Starting a business takes heavy execution, regular testing and hard cash, not just an idea. For young entrepreneurs, it involves recognising a real challenge, knowing your customers, managing resources and remaining flexible. Dr. Saarthak Bakshi’s entrepreneurial journey offers practical lessons for those looking to convert an idea into a sustainable business.
About Dr. Saarthak Bakshi
Dr. Saarthak Bakshi is the Founder & CEO of Risaa IVF and co-founder of Neos Angels, where he works as an angel and startup investor. Through Neos Angels, he has invested in over 30 startups across healthtech, edtech, consumer brands and social impact, supporting founders with capital and strategic guidance.
He did his graduation in Computer Science Technology in 2009, MBA in 2013, Advanced Management Program for Healthcare in 2018, PhD in Finance in 2019 and an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration in 2022.
His recognitions include Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia, Entrepreneur 35 Under 35, Business Connect 40 Under 40, Business World 40 Under 40, Medgate 40 Under 40, AsiaOne 40 Under 40 and BW Healthcare 40 Under 40.
His professional engagements also extend to national and international platforms. He has served as National Brand Communication Co-Chair at the All India Management Association (AIMA) and has been associated with the G20 Young Entrepreneurs Alliance and Indo-German Young Leaders Forum. His speaking engagements include various TEDx talks and international conferences, where he has actively discussed entrepreneurship, healthcare and innovation.
Start With A Real Challenge
A successful business starts when you understand a genuine need. Young entrepreneurs should consider what the problems are that the consumers are facing and see whether the solution offered will make a difference to them.
Key pointers to keep in mind:
- Do some serious market research and see what the competitors are doing
- Talk to potential customers before investing any significant resources
- Test the idea on a smaller level to understand what the consumers want and where there are any gaps
- Set achievable objectives in the beginning so that one can focus while building momentum
- Create the team with the required skills so that each individual can perform a specific task
Understanding Finance And Planning
Financial planning is essential as you develop your business. It is important for entrepreneurs to have knowledge of costs of operations, cash flow, revenue models, and financing needs in order to expand your business.
A few pointers for financial planning:
- Approach growth strategically rather than simply increasing the size of the organisation
- Conduct regular performance evaluations and use feedback to guide decisions
- Stay prepared to adapt as market situations change and new challenges emerge
- Learn continuously from experience, since entrepreneurship rarely follows a fixed path
Dr. Saarthak Bakshi’s journey across healthcare entrepreneurship and startup investing shows the importance of continuous learning, innovation and strategic thinking which could be effective in future.
A Roadmap For Young Entrepreneurs
Building a business is a process of learning, testing and improving. For young entrepreneurs, the fundamentals are simple:
- Solve a real problem
- Understand the customer
- Execute consistently
- Build a capable team
- Manage finances responsibly
- Remain adaptable
The story of Dr. Saarthak Bakshi provides a practical example of how these principles could help convert an idea into a sustainable venture.
