Graphisads & IIM Lucknow Roll Out 'G Force' Programme To Empower Media Entrepreneurs

Graphisads has partnered with the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow to introduce ‘G Force’, an innovative accelerator programme. This initiative aims to cultivate and empower aspiring entrepreneurs within the media sectors through a dynamic collaboration of industry expertise and academic leadership.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two marks a significant milestone in the industry, bridging the gap between advertising and an academic institution, to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.

Commenting on the partnership, Mukesh Gupta, CMD of Graphisads states, “This collaboration marks an exclusive effort in India, uniting an ad agency with an esteemed academic institution to propel media startups forward.”

“With our robust media presence, client relationships, and extensive network, we are poised to create numerous success stories by investing more than ₹100 Crore along with other institutions in the next 3 years,” he adds.

Arunodaya Bajpai, COO of IIM Lucknow Enterprise Incubation Center adds, “We are happy to collaborate with Graphisads' G-Force and welcome startups in the dynamic media & entertainment sector. With the industry rapidly approaching Rs. 1 lakh crore, coupled with ongoing disruptions, it holds immense growth potential. Our focus spans across key sub-sectors including gamification, event automation, influencer marketing, adtech, DOOH platforms, programmatic media opportunities, and mar-tech. Through personalised guidance, we aim to equip startups for market readiness.”

To enrich the entrepreneurial journey, Graphisads has assembled a Mentor Board comprising industry stalwarts, including Dr. Anurag Batra, Chairman, Exchange4Media & Business World; Anil Dua, CRO of HT Media; Varun Kohli, COO of Times Network; Mona Jain, CRO of Zee Media; and Rajeev Gupta, CEO of Adaan Digital Solutions.

Expressing gratitude to the mentors, Alok Gupta, Director, Graphisads shares, “ We extend heartfelt appreciation to these industry leaders who have generously contributed their expertise to this initiative. This collaboration is our commitment to give back to the industry that has nurtured us.”