Empowering MBA students with hands-on exposure to the startup ecosystem and real-world investment process
National: K J Somaiya Institute of Management (KJSIM) has launched the New Venture Investment Project (NVIP) — an innovative experiential learning program designed to equip MBA students with hands-on exposure to the startup investment process.
Developed in collaboration with Somaiya Vidyavihar University‘s incubator, RiiDL, the initiative bridges the gap between academia and the entrepreneurial ecosystem by enabling students to assess, value, and recommend real startups for potential investment consideration.
KJSIM offers a range of experiential learning opportunities like capstone projects, social impact projects, and research-based theses. The New Venture Investment Project is the latest addition, allowing students to step into the role of startup investors by applying classroom learning to live business scenarios. Mentored by faculty and alumni mentors, the students will analyse early-stage ventures, perform valuation exercises, and present evidence-based investment recommendations to experienced investors and mentors.
Speaking about the initiative, Raman Ramachandran, PhD, Dean & Director, K J Somaiya Institute of Management, said, “At KJSIM, we believe that management education must translate into action. The New Venture Investment Project gives our students the opportunity to learn by doing — to engage directly with the startup ecosystem, make tangible decisions, and experience the real-world dynamics of investment. This is experiential learning at its finest.”
Echoing this, Gaurang Shetty, CEO, RiiDL, Somaiya Vidyavihar, remarked, “This collaboration reflects RiiDL’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. By connecting management students with live startups, we’re preparing future leaders who understand both the business of ideas and the discipline of investment.”
The programme is designed to immerse students in a complete cycle of research, evaluation, mentorship, and reflection, culminating in an investment pitch simulation. Each student team will collaborate with startups incubated at RiiDL, gaining insights into startup finance, business modelling, and valuation techniques.
Through NVIP, students not only strengthen their analytical and strategic thinking but also contribute directly to India’s innovation landscape — reinforcing KJSIM’s commitment to learning that leads to action.
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