Pensez 2009 is a Case Study Competition organised by the Entrepreneurship Cell IIT Kharagpur. The problem statements are designed to inculcate an innovative strategy of analysing phenomena relating to entrepreneurship in general. It includes Sociological, Industrial and Technological aspects designed to focus on certain trends and issues in entrepreneurial spheres.

Problem Statement : Innovative Carbon Financing for clean development at the BoP

The Clean Development Mechanisms (CDMs) allow industrialized countries with Greenhouse gases reduction commitments (called Annex 1 countries) to invest in projects that reduce emissions in developing countries as an alternative to more expensive emission reductions in their own countries. Such projects must establish that the additional incentives, provided by emission reductions credits, are needed for the projects.

However, Selco (Solar Electric Light Company), a prominent social venture providing sustainable energy solutions to rural India, has found it unfeasible to harness any benefits from CDM. Since the company deals with selling lighting to poor households that do not emit significant amounts of greenhouse gases, the process of selling savings on carbon emissions through the Kyoto Protocol’s CDM becomes too expensive and time-consuming for them.

Hence, the Clean Development Mechanism has failed to assist CleanTech enterprises in bringing sustainable solutions to the Base of the Pyramid, and deters inclusive development in countries like India.

Propose an alternative Carbon Financing model that effectively encourages innovations for sustainable development of the masses and takes into account their potential impact. Also, evaluate its feasibility in the Indian context.

Last date of 1st round submission: 20th December 2009

Finals: 16-17th January 2010 during GES

For more details visit  http://www.ecell-iitkgp.org/competitions/Pensez/overview/

Eclairez 2009 is a Social Entrepreneurship Challenge aimed towards those individuals who have the gumption to empower those at the bottom of the pyramid as well as earn profits for themselves while doing so. This competition aims at the amalgamation of students, NGOs, incubators, social entrepreneurs, venture-capitalists and corporations to develop and encourage the spirit of Social entrepreneurship. It is a platform for Social entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative solutions to society’s most pressing social problems. The event will span over a year with regular workshops, mentoring sessions and frequent field visits. The participants will get a chance to perk up their business plan with our mentorship board and convert it into a successful social venture. The mentorship board will consist of Social Entrepreneurs and Venture Capitalists that are ready to join hands to improve society by implementing these innovative ideas aimed at serving those who are at the bottom of pyramid. The funding for the start-ups will be provided by Angel Investors. This event also encourages submissions from working professionals and grass root connectors/

Important dates:

30th November 2009: 1st round submission deadline

16-17 January 2010: Finals during GES

For more details visit  http://www.ecell-iitkgp.org/competitions/Eclairez/overview/