs, and strengthen India's export ecosystem, he continues to actively contribute to India's vision of becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Shreekant Patil inspires DMINashik MBA students on World Entrepreneurship Day 2025 with a startup workshop & NEC pitching competition jury. Nashik, August 21, 2025 – On the occasion of World Entrepreneurs' Day 2025, the Dr. Moonje Institute of Management & Computer Studies (DMINashik), Nashik, hosted a remarkable entrepreneurial program featuring Startup India Mentor and BIS India National Team Member Eng. Shreekant Patil as the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker on August 21st, 2025. The day began at 10:00 a.m. with a workshop where more than 50 enthusiastic BBA and MBA students, along with faculty, gathered to gain valuable insights into entrepreneurship. Mr. Patil was felicitated by Prof. Shraddha Goel and Dr. Manoj Kumar Langote for his outstanding contributions in guiding startups and promoting innovation. During the session, he shared his entrepreneurial journey, discussed the significance of Startup India and Government support schemes, and inspired students to seize opportunities through national level platforms such as Eureka 2025 at IIT Bombay, National Entrepreneurship Challenge, Smart India Hackathon 2025, and India Skills Competition 2025. His interactive talk concluded with an engaging Q&A session, leaving students motivated and empowered to pursue their startup ideas. Later in the afternoon, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., the institute conducted the National Entrepreneurship Challenge – Pitching Competition, with CEng. Shreekant Patil serving as the Chief Jury. Shreekant Patil has been nominated by IIT Bombay as Jury Member and Mentor for NEC and Eureka 2025. Several student teams presented innovative business pitches with great enthusiasm and professionalism. After carefully evaluating the pitches, Mr. Shreekant Patil selected three outstanding teams who will represent Dr. Moonje Institute at the upcoming IIT Bombay NEC competition. He also guided participants on the art of startup pitching, presentation skills, business model structuring, and essential tips to succeed in high-level competitions. Speaking on the occasion, Shreekant Patil highlighted the importance of empowering young talent, encouraging innovation, and nurturing future entrepreneurs to support India's vision of becoming a global leader in innovation and a Viksit Bharat by 2047. The day-long program not only motivated students but also created a strong platform for them to explore entrepreneurship as a career path while gaining first-hand mentorship and exposure from an industry leader.

Startup mentor Shreekant Patil addresses Yeola merchants, shares govt schemes info, promises support, and plans upcoming workshop. Yeola, Nashik,Maharashtra –Shreekant Patil, renowned Startup India Mentor and Chairperson of NIMA & MACCIA, was invited as the Guest of Honour at the Yeola Vyapari Mahasangh event held at Sidharth Lounge, Nagar Manmad Road, Yeola on August 10th, 2025. The event witnessed the participation of over 75 merchants, along with distinguished guests from the Manmad Vyapari Sangh and Kopargaon Vyapari Sangh. During the event, CEng. Shreekant Patil shared valuable insights on various government schemes such as Startup India, Standup India, and the NSIC's AWRT (Assistance to Wholesaler & Retail Traders) scheme, which support traders and retailers. He discussed how these initiatives can empower the business community by offering subsidies, loans, and other growth-oriented services. CEng. Shreekant Patil was felicitated by Mr. Yogesh Sonawane, Chairman of Yeola Vyapari Mahasangh, and in his speech, he assured full support for the members in accessing these schemes, as well as providing mentorship on business growth and development. In return, the Chairman expressed gratitude and committed to organizing a one-day workshop to help members leverage government schemes effectively. The event provided a platform for networking and collaboration, strengthening the bonds between local merchants and entrepreneurs from nearby regions. Shreekant Patil's engagement marks a significant step in promoting government-backed entrepreneurial support in the region. About Shreekant Patil: - CEng Shreekant Patil is founder at PARENTNashik – (India), (100 % Export to Europe). He is Committee chairman at NIMA Startup Hub, Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Vice President at IBSEA, GFID & MSMECCII, Advisor at United Marathi International Chamber, GIBF, Founder member at FOEII University, Delhi, Chartered Engineer with DGFT, Valuer, with 30 years of industrial experience now working as Sr. Consultant at NPC India Under Ministry of Commerce & Industry and Resource person Rp (Trainer) at BIS – Bureau of Indian Standards – Govt of India. Official Mentor at Govt of India Initiatives: MAARG, BHASKAR, Startup India, WEP, STPI, BIRAC, AYE, MeitY Startup Hub, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, Certified LEAN, ZED, Consultant, Euro Exim Bank, AfDB, Asian Development Bank, SIDBI, United Nations, European Commissions, Registered (Govt of India) Trainer, Assessor at NSDC (Skill India), PoP at UGC, Volunteer Startup Mentor at AICTE – Vidyanjali Programme, Independent Director, Niryat Bandhu, Udyami Mitra at Khadi India, Associated with EEPC, SEPC, APEDA, Council member at International Trade Council – Business for innovation & technology, member, reviewer, mentor at Asian Council of Science Editors, IFERP, Global Harmonization Initiative, Cluster collaboration- European Union, mentor at MentorMe program of European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), Sustainability Ambassador for UNSDG – SPSC- UK. Shreekant Patil has been nominated in roster of experts at UNFCCC.

