Gangtok, February 6: A financial literacy workshop was organized in Gangtok today for the Sikkim startup ecosystem by the Commerce and Industries Department, Government of Sikkim. It was held under the aegis of DPIIT, Government of India.
The workshop aimed to build awareness and vision among youth entrepreneurs to innovate impactful business startups. Attendees included government officials, representatives from organizations like Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), entrepreneurs, and students.
Sessions covered state government incentives for entrepreneurs, Startup India benefits like funding support and market access, accounting strategies, taxation and GST compliance, funding opportunities and team building, efficient working capital management, and more.
Speakers highlighted the PMEGP scheme with 50 lakh and 20 lakh limits for manufacturing and service sectors. The need for ideas from young minds was also emphasized. An STPI presentation showcased services like statutory approvals, infrastructure, and information security audits to promote IT/ITES exports and startups.
Training topics focused on financial records management, optimized cash flows, the role of technology and AI in managing finances, common funding pitfalls like overtrading and data capture, and building effective teams.
The workshop aimed to promote equitable entrepreneurship opportunities among Sikkim youth by building capacity on financial planning and management. This supports the state government’s entrepreneurship agenda, including the newly launched innovation labs in schools and colleges.
Authorities urged participants to explore schemes and facilities by STPI and governments. The presentations and sessions equipped young entrepreneurs to strategically manage critical business aspects like accounting, compliance, funding, and growth planning.
Overall, the workshop enabled networking and learning to transform business ideas into impactful, financially sustainable startups in Sikkim.