Bengaluru, August 31: The LaLiT Ashok Bengaluru is proud to host Next Billion Forum 3.0, the flagship annual forum of Next Bharat Ventures IFSC, On 28 August 2026. The forum brings together entrepreneurs, investors, corporates, policymakers, ecosystem leaders and an international delegation from Japan to explore the opportunities shaping the next phase of India’s growth, focusing on Quality of life Enhancement for India 2 and India 3.
Held under the theme “Bharat 2047: Empowering Great Entrepreneurs, Creating Greater Impact for the Next Billion,” the third edition of the Next Billion Forum focuses on the entrepreneurs and innovations that can contribute to a more inclusive, technology-enabled and globally competitive India. A key focus of this year’s forum is Artificial Intelligence for the Next Billion, alongside conversations around entrepreneurship, innovation, livelihoods, rural India and India–Japan collaboration. The day-long programme at The LaLiT Ashok Bengaluru extends beyond the main forum and brought together multiple engagements designed to connect capital, enterprise and innovation. These include startup pitching sessions connecting emerging entrepreneurs with investors, a Corporate Clinic facilitating potential business partnerships between startups and established companies, a curated exhibition showcasing impact-focused startups and solutions, and the main Next Billion Forum in the evening, followed by networking and dinner.
The event also brings together a distinguished delegation from Japan, including senior business leaders, institutional representatives and members of the Suzuki ecosystem, creating opportunities for deeper India–Japan dialogue beyond the traditional mobility sector. The forum aims to showcase the breadth of India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and the potential for collaboration across technology, manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, financial inclusion, livelihoods and other sectors serving the Next Billion.
The LaLiT Ashok Bengaluru’s Kalinga conference facility, spanning approximately 10,800 sq. ft., will host the main forum, while the hotel’s expansive event infrastructure will support the various engagements taking place throughout the day. The hotel is also extending its hospitality and accommodation services to visiting international delegates and business leaders. Next Bharat Ventures, an impact-focused investment Fund backed by Japan, supports entrepreneurs building solutions for India’s next billion citizens. Through its investment and founder ecosystem, NBV works across areas including livelihoods, agriculture, financial inclusion, healthcare, climate resilience, rural commerce, manufacturing and technology. The Next Billion Forum serves as a platform to bring this broader ecosystem together and create meaningful connections between entrepreneurs, investors, corporates and global partners.
Commenting on hosting the event, Mr. Younis Khan, Hotel Manager, The LaLiT Ashok Bengaluru, said: “It is a privilege for The LaLiT Ashok Bengaluru to host the Next Billion Forum, an initiative that brings together entrepreneurship, innovation and meaningful India–Japan engagement. The scale and diversity of the programme, from startup pitching and corporate engagement to the curated exhibition and the evening forum, make it a particularly exciting platform for dialogue and collaboration. As one of Bengaluru’s established five-star hotels, we bring extensive experience in hosting national and international conferences, business delegations and high-value gatherings. Our versatile event spaces, culinary expertise and experienced hospitality team enable us to create seamless experiences for diverse audiences. We are delighted to welcome the distinguished Indian and Japanese delegates and to support a platform that celebrates entrepreneurship and the opportunities shaping India’s future.”
Mr. Sachin Ahuja, Founding Member, Next Bharat Ventures, said:
“We are deeply grateful to The LaLiT Ashok Bengaluru and its entire team for the warmth, hospitality and exceptional support extended to us and our international delegates. It is especially meaningful to build this association with the Suri Group, given its four-decade relationship with Suzuki through Subros.”
