HYDERABAD, Jan 5: Inspiring discussions, entrepreneurial insights, and innovative ideas marked the American Progressive Telugu Association (APTA) Katalyst 2025 conference held at HITEX, Madhapur.
Entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and innovators shared strategies and stories to motivate budding entrepreneurs and highlight challenges across sectors.
During the panel discussion on “Scaling Up: From USD 1 million to USD 100 million Revenue-Strategies for Success,” moderated by Murali Bukkapatnam, Chair of TiE Global Board of Trustees for 2025, panelists emphasised the importance of teamwork. Bhaskar Gangipamula, President of Quadrant Technologies, shared his strategy of continuous talent acquisition, saying, “Human resources are the biggest asset. Building a great team is essential for scaling up.”
The discussion also stressed empowering employees by giving them ownership and responsibility, ensuring their dedication aligns with organizational goals.
A panel on “India’s Semiconductor Push: Building a Robust Chip Manufacturing Ecosystem” highlighted the potential for India to manufacture Wi-Fi chips and IoT gateways.
Chandrudu Sambashiva Rao of Quadgen Wireless emphasized the role of semiconductors in global tech, noting, “Semiconductors are not rocket science. They are at the core of the world’s most valuable companies.”
Bheemudu Pasupuleti, a self-made technocrat and polymer insulator manufacturer, recounted his journey from missing formal education in his early years to establishing a company with a turnover of Rs100 crore, aiming for Rs 300 crore in three years. “Entrepreneurship requires confidence, determination, and the ability to take risks,” he said.
Babji of SVS Projects India emphasized the power of disruptive ideas, stating, “Money is not the real investment; the idea is.”
A session on “Women in Cinema” featuring Niharika Konidela and Sunitha Tati addressed gender disparities in the film industry. Niharika emphasized the importance of strong storytelling, saying, “If the story and narration are good, the audience will embrace the film.”
Panelists highlighted the underrepresentation of women in the industry and called for more significant roles, as seen in classics like Gundamma Katha.
The signature Business Pitch Contest saw five startups-Samruddhi Eco Agrifabrix, SureChain, Indgeos Geospatial Technologies, Archimedes Green Energy, and EPIC International-present their ideas to a packed audience of 1,000 and venture capitalists.
Chaired by Hari Gaddam and Kamal Sakamuri, the competition showcased rural entrepreneurship, with four rural startups among the finalists. Winners will receive Rs 2.5 lakh, Rs 1.5 lakh, and Rs 1 lakh, with potential investments of up to USD 10 million from venture capitalists like Aroa Ventures and SucSeed.
The last day featured over 20 sessions and panels, offering participants insights into various industries, challenges, and opportunities.
(UNI)
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