Interview with Shashank Nigam, Founder & CMO of Udyamita Helpline
Shashank Nigam, a visionary leader and the Founder & CMO of Udyamita Helpline, is a dynamic force in India’s entrepreneurial landscape. Born on July 22, 1993, in Varanasi, and raised in Delhi, Shashank embarked on a journey from an IT professional to an entrepreneur, driven by a passion to support MSMEs. With a diverse background in information technology and a commitment to continuous learning, he leads Udyamita Helpline in empowering startups with cost-effective solutions and guidance for sustainable growth. Shashank’s unwavering dedication is recognized not only in the success of his venture but also in his inclusion in the “10 Visionary Business Leaders Redefining Industries and Inspiring Growth.” His story reflects a blend of cultural roots, technological expertise, and a relentless pursuit of making a positive impact on India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Interviewer: Shashank, it’s a pleasure to have you here. Let’s start with some basics. Can you tell us about your early life and upbringing?
Shashank: Thank you for having me. I was born on July 22, 1993, in Varanasi, and I spent my formative years in Delhi. It was during this time that I developed a keen interest in information technology.
Interviewer: Moving on to your education, you’ve had an interesting journey. Could you share some details about your educational background?
Shashank: Certainly. I started my education at Delhi University but eventually decided to venture into the practical aspects of the IT industry. I hold a Diploma in CTT from Lal Bahadur Shastri Polytechnic, Delhi, and I’m certified as an Information Security Expert. My dedication to continuous learning is reflected in certifications like Google AdWords & Analytics, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, and more.
Interviewer: Your career trajectory is quite diverse. Can you walk us through your professional background?
Shashank: Certainly. I began my career in the IT industry, gaining experience in hardware engineering and technical roles at various companies. These experiences laid the foundation for my entrepreneurial journey.
Interviewer: Speaking of entrepreneurship, in May 2021, you founded Udyamita Helpline. What inspired this transition?
Shashank: I felt a strong calling to assist startups in overcoming challenges, and that led to the inception of Udyamita Helpline. We offer a range of services, including business education, mentorship, government scheme assistance, digital marketing, and more.
Interviewer: Can you share the vision and mission behind Udyamita Helpline?
Shashank: Absolutely. Udyamita Helpline aims to empower MSMEs by providing cost-effective solutions and guidance for sustainable growth. Our headquarters are located in Delhi NCR, India.
Interviewer: Your team and organization have seen significant growth. Could you tell us more about your team and the impact Udyamita Helpline has had in the MSME sector?
Shashank: We have a strong team of seven backend professionals and over 50 business experts. Our focus is on expanding our capabilities to better serve the MSME sector. Currently, our revenue stands at 60 Lakh, and my net worth has reached 10 Crore.
Interviewer: Congratulations on the recognition in the “10 Visionary Business Leaders Redefining Industries and Inspiring Growth” list. How does it feel to be acknowledged in this way?
Shashank: It’s truly humbling. The recognition motivates us to continue our efforts in supporting MSMEs and contributing to the growth of the business landscape.
Interviewer: Shashank, could you share a bit about your personal life? Any hobbies or interests outside of your professional endeavors?
Shashank: Outside of work, I love exploring different parts of the world. It’s a great way to unwind and gain new perspectives.
Interviewer: Shashank, your journey is truly inspiring. Let’s delve a bit into your personal background. Can you share a bit about your family and their influence on your entrepreneurial journey?
Shashank: Of course. I come from a close-knit family – my mother, father, and sister have been a constant source of support and inspiration. Their encouragement played a significant role in shaping my entrepreneurial spirit.
Interviewer: You mentioned being born in Varanasi and spending your early years in Delhi. How have these cultural influences shaped your approach to business and leadership?
Shashank: Varanasi instilled in me a deep appreciation for culture and traditions, while Delhi’s dynamic environment fueled my ambition. This blend has influenced my leadership style, emphasizing both innovation and respect for roots.
Interviewer: Moving on to your business, Udyamita Helpline, can you elaborate on the specific challenges MSMEs face that your organization aims to address?
Shashank: MSMEs often struggle with various challenges – from accessing funds to navigating government schemes. Udyamita Helpline provides tailored solutions, be it through mentorship, digital marketing assistance, or awareness of relevant schemes.
Interviewer: Being involved in the IT industry before venturing into entrepreneurship, how did that background contribute to your success in the business world?
Shashank: The IT industry honed my problem-solving skills and instilled a tech-savvy mindset. These skills have proven invaluable in addressing challenges faced by startups and MSMEs, especially in today’s digital landscape.
Interviewer: You’ve achieved several certifications in diverse areas. How do you balance your time between staying updated with industry trends and leading Udyamita Helpline?
Shashank: Continuous learning is a priority. I allocate dedicated time for staying updated on industry trends, leveraging online platforms and networking opportunities to ensure I’m well-informed.
Interviewer: As the CMO of Udyamita Helpline, how do you approach the marketing strategies for the organization, and what role does digital marketing play?
Shashank: Digital marketing is a cornerstone for us. We leverage various channels to reach our target audience, raise awareness about MSME-related issues, and provide valuable insights to our stakeholders.
