Mumbai: WAVEX 2025, a pivotal segment of the World Audio-Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES), has established itself as a vital hub for startups in the media and entertainment (M&E) sector. The event, which took place recently, aims to create a dedicated angel network to bolster innovation within this dynamic industry.
During a panel discussion, Ashutosh Mohle, Joint Director of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, underscored WAVEX’s vision of offering a national platform for emerging startups. He expressed optimism that initiatives like WAVEX would drive innovation and entrepreneurship in a rapidly evolving landscape. Mohle’s remarks reflect a broader commitment to enhancing visibility for these businesses in the M&E sector.
Sandeep Jhingran, Chief Growth Officer at the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IMAI), highlighted the enthusiastic response to WAVEX 2025, revealing that over a thousand applications were submitted by aspiring entrepreneurs eager to showcase their ideas. “Thirty startups were selected to pitch directly to investors, with several already engaging in active negotiations,” he noted. Jhingran emphasized the importance of nurturing startups in the M&E field, pointing out the unique challenges these enterprises often face.
Investor perspectives were integral to the dialogue at WAVEX. Rajesh Joshi, Venue Partner at Warmup Ventures, shared his transition from a startup founder to an investor, indicating that they are currently in discussions with 11 different startups. This marks a significant shift in investment interest within the M&E domain. Joshi expressed confidence that WAVEX is helping to transform the perception of investing in this sector, which has historically deterred many investors.
Mustafa Harnesswala, Founder of CABIL, echoed this sentiment, stating that traditional reticence among investors regarding M&E startups is beginning to change due to initiatives like WAVEX. Harnesswala also mentioned efforts to establish a dedicated angel network for M&E startups, further enhanced by international partnerships aimed at broadening investment prospects.
The panel addressed various challenges within the industry, including how investors discern valuable content. Joshi cited “Giggle,” a startup focusing on combatting cyberbullying and harmful material on social media, as an exemplary model of responsible innovation. This highlights the growing need for meaningful content in an increasingly digital world.
On the issue of gender representation, Jhingran acknowledged the underrepresentation of women entrepreneurs in the M&E sector. He committed to enhancing participation in future WAVEX editions, aiming to attract more women-led startups to the platform. The event’s format, providing one-on-one pitching opportunities for selected startups, was praised by industry leaders for fostering direct interactions with investors.
As WAVEX 2025 concludes, it is clear that the summit has made substantial strides in supporting emerging talent and innovative projects in the media and entertainment landscape. With an eye towards an inclusive future, initiatives like the proposed angel network can significantly transform the opportunities available to startups in this fast-paced industry.
Tags: WAVEX 2025, Media and Entertainment, Startups, Innovation, Investment, Gender Representation, Digital News
Original Source: https://www.sentinelassam.com/more-news/national-news/wavex-2025-aims-to-build-dedicated-angel-network-for-media-and-entertainment-startups
Category : National News
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Publish Date: 2025-05-05 10:25:00
