State Bank of India (SBI), through its Start-up branch, hosted its first-ever Start-up Pitch Fest – Dream2Demo, providing a unique platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas directly to leading investors.
Start-ups welcomed the initiative, calling it a timely and much-needed effort by SBI to bridge the gap between innovators and the investment community.
The event was graced by eminent leaders, including Natrajan Mallupillai, CEO, IITM Research Park; Sivarajah Ramanathan, MD, Startup TN; Vivekanand Choubey, Chief General Manager, SBI Chennai Circle; MVR Murali Krishna, GM NW-1, along with other senior SBI officials.
Advancing key missions
Addressing the gathering, Choubey said the fest reflects SBI’s larger role in advancing the Make in India and Startup India missions by fostering entrepreneurship. Mallupillai applauded SBI’s foresight in facilitating meaningful start-up-investor connections, while Ramanathan highlighted the bank’s contribution to strengthening Tamil Nadu’s innovation ecosystem. Krishna emphasised that SBI aspires to be a trusted partner in every start-up’s growth journey by offering financing, mentorship and market linkages.
The fest also showcased SBI’s range of customised solutions, including equity-linked funding, and its partnerships with Startup TN and the IIT Madras Incubation Cell. Through these initiatives, SBI reaffirmed its commitment to empowering innovators and supporting their journey from grassroots to global markets.
Published on September 4, 2025