NEO TV has finally launched Pakistan’s first ever business reality show, Idea Croro’n Ka (Million Dollar Idea). The red carpet event, attended by prominent businessmen, potential investors, and media celebrities was hosted by Dr. Abdur Rehman at Superior University, Lahore. This initiative will be anchored and led by Mr. Nabeel A. Qadeer, a well-respected and experienced member of the entrepreneurial eco-system.
Mr. Qadeer, currently serves as the Director-Entrepreneurship at Punjab Information Technology Board. The vision of a business reality show was co-conceived by him and Dr. Abdur Rehman to fill the much needed gap in business and financial intelligence amongst aspiring entrepreneurs in Pakistan.
“Pakistani youth needs to see relatable stories of young Entrepreneurs. It is these entrepreneurs who will transform Pakistan and television is the best medium to bring them into limelight.” (Nabeel A Qadeer)
Judges for the First Season
The first season will feature seasoned businessmen as judges and eventual investors. The list includes Salim Ghauri, (Founder and CEO at Netsol), Naeem Zamindar (Pakistan Country Director and CEO at Acumen), and Humayun Mazhar (Founder, CEO and Chairman at CresVentures). Many more corporate leads and successful businessmen have agreed to feature in the show as it progresses.
Dr. Umar Saif, Chairman Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), will also feature as a “Business Expert / Advisor” to critically evaluate business models and market viability.
“In Pakistan we need to develop a culture of entrepreneurship, with young people developing an appreciation, appetite and skill to dream up ideas and develop high-tech startups as viable businesses. This show is an important step to develop this culture and spread the germ of entrepreneurship in our youth.”
The Program Segments
In the first segment of the show three promising startups will pitch their ideas, seeking mentorship and investment. Two other interesting segments of the show include ‘Himmat Karo Pakistan’ and ‘Pakistan kay Superheroes’.
Himmat Karo Pakistan – This segment aims to facilitate small scale entrepreneurs raise investment and expand their businesses. This will empower aspiring entrepreneurs to put their ideas to life and experiment.
‘Pakistan Kay Superheroes’ an initiative led by the Chairman NEO, Mr. Nabeel Qadeer seeks to feature the journey of successful entrepreneurs to inspire young businesses and lay down the principles that will ensure the attainment of their respective goals .
Pakistan’s very own Shark Tank/Dragon’s Den?
The show also draws inspiration from Shark Tank/Dragon’s Den, the business reality programs produced by ABC,TV and BBC. Idea Croro’n Ka also intends to feature “Sharks” and “Dragons” as judges; self-made, multi-millionaire tycoons who mean business.
The show will give people from all walks of life a chance to chase their Billion Dollar Dream. Startups interested in pitching at‘Idea Croro’n Ka’ will finally have an audience with the power to inspire, incubate and invest.
A Platform for Ambition
While sports, dramas, music and conflict sells well on television, this show, for the very first time will provide a dynamic platform that thrives on ambition and seeks to nurture entrepreneurship across the country.
We envision that TV channels will initiate shows of similar nature to promote the entrepreneurial eco-system and provide a much needed bridge between the capital and the aspiring entrepreneur. The show is expected to go on air in March 2017. Application for participation will be featured on the NEO TV website soon.
Information Source: Team @ Idea Croro’n Ka