Shreekant Patil, C.Engg and founder of PARENTNashik, has received a prestigious mentorship appreciation from IIT Bombay E-Cell during “Eureka 2024 – Road to Enterprise”. The recognition acknowledges his significant contributions as a mentor to national startups. The award was presented by Mr. Amey Patil, overall coordinator at IIT Bombay, who commended Shreekant's continuous efforts to foster innovation and entrepreneurship across India. CE Shreekant Patil, who is also a key player in various government of India's initiatives such as MAARG, BHASKAR, Startup India, WEP, STPI, BIRAC, AYE, MeitY Startup Hub, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, and Sr. Consultant at NP Council, under ministry of commerce & industry (Govt of India), has been instrumental in policy making, mentoring and guiding emerging entrepreneurs. His work through national & international platforms has played a pivotal role in advancing India's startup ecosystem. With over 30 years of diversified experience in industrial innovation, Shreekant Patil's involvement with higher educational bodies, including NCTE, AICTE and UGC, further enhances the connection between academia and industry. His impactful role in initiatives like NMM, Vidyanjali and Manthan continues to influence the development of a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in the country. On the national front, Shreekant Patil has been actively engaged in supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through his roles in organizations such as IBSEA, MACCIA, NIMA Startup Hub and MSMECCII. His deep understanding of the challenges faced by MSMEs has helped create strategies that empower these businesses to scale and thrive. Shreekant is also involved in multiple government-backed schemes that assist MSMEs in achieving global competitiveness, connecting them with resources, networks, and funding opportunities that drive growth. Internationally, being active international advisor – consultant, Shreekant has extended his support not only to startups but SMEs & MSMEs by collaborating with global institutions like Euro Exim Bank, African Development Bank, Asian Development Bank, the United Nations, and the European Union's Cluster Collaboration program, International Trade Council – Business for innovation & technology- ITC, member, reviewer, mentor at Asian Council of Science Editors, IFERP, Global Harmonization Initiative, Cluster collaboration- European Union, mentor at MentorMe program of European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), Sustainability Ambassador for UNSDG – SPSC- UK. Through these collaborations, he has helped facilitate international market access for many Indian MSMEs, promoting their products and services worldwide with export promotional councils like EEPC, SEPC, APEDA etc. Working with DGFT as chartered engineer, his efforts are enabling these businesses to expand into foreign markets, improving their visibility, and fostering cross-border trade and innovation. This award reflects Shreekant Patil's relentless commitment to shaping the future of Indian entrepreneurship, bridging critical gaps, and inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Shreekant Patil Drives Innovation and Support for Startups During National Startup Innovation Week & celebrates National Startup Day 2025 in Nashik Under the leadership of Shreekant Patil, Chairman of the Cluster & Startup Development Committee at MACCIA and Startup India Mentor, a series of impactful events were organized to celebrate National Startup Innovation Week (January 10th to 18th, 2025) and strengthen the startup ecosystem in Nashik. Startup Investor Meet — January 10th 1. Startup Investor Meet (January 10th) Held at MACCIA Nashik, the event attracted local entrepreneurs seeking investment, with Qatar-based investors Mr. Abhishek Kute and Mr. Pramod exploring funding opportunities. Vice President Shri Sanjay Sonawane & under Shreekant Patil, committee Chairman — Cluster & Startup development, led a session, offering guidance to startups on scaling their businesses. The event highlighted MACCIA's ongoing efforts to nurture a thriving startup ecosystem in Nashik. National Startup Day at KBT College of Engineering — January 16th 2. National Startup Day at Maratha Vidya Prasarak Samaj's Sharadchandraji Pawar College of Architecture & KBT Engineering College (January 16th): As a keynote speaker, Shreekant Patil shared valuable insights into the startup ecosystem, emphasizing the creation of a Startup Innovation Cell at the college level. MACCIA pledged to offer mentorship, industry connect, and funding to support students' entrepreneurial journeys. National Startup Day at Sir Dr. M. S. Gosavi College of Commerce — January 17th 3. National Startup Day at Sir Dr. M. S. Gosavi College of Commerce (January 17th): As the chief guest, Shreekant Patil guided students on utilizing government schemes and subsidies to start their first businesses, helping them understand the resources available for new ventures. National Startup Day at Government Industrial Training Institute (Adivasi), Trimbakeshwar — January 17th 4. National Startup Day at Government Industrial Training Institute (Adivasi), Trimbakeshwar (January 17th): Shreekant Patil addressed ITI students and professors, educating them on the startup ecosystem and the government schemes available through DIC to support small businesses in Trimbak. These events reflect MACCIA's commitment to fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurs. Through the leadership of Shreekant Patil, MACCIA continues to create opportunities for aspiring startups by providing mentorship, funding, creating startup ecosystem in Nashik region and vital industry connections.

Ding-Dong! “Stand clear of the closing doors, please” blasted the announcer's voice across the station. Jonah had heard this everyday since he could remember. “3 stops till Kingston” he thought, carrying a backpack full of books that he dreaded carrying for hours on the commute to and back from school. Jonah kicked his feet back and forth, his feet grazing the ground just slightly. He stared at the creases on his shoes who's brand he couldn't recall. They were some off brands anyways, no reason to remember which ones. The subway screeched to a halt, the faces outside the car that were once blurred stare back at Jonah. People start to push and shove the minute the doors open. Running up the stairs to leave the station, a mirage of conversations, mumblings and people talking flood Jonah's senses. He can't really make out what they're saying, he doesn't really try. “Jonah! How was school?” Jonah's finally made it to his destination. A small deli run by an older Korean man and his daughter. The sign outside reads “Ray's Delicatessen” but most people here call it “Ray's”, “Mr. Park's”, “the Park/Park” or “the Deli”. For Jonah, he calls it “home”. “Fine Mr. Park! Same as always!” replied Jonah Mr. Park shook his head and chuckled as he continued to tend to other customers, “As long as you're not getting into trouble” It's become a routine, Mr. Park asks how he is and Jonah replies with fine no matter what. Jonah tries to not stress him out, he always hears Hannah, Mr. Park's daughter, complain about her forehead wrinkles, crows feet and smile lines. Jonah doesn't see a problem but still tries to avoid making them worse Jonah slips behind the checkout counter, he sits on the blue crate right under the cash register and starts his homework on his knees like usual. History, English, then Science and Math, hardest to easiest. Jonah loves closing up shop and definitely not just because he gets to eat some of the unsold bagels and sausages. “Ai *tsk* Jonah, you know you mustn't sit here” exclames Mr. Park. Jonah doesn't move, Mr. Park doesn't really care. Time passes, business has been slow these days but it only means more time for Mr. Park and Jonah to talk. The deli was not just a place to get a quick eat for Jonah after school, it was his place of refuge, one of love and community. He had somewhere to be and all Mr. Park asked for in return were English lessons and to use some of Jonah's beginner-level novels to practice his reading skills. Jonah knew Mr. Park stopped needing those lessons a long time ago and for those textbooks, Mr. Park still reads them. Even though he completed all of them, cover to cover, hundreds of times, it still gives those literary works a second life. And Jonah would never mind when Mr. Park read them outloud to him either, even when he pretended to hate it. Bed-time stories were for ‘babies' and not 8 and a half year-olds. Still, “Maybe these books aren't so bad” thought Jonah. For without them, their friendship would be lost in translation.