Hello Mumbai Start-up Desk
AI for Startups: Hands-on AI Workshop for MSMEs and Women Entrepreneurs
Key Highlights of the Event:
Date: 10 October 2026
Venue: Usha Mittal Institute of Technology (UMIT), SNDT Women’s University, Juhu, Mumbai
Organisers: FICCI FLO Mumbai, Innovari and TruScalar AI
- Introduction
The AI for Startups workshop was held on 10 October 2026 at Usha Mittal Institute of Technology, SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai. The event brought together business professionals, entrepreneurs, MSME representatives and students to explore the practical applications of artificial intelligence in business.
Organised through a collaboration involving FICCI FLO Mumbai, Innovari and TruScalar AI, the workshop focused on demonstrating how AI can support business growth, improve operational efficiency, strengthen marketing strategies and enable data-driven decision-making.
- SpeakerSessions
The programme commenced with presentations by Shalini Chakelam and Rakesh Vuppu, who shared their perspectives on artificial intelligence, technology and business transformation.
Shalini Chakelam – Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, TruScalar AI
Shalini Chakelam discussed AI strategy, product engineering, intelligent agents and automation. Her presentation highlighted how AI-powered platforms can streamline workflows, automate repetitive tasks and improve operational efficiency. The session emphasised the importance of translating business challenges into practical technology solutions.
Rakesh Vuppu – Consultant, TruScalar AI
Rakesh Vuppu shared insights into the business applications of AI and analytics, drawing on his corporate and consulting experience. His presentation covered areas such as customer acquisition, digital marketing, search engine optimisation, campaign performance and return on investment (ROI). The discussion highlighted how businesses can use AI tools to improve performance and make informed decisions.
Together, the presentations connected the technological capabilities of AI with their practical applications in business.
3.KeyLearning Areas
The workshop covered several areas in which AI can support startups, MSMEs and entrepreneurs:
Market and competitor intelligence: Using AI to analyse market trends and support strategic planning.
Marketing and lead generation: Exploring automation for customer outreach and acquisition.
Content and brand building: Applying AI tools to content creation and digital visibility.
Customer engagement: Using data-driven insights to improve conversions and customer retention.
AI tools and return on investment: Identifying suitable tools and evaluating their business value and implementation costs.
The session encouraged participants to consider practical ways to incorporate AI into business workflows and improve operational outcomes.
4.Organisersand Distinguished Personalities
The workshop was supported by the collaborative efforts of FICCI FLO Mumbai, Innovari and TruScalar AI.
Seema Saroj, Chairperson of FICCI FLO Mumbai, was among the distinguished personalities associated with the event. She is also the founder of Roovedaa, a plant-based luxury skincare brand, and is associated with Vedisaah Luxuries. Her professional work connects entrepreneurship with women’s economic empowerment and business networking.
Megha Suhas, Secretary of FICCI FLO Mumbai, was also associated with the organising team. Her involvement reflected the organisation’s focus on professional networking, entrepreneurship and opportunities for women in business.
Innovari contributed to connecting students with industry professionals, creating opportunities for interaction between academic learning and real-world business experience.
5.KashmiriBasket Global Stall
An additional highlight of the event was the Kashmiri Basket Global stall set up outside the auditorium and led by Ali Sir.
The stall introduced attendees to an entrepreneurial venture associated with Kashmiri products, adding a cultural and commercial dimension to the workshop. Participants and stakeholders had the opportunity to explore the venture alongside the discussions on innovation, business development and entrepreneurship.
6.CertificateDistribution
At the conclusion of the workshop, all participants received certificates of participation in recognition of their involvement in the session.
The certificates marked the completion of an enriching learning experience and acknowledged the participants’ engagement with the applications of artificial intelligence in business.
7.Lunchand Networking
Following the formal programme and certificate distribution, speakers, organisers, stakeholders and participants gathered for lunch.
The informal gathering provided an opportunity to exchange ideas, interact with fellow attendees and strengthen professional connections. It also brought the event to a warm and positive close.
8.KeyOutcomes
The workshop provided several valuable outcomes:
Increased awareness of AI applications in business and entrepreneurship.
Exposure to automation, AI-powered platforms and data-driven decision-making.
Insights into digital marketing, customer acquisition and business performance.
Interaction between students, entrepreneurs and industry professionals.
Exposure to an entrepreneurial venture through the Kashmiri Basket Global stall.
Recognition of participants through certificates of participation.
Networking opportunities among speakers, stakeholders and attendees.
9.Conclusion
The AI for Startups workshop was a valuable industry–academia engagement that brought together technology, entrepreneurship and practical business learning. Through expert presentations, interactive discussions and networking opportunities, the event encouraged participants to explore how artificial intelligence can address real-world business challenges.
The collaboration between FICCI FLO Mumbai, Innovari and TruScalar AI helped create a platform for learning and professional engagement. The Kashmiri Basket Global stall, certificate distribution and concluding lunch further enriched the overall experience.
The event concluded on a positive note, leaving participants with fresh perspectives on AI adoption, business innovation and the importance of collaboration between industry and academia.
