In the vibrant atmosphere of IIT Bombay, during the high-spirited Techfest International Blockchain Summit, two insightful individuals, Karan Gill and Mahak Kalra, discovered an idea that would later be transformed into SwapSo.io. Leading the summit, they noticed a significant gap in the understanding and awareness of blockchain technology among the Indian populace. This insight led to the birth of SwapSo, an edtech platform destined to revolutionise the way online learning is approached in India.
Redefining Online Learning
Born out of a need to tackle the low, around 2% only, completion rates in online education, SwapSo introduces a novel concept. It offers learners the flexibility to choose course durations and an unprecedented marketplace to resell unused course access. This innovative approach not only motivates learners to complete their courses but also makes education more accessible and affordable.
Navigating Challenges with Resilience
The path from an idea to its execution was filled with obstacles. Initially, the founders were confronted with a scarcity of technical resources and the daunting task of assembling a dedicated team. However, their perseverance and strategic thinking bore fruit when they secured over $100k in credits through the Microsoft founders hub program, laying the groundwork for SwapSo’s development.
A Team Driven by Innovation
The SwapSo team, including the founders, is a dynamic ensemble of six engineers. Their diverse expertise, ranging from technical prowess to business strategy and design innovation, comes from prestigious backgrounds including IIT Bombay and significant accolades in hackathons. Together, they form the backbone of SwapSo, steering the startup towards success.
Championing Women Entrepreneurs
Co-founder Mahak Kalra’s journey with SwapSo has been empowering. The encouragement from fellow women entrepreneurs and networks dedicated to supporting women in business has been instrumental. This support network has not only bolstered her confidence but also highlighted the significance of community and resilience in the entrepreneurial realm.
Embracing Change and Fostering Innovation
SwapSo’s ability to adapt to market changes and challenges has been key to its growth. From pivoting its initial model to embracing new technologies, the startup has consistently evolved. This dedication to innovation and a user-centric approach has enabled SwapSo to cultivate a community-driven educational platform.
Envisioning a Future of Accessible Education
SwapSo aims to democratise education, making it accessible to all, regardless of their financial background. By building a community-governed ecosystem, the startup seeks to eliminate financial barriers to learning. Looking forward, SwapSo envisions expanding its reach as a global platform, enriching the learning experience through wider course offerings and corporate partnerships.
Wisdom from the WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre
The founders’ journey has been significantly enriched by their experience with the WISE SNDTWU Incubation Centre. The mentorship, networking opportunities, and nurturing environment provided by WISE have been pivotal in SwapSo’s development. This support has not only refined their business strategy but also broadened their vision for the future.
Inspiring Women Entrepreneurs
For those embarking on their entrepreneurial journey, the founders of SwapSo stress the importance of believing in one’s vision, the power of a supportive network, and the value of community. They encourage women entrepreneurs to seize opportunities, embrace continuous learning, and never underestimate the impact of their unique perspectives.
The Legacy of SwapSo
From its inception at a blockchain summit to its emergence in the edtech space, SwapSo symbolises innovation, perseverance, and the spirit of entrepreneurship. Founders Karan Gill and Mahak Kalra have not only addressed a critical challenge in online education but also set a precedent for future entrepreneurs. As SwapSo continues to grow and redefine online learning, its journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring founders across India, reminding us that with vision, determination, and the right support everything is possible.
Leave a Reply