SIBM Pune’s Team Connection Wins Nothing Incubator 2025 in India with AR-Based STEM Learning Idea

Pune, India – October 29, 2025: London-based consumer tech brand Nothing has announced the winners of its Nothing Incubator program in India, crowning Team Connection from Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM), Pune as the national champions. The program, themed “Making Tech Fun Again”, aimed to tap into India’s brightest young minds and celebrate innovation at the intersection of technology and creativity.

Winning Idea: Augmented Reality for Interactive STEM Learning

Team Connection — comprising Atmarani Mohanty, Abhishek Chauhan, and Riya Garg — impressed the jury with their augmented reality (AR)-powered concept that transforms traditional textbooks into interactive vernacular learning experiences for students. Their proposal stood out for its clear articulation, strong identification of existing educational challenges, and creative use of AR to make STEM learning more engaging and accessible.

The team’s idea was praised for blending cutting-edge technology with real-world educational impact, aligning perfectly with Nothing’s mission to make tech both useful and fun.

Nothing’s Take on India’s Innovation Potential

Akis Evangelidis, Co-founder and India President of Nothing, lauded the success of the initiative:

“The Nothing Incubator program reaffirmed what we’ve always believed — India is a powerhouse of creative, unfiltered talent. We received an incredible response, with so many bold and original ideas coming in from students across the country. Team Connection’s idea perfectly embodied the spirit of the challenge — it was bold, addressed a real-world problem, and made learning fun again through smart use of augmented reality.”

Awards and Recognition

As winners, Team Connection received a ₹2 lakh cash prize, Nothing Phone (3) devices, winner certificates, and an exclusive interview opportunity with the Nothing India leadership team.

• First Runner-up: Team f20221844 from BITS Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, awarded Nothing Phone (3a) Prodevices and certificates.
• Second Runner-up: Team Elevators from IIM Lucknow, awarded Nothing Phone (3a) devices and certificates.

About the Nothing Incubator Program

Launched in July 2025, the Nothing Incubator invited entries from students across 60+ premier Indian institutions, including IITs, IIMs, BITS Pilani, XLRI, FMS Delhi, and SPJIMR. The multi-stage competition included:

1. Idea Submission (one-slide proposal)
2. Strategic Roadmap submission
3. Live Grand Finale pitch to the Nothing India jury

The initiative reflects Nothing’s growing focus on India as a hub for innovation and talent. By engaging with the next generation of creators, the company aims to build a strong ecosystem that celebrates imagination, design, and meaningful technology.