To host GES, city pipped Bengaluru

Hyderabad: The curtains came down on the 8th edition of the Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) on Thursday after three days of networking by nearly 1,500 entrepreneurs, investors and influencers in Hyderabad. However, most were unaware of the factors that favoured Hyderabad over Bengaluru, which had a bigger startup ecosystem than the former.

According to Robert Kemp, deputy minister counselor at the US Embassy, the decision to host the GES 2017 was taken by the Indian government in consultation with the US administration.

“After the United States decided to organise Global Entrepreneurship Summit in India, I believe seven Indian states showed interest in hosting the summit. However, the government of India in consultation with the United States has chosen Hyderabad for the venue,” he said.

Explaining further on the factors that helped Hyderabad to be chosen for GES, he said Hyderabad has an excellent infrastructure and has good road connectivity to the airport, 130 US companies operate out of this city and weather in winter is pleasant. “Apart from these, Hyderabad also has the US consulate. And having our staff in the city would be of great help in organising such a huge event.”

Mr Kemp said the summit has been successful and investors are also happy to witness such vibrancy in the Indian ecosystem. While the results of the interactions and networking may not be available immediately, he said it would definitely help the startup ecosystem in the city.

Asked about the benefits that India could accrue of GES when most of major investors are already in touch with Indian startups, Mr Kemp said the GES has brought to India, especially Hyderabad, many investors who might not have had India on their radar. “The GES has introduced Hyderabad and its vibrant startup ecosystem to many more investors,” he explained.