Today Startups Are Transforming into Lifestyles in India

Mohit Sureka has mastered a range of roles throughout his career. As a Finance Head, Founder, CEO, Industry Speaker, Investment Banker, and Startup Consultant, his expertise is unparalleled. Driven by his passion as a content creator, Mohit crafts stories with profound impact, touching lives and inspiring change. He currently leads major startups including Mojo Startup Advisory, 3x Events Management, Global Startups Club, and Gamezon.

In an exclusive exchange with The Interview World, Mohit Sureka, Founder of Global Startups Club, shares his organization’s strategic initiatives to empower startups. He details how their networking events create vital connections and growth opportunities for emerging businesses. Mohit provides keen insights into the ever-evolving Indian startup ecosystem, shedding light on the innovations and trends reshaping the industry. He also tackles the significant challenges startups face, from securing funding to navigating regulations and scaling operations. Here are the key takeaways from his compelling interview.

Q: What specific initiatives has your organization undertaken to promote startups in the country?

A: We spearhead two pivotal initiatives designed to ignite startup growth and foster powerful collaborations. Our flagship, the Global Startups Club, operates across 10 bustling Indian cities. This initiative unites startups, investors, and ecosystem players through a series of dynamic, monthly in-person events. These include everything from informal coffee chats and high-energy networking sessions to insightful breakfasts and panel discussions featuring industry trailblazers and venture capitalists. We champion the essence of face-to-face interaction, harnessing all five senses to build trust and drive authentic connections.

Our expansive network positions us as one of the nation’s largest and most influential startup ecosystems. We orchestrate events that range from intimate gatherings of 30-40 to grand-scale assemblies of 400-500 attendees. With a robust schedule of around 18 events per month, culminating in up to 200 annually, our reach vastly outstrips other major players who typically manage just four events each month. Through these efforts, we’re not just connecting people; we’re catalyzing innovation and setting the stage for startup success.

Q: How will these events benefit the startup community?

A: Participating in community events is pivotal for fostering collaboration and building essential connections. These gatherings provide opportunities to meet potential co-founders, CTOs, and like-minded individuals who can share and expand on innovative ideas. Through these interactions, you exchange valuable knowledge and contribute to each other’s growth, creating a robust network of support.

For example, connecting with a real-time angel fund might not immediately result in direct investment for your startup. However, this connection could introduce you to a network of 20 other startups or investors, potentially leading to valuable funding opportunities. Over time, frequent interactions with these contacts often evolve into meaningful professional relationships and friendships.

In the startup world, where work extends well beyond the traditional 9-to-5 schedule, being actively engaged in the ecosystem is essential. The community’s support and collaboration are crucial for driving collective progress and achieving long-term success.

Q: What is your assessment of the current state of the Indian startup ecosystem?

A: The Indian startup ecosystem is experiencing an unprecedented surge in energy and innovation. Driven by a deep-seated ambition, Indian entrepreneurs are not just participating but actively shaping the global business landscape. A decade ago, the norm was to replicate successful models from Europe or the U.S., but now, the focus has shifted to pioneering original and transformative ideas.

Today’s founders are backed by innovative thinking and a willingness to push boundaries. Platforms like Shark Tank India showcase these groundbreaking ventures, and extensive media coverage amplifies their impact. Additionally, the Modi government’s robust support for startup events and initiatives, coupled with active community involvement, is fueling this dynamic growth. This collective effort is propelling the startup ecosystem to new heights, with founders leading the charge.

As a serial entrepreneur, I have seen this ecosystem evolve rapidly. Many startup founders are now creating their own networks and communities, marking the early stages of a robust startup culture in India.

The future is bright for this ecosystem. Looking ahead 20 years, as the ecosystem matures and evolves, its influence will be even more significant. The Indian startup landscape is set to play a pivotal role on the global stage, promising immense growth and innovation.

Q: What do you believe are the major red flags currently facing the startup ecosystem?

A: Major red flags emerge when founders’ experience does not align with their innovative ideas. Having a groundbreaking idea is not enough; understanding how to execute and implement it practically is crucial. Founders often struggle to turn their vision into a profitable venture, which is a significant concern. Funding alone cannot address all issues. While investors have their own criteria, the fundamental question is whether you can progress despite financial constraints. This attitude—being able to start and advance even with limited resources—is vital for success.

Many founders desire a cushioned approach from the beginning, which is problematic. True startup success requires a readiness to face intense challenges and relentless effort right from the start. Founders should be prepared for the fight and hustle necessary to build a business from the ground up.

Furthermore, while a lack of funds is a common complaint among startups, it should not be seen as a primary obstacle. You can initiate a service segment within your company, generate revenue from it, and use those earnings to fund your core startup. Relying solely on external investors is not the only path to sustainable growth. Building a business with a self-sustaining model can be more effective and rewarding in the long run.