Fuselage Innovations Pvt Ltd, led by Devan Chandrasekharan, emerged victorious at the Polar Bear Pitching India Chapter held at the Embassy of Finland in New Delhi. The competition, known for its unique concept, saw eight Indian startups pitching their innovative ideas in a freezing ice hole, adding an element of endurance to the process. Fuselage Innovations earned the chance to present their groundbreaking idea at the Polar Bear Pitching event in Oulu, Finland, on February 27, 2025, with travel sponsorship provided by Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM).
Pitching in Freezing Water: A Unique Challenge
What truly set this competition apart was the challenging environment in which participants pitched their ideas, standing neck-deep in cold water, a concept inspired by the Finnish “Avanto” ice swimming tradition. The icy conditions weren’t just for show; they symbolized the mental resilience and determination required to succeed in the competitive world of startups. Contestants had to present their ideas clearly and confidently while enduring freezing temperatures, demonstrating the strength and focus needed to succeed in the global startup ecosystem.
A Prestigious Global Platform for Innovation
Fuselage Innovations, along with the other participating startups, faced a panel of esteemed judges from prominent organizations, including Business Finland, Infosys, Cyient, and AWE Funds. The startups were evaluated based on their innovation, scalability, and market potential. The winner was not only awarded the chance to pitch at the global Polar Bear Pitching event in Oulu but also received recognition as a leading innovator in the Indian startup scene.
The Road to Finland: What’s Next?
The team at Fuselage Innovations now has the exciting opportunity to showcase their idea to a global audience and potentially secure further investment and collaborations. Along with the exposure on an international stage, the competition’s grand finale in Oulu offers a €10,000 cash prize for the winning startup, providing vital financial support to scale their solutions.
Encouraging Global Collaboration
The Polar Bear Pitching India Chapter emphasized the importance of international collaboration, with Indian startups connecting with Finnish investors and entrepreneurs. This event not only showcased Indian talent but also fostered stronger ties between India and Finland, paving the way for more such cross-border partnerships in the future. The global platform provided Indian startups with an opportunity to expand their reach, access new markets, and gain valuable insights into the global startup ecosystem.
