What Is MAARG & How Can It Be A Game-changer For Entrepreneurs?

In the vast landscape of entrepreneurship, navigating the path to success can sometimes feel like a treacherous journey. From the iconic mentor-student duo of Mr. Miyagi and Daniel in "The Karate Kid" to the wise words of Yoda guiding Luke Skywalker in "Star Wars," the power of mentorship is evident. In this article, we'll explore how a mentor can play a pivotal role in scaling new heights, and how the MAARG Portal by Startup India connects entrepreneurs with the mentors they need to thrive in their entrepreneurial odyssey.

India's startup ecosystem is thriving, currently ranked as the third largest in the world. To further stimulate its growth, Startup India is working diligently to catalyze the startup culture and establish a robust and inclusive ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship. In this article, we will delve into the MAARG Portal by Startup India, its significance, and the multitude of benefits it offers to startups. Let's explore how this platform is revolutionizing the Indian startup landscape.

What is the MAARG Portal?

The MAARG Portal, often referred to as the National Mentorship Platform by Startup India, invites startup companies to register and benefit from its invaluable resources. The Department for the Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), a division of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has issued a call for applications from aspiring startups. India boasts over 82,000 DPIIT-recognized businesses and 107 unicorns, solidifying entrepreneurship as the backbone of the nation's economic success.

Igniting the Startup Ecosystem: Startup India Mission

Startup India, aiming to propel India's position as the third-largest startup ecosystem worldwide, strives to foster a thriving culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. By providing a conducive environment for startups, India aims to build a robust ecosystem that encourages their growth. In this endeavor, the MAARG Portal plays a pivotal role by offering a one-stop platform for startups seeking mentorship across diverse industries, functions, stages, locations, and demographics.

Phases of the MAARG Portal

The operationalization of the MAARG Portal is divided into three distinct phases, each serving a crucial purpose in empowering startups:

• Phase I: Mentors 

This phase witnessed a seamless launch, with over 400 experienced advisors from various fields coming onboard. These mentors bring their expertise to guide and support startups in their journey towards success.

• Phase II: Onboarding New Businesses 

Starting from November 14, 2022, the DPIIT facilitates the onboarding process for new businesses through the MAARG Portal. This step ensures that startups can easily access the platform's resources and opportunities.

• Phase III: Launch and Mentor Matchmaking 

In the final phase, the MAARG Portal is officially launched, providing an intelligent matchmaking system that pairs mentors with mentees. This innovative approach ensures effective and personalized mentorship for startup companies.

What are the Features of the MAARG Portal?

The MAARG Portal extends a multitude of benefits to startups, providing them with invaluable resources and support. Let's explore some key advantages:

• Effective Mentorship

The portal facilitates effective and knowledgeable mentorship for startup companies, ensuring they receive expert guidance and support. 

• Outcome Tracking

Through an outcome-oriented mechanism, startups can track and evaluate their mentor-mentee engagements, enabling timely progress assessment. 

• Global Expertise

With an AI-based matchmaking system, startups can connect with industry experts, successful founders, investors, and academics worldwide. This global network offers personalized guidance on growth strategies. 

• User-Friendly Interface

The MAARG Portal is equipped with user-friendly features such as personalized mentorship programs, a mobile-friendly interface, recognition for contributing mentors, and options for video and audio calls.

What are the Functions of the MAARG Portal?

• AI-powered Mentor Matching: Leveraging an advanced AI engine to connect startups with mentors who possess relevant expertise and industry knowledge.
• Tracking Mentor-Startup Interactions: Monitoring and analyzing interactions between mentors and startups to ensure meaningful and impactful engagements that drive positive outcomes.
• Seamless Video Calls and Communication: Enabling video calls and facilitating smooth communication channels within the platform for convenient and effective mentor-startup interactions.
• Mobile-Friendly Interface: Designing a user-friendly interface that is optimized for mobile devices, ensuring ease of use and accessibility for startups and mentors on the go.
• Recognition and Benefits for Mentors: Recognizing and rewarding the contributions of mentors within the MAARG program, providing incentives and benefits to acknowledge their valuable support.
• Custom Program Facilitation: Collaborating with ecosystem enablers to host tailored programs that address specific needs and challenges of startups, fostering a conducive environment for their growth.
• Feedback, Query, and Grievance Mechanism: Establishing a robust feedback system where startups and mentors can provide input, seek clarification, and address any concerns or grievances they may have during their engagement in the program.

How Startups Can Register On MAARG Portal?

1. Visit the official website of the MAARG Portal.
2. Click on the "Startup Application" on the homepage.
3. Create an account by clicking "Create Account" on the right side of the page.
4. Fill in all the required details, including name, email, mobile, and password, and click the "Register" button.

How Mentors Can Register On MAARG Portal?

1. Visit the official website of the MAARG Portal.
2. Click on "Mentor Application" at the top of the homepage.
3. Create an account by clicking the button on the right side of the page.
4. Fill out the form with the requested information, including name, email, mobile number, and password. Then, click the "Register" button.

How to login on the MAARG Portal?

1. Visit the official MAARG Portal website.
2. Click on the "Startup Application" on the homepage.
3. Enter your username and password.
4. Alternatively, you can log in using your Google account by clicking on the Google icon and providing your account details.

The MAARG Portal by Startup India revolutionizes the Indian startup landscape by providing invaluable mentorship and support. As India's startup ecosystem continues to flourish, this platform serves as a catalyst for growth, innovation, and entrepreneurial success. By leveraging the MAARG Portal's resources, startups can connect with industry experts, track their progress, and receive personalized guidance. Join the MAARG Portal today and embark on a transformative journey toward startup excellence.