Slice of Startup Life

Networking is not about quick wins. It is about the long game.

Rushabh Shah

Managing Partner - STIR Advisors

Networking is not about quick wins. It is about the long game.

We often attend events, swap cards, connect on LinkedIn, and then let it fade. The real value is in the follow-ups, the small check-ins, and the occasional exchange of ideas.

Yesterday I had a deep conversation with someone I first met two years ago. Back then there was no agenda, only curiosity. Over time we built trust naturally. That trust led to a fascinating discussion on cross-border opportunities between India and Japan.

Japan’s aging population is pushing companies to look overseas for growth. India’s fast-maturing MSME sector is a natural magnet. Together they open possibilities for acquisitions, joint ventures, and partnerships that could shape the next decade.

This was not a pitch or a negotiation. It was the result of a relationship nurtured over years.

Some of the biggest opportunities do not come from boardrooms. They come from conversations that began long before anyone saw the potential.

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The eChai Effect - In Their Words

"If there’s one phrase that sums up my journey, it’s truly ‘The eChai Effect.’ Six years ago, I simply walked into my first eChai event, not knowing what to expect. The honest conversations, energy, and inspiration from founders and entrepreneurs struck a chord within me. That eChai spark became the catalyst for everything to follow. I proudly say: my entrepreneurship journey started—and keeps evolving—because of eChai. Redicine Medsol’s story is integrally linked to this community. I’ve gained so much, not just as a founder but as a forever volunteer and grateful member of the eChai family. With all my heart, thank you Jatin Bhai and everyone at eChai for shaping, guiding, and supporting my dreams. The eChai Effect will always be a part of my story."

Kush Prajapati

Founder, Redicine Medsol

“eChai has been that turning point in my journey. It gave me a platform when I wasn’t looking for visibility but needed direction. Over the years, it became more than just a network. It became my tribe; a place where conversations sparked collaborations, and strangers became trusted sounding boards. What I value most is how effortlessly eChai brings people together - no airs, no filters, just genuine people with shared dreams. I owe a lot to this community and to Jatin, whose consistency and belief in people have shaped journeys like mine. Forever grateful to be part of something so real.”

Rushabh Shah

Managing Partner - STIR Advisors

"The eChai platform has been super valuable for me - it has helped me gain a deeper understanding of domains in the startup and tech ecosystem. What stands out most is the celebration of knowledge, professional growth, and entrepreneurship - it’s one of the best for the Indian ecosystem. Along the way, I’ve also been fortunate to make some great friendships and connections too."

Shalin (Shawn) Parikh

Founder, MyCPE One

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