Nikhil Kamath's Namma Bengaluru Challenge: What Is It?

Nikhil Kamath, founder of Zerodha has taken to Twitter to announce Namma Bengaluru challenge. 

“Bangalore has given me everything I have.” wrote Kamath in a tweet. "This city, with all its challenges, has a unique resilience. I trust that Bangaloreans, especially the ones brainstorming in cafés and late-night workspaces, can find solutions to anything. We need more changemakers to step up and shape Bengaluru’s future. To every thinker and every doer out there who believes in bettering our city - the Namma Bengaluru Challenge is for you.” he wrote.

What is Namma Bengaluru challenge?

Namma Bengaluru means ‘Our Bengaluru’ in Kannada.  Through the Namma Bengaluru challenge Kamath aims to sponsor initiatives that work towards making Bengaluru a safer, friendlier, and more liveable place. The challenge is open for changemakers who work with for as well as not-for-profit initiatives. The nominee has to offer a  fresh perspective or approach to solving challenges faced by the city, which is across the city and not locally located. 

The proposed project must be achievable with the available funding. The solution must have the potential to grow and benefit a large population across the city.  Applicants have to demonstrate they are fully committed to this initiative. The selected applicants will receive INR 50 Lakhs in funding. 

How to apply?

The candidates should apply on their official website https://www.unboxingblr.com/namma-bengaluru-challenge. People have to submit a detailed form about their project, the issue it solves, and how the candidate plans on tackling it. On the same form, the candidate has to submit a five minute video introducing themselves and elaborating why their solution matters to Bengaluru. The shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual discussion with a selection panel to dwell deeper on their idea. The final selections will be announced and the ones chosen will be invited to a kickoff where they will receive the grant and share their vision with other changemakers in the city. The main event will be held at Bengaluru International Centre on 13th December 2024.