Opportunity brief
Business on Values 2026
The ESAF Chair for Business on Values at the Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA), under "Tribhuvan" Sahkari University, presents the Case Competition on Business on Values 2026, supported by ESAF Small Finance Bank and ESAF Foundation.
The competition is centred on SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and invites postgraduate students to explore how values, ethics and responsible decision-making can shape contemporary businesses and institutions. Participants will analyse real-world challenges at the intersection of business, institutional responsibility, social inclusion and sustainable development, while presenting innovative and practical solutions.
Who Can Participate?
- Students pursuing a Master's programme in any discipline. - Students enrolled in a PGDM programme. - Participation is open to teams of two members. - Both members of finalist teams must be physically present at the IRMA campus in Anand, Gujarat.
Competition Structure
Round 1: Online Screening Round
- Conducted online through Unstop. - Participants will attempt a passage-based online quiz. - The test must be completed within the stipulated 24-hour test-taking window. - Each team will be allowed only one attempt. - Shortlisted teams will advance to Round 2.
Round 2: Two-Slide Presentation Submission
Shortlisted teams will receive a theme or sub-theme related to Business on Values and SDG 16.
Submission requirements:
- Two slides only. - Landscape format, 16:9 aspect ratio. - PDF format. - Maximum file size: 5 MB. - No animations or transitions. - All secondary data, images and sources must be appropriately cited. - The submission must be the original work of the participating team.
Submissions will be evaluated on:
- Relevance and depth of analysis. - Application of values and ethical reasoning. - Originality and quality of ideas. - Feasibility and practical relevance. - Clarity of thought and visual communication.
The top 20 teams will receive Digital Certificates of Excellence.
Round 3: Final Case Study Presentation
Six finalist teams will be invited to the IRMA campus in Anand, Gujarat. The teams will receive a case on value-driven business at the campus and present their solutions before the jury.
The final round will require the physical presence of both team members.
A travel allowance of up to INR 12,000 per team will be paid to the finalists towards actual travel expenses, subject to submission of original bills. Complimentary accommodation will be provided at the IRMA campus during the final round.
Important Dates
- Registration opens: 15 August 2026 - Registration deadline: 5 September 2026 -
Round 1 – Online Quiz: 6 September 2026
- Round 2 shortlisted teams announced: 8 September 2026 - Round 2 – Presentation submission deadline: 13 September 2026 - Finalist teams announced: 17 September 2026 - Final round at IRMA campus: 27 September 2026