Amazon introduces 'Launchpad' in India for budding entrepreneurs

Image: Mike Segar / Reuters

At a time when startups seems to be the ‘buzzword’ in the country and the government, on its part, is taking steps to foster entrepreneurship through various initiatives, Amazon has introduced its global startup programme ‘Amazon Launchpad’ in India. It will help entrepreneurs launch, market and distribute their products globally to all Amazon customers. So far, the launchpad, which was first unveiled in 2015, has helped over 1,200 startups launch their products worldwide.  

In India, the online retail giant has tied-up with various partners, including the DIPP’s startup India Initiative for the same; the others being Nasscom, Indian Angel Network and risk capital funds. “The idea is to encourage innovation in the country,” says Amit Agarwal, vice president and country manager for Amazon India. “The platform will help entrepreneurs increase their sales and attain visibility.”  

The burgeoning startup ecosystem in India has witnessed a significant makeover over the 2-3 years, led by the boom in the new economy sector. Since early 2013, a bevy of entrepreneurs have come forward to launch their own ventures in diverse areas, using the ecommerce model.

“The government is taking steps to provide a business-friendly environment and motivate the young population of the country to come forward and showcase their innovation,” says DIPP secretary Ramesh Abhishek. “We are collaborating with all stakeholders to provide the right infrastructure to facilitate entrepreneurship.”  

What makes India an attractive destination for entrepreneurship is its demographics — around 65 percent of the country’s 1.3 billion population is below the age of 35. “Startups are important in every way. It can help generate several jobs over the next few years,” said Padmaja Ruparel, president at Indian Angel Network.