Year 2017 was a special milestone in my entrepreneurship journey when I registered ArcTop Labs Pvt Ltd, a data tech company. The same year, my digital data idea at ArcTop Labs was recognized under StartUp India DIPP7405. Being among the early top 1500 startups recognized by Startup India, initiated by PM Modi, was a proud achievement. This recognition gave me multiple opportunities to connect, socialize, and attend exclusive startup events organized by both government and private entities.

One such significant event was the StartUp India State Conference at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra, New Delhi, on 12 September 2017. This early conference allowed states to showcase their startup ecosystem and attract new entrepreneurs to join the movement. For me, it became a chance to meet government figures like C.R. Chaudhary, Ministry of State Commerce, the Secretary of Startup India, and state delegates. I also interacted with SIDBI representatives and startup founders presenting unique and inspiring ideas.

Captured Moments: Highlights from the Memoir

Explore the complete collection photos: >> Entrepreneurship Memories of StartUPIndia Conference New Delhi Year 2017

The event venue itself created lasting memories. Held at the newly built Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra, it gave me a rare opportunity to explore the Gandhi Museum. Revisiting the life of Mahatma Gandhi, whose biography I had read and films I had watched, left a deep impression. These were the early days of the Indian startup ecosystem, during this time only a few elite businessmen dominated startup business. With StartUpIndia, India government encouraged millions to begin their entrepreneurial journey. When i attended this conference, almost 3500+ startups had been recognised, showing India’s growing momentum.

For me, this event was a highlight of my entrepreneurial journey. I connected with young innovators, startup founders, and government delegates who shared their vision. The biggest challenge, however, remained funding. Many promised support but offered only freebies from partners like AWS and Zoho, which still proved game-changing for my digital tech ideas. Manufacturing startups, however, struggled more without capital support. These lessons taught me that in first-generation entrepreneurship, you must earn steadily, manage family responsibilities, and reinvest wisely to sustain growth.

#Year2017 #StartUp #StartUpIndia #StartUpEcosystem #Entrepreneurship