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Interviewer: Let’s touch on your philanthropic efforts. Are there any social initiatives or causes that Udyamita Helpline actively supports?
Shashank: We believe in giving back. Udyamita Helpline actively participates in initiatives promoting entrepreneurship in underprivileged communities and supports educational programs for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Interviewer: With the pace of technological advancements, how do you see the role of technology evolving in the MSME sector in the coming years?
Shashank: Technology will be a game-changer for MSMEs. From automation to data analytics, embracing these advancements will be crucial for their growth and competitiveness in the evolving business landscape.
Interviewer: Shashank, you’ve accomplished a lot at a relatively young age. What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those looking to venture into the MSME sector?
Shashank: My advice would be to stay persistent, surround yourself with a supportive team, and be open to learning from both successes and failures. Every experience is a lesson that contributes to your journey.
Interviewer: Shifting gears a bit, as someone who loves exploring the world, do you have a favorite destination or a memorable travel experience you’d like to share?
Shashank: One of my favorite destinations has to be Kyoto, Japan. The blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and technological innovation left a lasting impression on me.
Interviewer: Shashank, your commitment to continuous learning is evident. Can you share a specific learning experience or mentorship moment that significantly influenced your approach to business?
Shashank: Certainly. Early in my career, I had a mentor who emphasized the importance of adaptability and resilience. This lesson stuck with me and has been crucial in navigating the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship.
Interviewer: Considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on businesses, how did Udyamita Helpline adapt to the challenges, and what strategies were implemented to support MSMEs during this period?
Shashank: The pandemic indeed posed challenges. We pivoted to virtual mentorship, increased our digital outreach, and provided resources to help MSMEs adapt to the changing business environment.
Interviewer: Your business, Udyamita Helpline, has seen substantial growth. Can you highlight a specific milestone or achievement that you are particularly proud of?
Shashank: One milestone that stands out is when we reached a cumulative assistance value of 10 Crore. It was a testament to the impact we’ve had in supporting MSMEs on their growth journey.
Interviewer: Let’s talk about your leadership style. How do you foster a collaborative and innovative work culture within your organization?
Shashank: Open communication and encouraging a culture of innovation are key. We have regular brainstorming sessions, and every team member’s input is valued. This creates a dynamic and collaborative work environment.
Interviewer: The MSME sector is diverse. Are there specific industries or niches that Udyamita Helpline focuses on, and why?
Shashank: We aim to cater to a wide range of industries within the MSME sector. However, we’ve observed significant demand from sectors like IT, manufacturing, and services. Our goal is to provide customized solutions based on the unique challenges each industry faces.
Interviewer: Considering your background in information technology, how do you envision the role of technology in reshaping traditional industries, especially in the MSME sector?
Shashank: Technology will be a catalyst for transformation. From adopting e-commerce solutions to implementing data-driven strategies, technology will empower MSMEs to become more agile and competitive.
Interviewer: Building and leading a team is no small feat. What qualities do you look for when assembling your team, and how do you ensure a cohesive and motivated work environment?
Shashank: Beyond skills, I look for individuals who share our passion for supporting MSMEs. Team synergy is crucial, and we foster a positive work environment through open communication, regular feedback, and recognizing individual contributions.
Interviewer: On a more personal note, how do you manage work-life balance, especially given the demands of entrepreneurship?
Shashank: Balancing work and personal life is challenging but essential. I prioritize time for family, self-care, and hobbies to maintain a healthy balance. It’s crucial for long-term sustainability.
Interviewer: Speaking of hobbies, you mentioned a love for exploring the world. Are there specific travel destinations on your bucket list, and why?
Shashank: Antarctica has always fascinated me. The untouched landscapes and unique ecosystems make it a dream destination. Exploring such remote places offers a different perspective on the world.
Interviewer: With Udyamita Helpline contributing to the growth of MSMEs, do you have a vision for the broader impact you hope to make on India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem?
Shashank: Absolutely. I envision Udyamita Helpline being a catalyst for positive change in India’s entrepreneurial landscape, creating a ripple effect where successful MSMEs contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
Interviewer: Entrepreneurship is often a journey filled with ups and downs. Can you share a challenging moment in your entrepreneurial journey and how you navigated through it?
Shashank: One significant challenge was securing initial funding for Udyamita Helpline. It required relentless efforts in pitching our vision to investors. Through perseverance and belief in our mission, we successfully secured the necessary support.
Interviewer: Given the evolving nature of business, how do you stay ahead of the curve and anticipate changes in the market to benefit Udyamita Helpline and its clients?
Shashank: Continuous market research, staying connected with industry leaders, and actively participating in forums help us stay informed. This allows us to adapt our strategies and offerings to meet the ever-changing needs of MSMEs.
Interviewer: Shashank, as we conclude, is there a quote or mantra that you live by, especially in your role as an entrepreneur?
Shashank: “Embrace change, stay curious, and never stop learning.” This mindset has been pivotal in my entrepreneurial journey, guiding me through challenges and fostering continuous growth.
Interviewer: Shashank, thank you for your time and insights. We wish you continued success in your endeavors with Udyamita Helpline.
Shashank: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure sharing my experiences and vision with you.
