Anil BirlaOver the past few months, the Right Idea for Right Impact (RIRI) initiative by Vardaan has evolved into more than just a funding opportunity. It has become a platform to identify and support first-time entrepreneurs with bold ideas who may not yet have the background, resources, or ecosystem connections to bring those ideas to life. As we near the completion of our first cohort, we wanted to reflect on some of the most important lessons we've learned from this experience.
Passion Isn’t Enough - Clarity is Crucial
One of the most inspiring parts of reviewing applications was witnessing the sheer passion of the individuals behind each idea. However, what truly differentiated the top applicants was clarity of thought. Passion without a clear, structured plan often falls short. The best applications outlined:
- A specific social problem
- A unique and implementable solution
- Tangible outcomes
- A realistic timeline and budget
Clarity not only made it easier for us to evaluate the ideas, but also gave us greater confidence in the entrepreneurs’ potential to move toward a proof of concept.
The Power of Lived Experience
A recurring theme among the most compelling submissions was the role of lived experience. Many founders came from the communities they were trying to serve. Whether it was a first-generation learner creating digital literacy programs or someone with a disability advocating for better urban accessibility, these founders brought an authenticity and depth of understanding that can’t be taught.
This reinforced our belief that those closest to the problem are also closest to the solution.
Grassroots Innovation is Thriving
We were consistently amazed by the innovative ideas emerging from India’s Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Often working with limited resources, these aspiring changemakers showcased remarkable creativity and resilience. From sustainable farming models to hyperlocal mental health support groups, the ideas coming from smaller towns and rural areas were often more grounded, frugal, and contextually relevant.
It has become evident that the next wave of social innovation in India will be powered from the ground up.
Early-Stage Entrepreneurs Need More Than Just Capital
While funding is essential to move an idea to proof of concept, it’s not the only thing needed. Many applicants lacked exposure to how to structure a pilot, identify risks, or measure early success. Through our mentorship and sessions, we observed that what first-time changemakers often crave is structured guidance, contextual feedback, and access to early validation tools.
RIRI has taught us that funding must go hand-in-hand with handholding.
Evaluation Metrics Must Balance Head and Heart
One of the more complex parts of running RIRI was evaluating early-stage ideas that had not yet been tested. Social impact is difficult to measure in standard business terms, especially at the ideation stage. ROI for a social enterprise isn’t always about revenue—it could be dignity restored, health improved, or access enabled. Our selection framework evolved to consider both:
- The strength of insight behind the idea
- The feasibility and focus of the proposed proof of concept
- The applicant’s lived experience and motivation
We learned that potential impact cannot be viewed through only one lens.
First-Time Founders Need Safe Spaces to Experiment
For many applicants, this was the first time they had written down their idea or pitched it formally. Creating a supportive environment where they could ask questions, refine their thinking, and explore feasibility was essential. We realized that offering encouragement and honest feedback can be just as powerful as funding.
The goal is not just to select ideas, but to nurture potential.
The Future is Intersectional
Issues like education, climate change, gender, and public health do not exist in silos—and neither should our solutions. Several of the strongest ideas we encountered addressed problems through an intersectional lens. For instance, a program combining menstrual health awareness with economic empowerment for rural women showed us the strength of multi-layered impact.
As funders and facilitators, we must continue to support ideas that don’t just scratch the surface but address the interlinked realities of people’s lives.
The Right Idea for Right Impact initiative was born from a simple belief: that first-time, mission-driven individuals with bold ideas deserve the opportunity to test their thinking. The journey so far has only deepened our conviction.
We’ve seen what works, what early-stage founders need, and most importantly, how important it is to provide accessible, empathetic platforms for those at the very beginning of their journey. As we gear up for our next round, our commitment remains clear: to back ideas that are not just right in intention, but right in impact.
If you're a dreamer, doer, or first-time changemaker, we hope this inspires you to bring your idea forward—because the right time is now.