Introduction

In today’s competitive academic world, innovation favors those who dare to act fast and think smart. A remarkable example of this spirit comes from St. Francis de Sales College, Bengaluru, where five B.Com students turned a simple AgriTech concept into a Top 5 victory at a National Level B-Plan Competition hosted by IIM Bangalore (IIMB).

Competing against over 80 colleges across India — mostly elite business schools — this young team proved that mindset, teamwork, and guided innovation can outperform experience.

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A Moment of Pride for the Institution

Sharing his happiness, the Principal of St. Francis de Sales College, Fr. Binu Edathumparambil, said:

“Five of our BCom students participated in a national competition conducted by IIM Bangalore. More than 80 colleges participated, most of them Business Schools. Only two colleges from Bangalore were shortlisted and we were one of them. In the finals, our students made it to the Top 5. Incredible achievement! Congratulations to the students and Shwetha Ma’am who guided them.”

This recognition highlights the commitment of both students and mentors in shaping future innovators.

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Where the Journey Began

The team approached the Institute of Inspiring Innovation (iii) to prepare for the National Level B-Plan Competition at IIM Bangalore.

When they arrived on 20th January 2026, they had:

• ✅ Only a raw concept
• ✅ No presentation deck
• ✅ No structured business plan
• ✅ Just 4 days to prepare

They had never worked together before and came from different sections and academic levels. Facing experienced B-School teams nationwide, the challenge was tough — but their enthusiasm was stronger.

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Learning Innovation in Action

Their chosen idea focused on AgriTech, addressing real-world problems in India’s farming ecosystem.

At III, they were introduced to:

• 🔹 FOUND Framework
• 🔹 Golden Rose Model of Innovation

These frameworks helped them convert ideas into actionable business models. The students learned:

• How innovation is structured
• How teamwork accelerates performance
• How to pitch ideas with confidence

The college also selected the book “FOUND” as a reference guide, reinforcing their learning journey. By the end of the sessions, the team left the Business Labs energized and committed.

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The Big Stage at IIM Bangalore

On 25th January 2026, the team arrived at IIM Bangalore with 79 other teams from across India. It was a long, intense day of presentations and evaluation.

By night, only 15 teams would be shortlisted.

At around 10 PM, the announcement came — the St. Francis de Sales College team made the Top 15.

The next day, 26th January (Republic Day), they presented their AgriTech innovation before a panel of judges at IIMB.

👉 And the result?
They were declared among the Top 5 Teams in the Nation.

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Words That Captured the Journey

After the selection, their professor shared:

“Thanks Naveen Lakkur, the team got selected for the final round today 🙏 Greatly appreciate your guidance.”

And the reply was:

“Congratulations team… All the very best 👍👍.”

Sometimes, a few simple words summarize months of effort and belief.

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Why This Story Matters

This achievement goes beyond a trophy. It teaches students:

🌟 How to work under pressure

🌟 How to collaborate quickly

🌟 How to transform ideas into impact

🌟 How to compete with confidence

These young minds emerged not just as competitors, but as Young Stars ready for leadership and innovation.

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Final Thoughts

From a rough idea to a national platform, from strangers to a high-performing team, this journey reflects the power of the right mindset and mentorship.

At the Institute of Inspiring Innovation, we believe every student carries an innovator within. With the right frameworks, exposure, and courage, success becomes inevitable.

✨ Start with your idea. Build your team. Trust the process.

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Call to Action

🚀 Want to prepare your students for national competitions and innovation challenges?

At the Institute of Inspiring Innovation (iii), we empower youth with:

• Innovation frameworks
• Startup thinking
• Pitch training
• Leadership mindset programs

📩 Connect with us to nurture your next generation of innovators.

👉 Because every great journey starts with a single inspired idea.