The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala Resort & Spa proudly hosted the 14th edition of TiEcon Kerala on 21st & 22nd November 2025, marking one of the most impactful entrepreneurial events in the state. With over 630 registered delegates, this year’s TiEcon brought together entrepreneurs, investors, policy leaders, global speakers, and change-makers for two transformative days of knowledge-sharing, networking, and celebration — all set against the serene backdrop of Kumarakom’s iconic backwaters.
A Landmark Edition in a Unique Format
Based on the TiEcon Kerala 2025 theme of “celebrating entrepreneurship,” this edition embraced a distinctive residential format at The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala Resort & Spa — where conversations transitioned effortlessly from the conference hall to the expansive lawn and relaxed evening settings. Delegates experienced a seamless blend of learning, networking, and creating an environment where ideas flowed naturally, and connections deepened.
Event Highlights
- Powerful keynotes and masterclasses, including an inspiring entrepreneurship session by CK Ranganathan.
- Insights from Kerala’s Hon’ble Industries Minister, emphasising the state’s continued leadership in EODB rankings.
- Wisdom from industry veterans, including Balagopal, Founder of Terumo Penpol.
- Pitch Bay showcase, where five startup founders presented live.
- Entertainment evenings, live instrumental music, cultural showcases, and curated dining experiences by Zuri Kumarakom’s culinary team.
Delegate Testimonials
Dr. Geemon Korah
Chair, TiEcon Kerala 2025 & VP TiE Kerala
Executive Director & CEO, Mane Kancor Ingredients Ltd
“Being held in Kumarakom, this was an event with a twist. While Kumarakom is known for its pristine backwaters and hospitality, delegates who came were in for a surprise. The professionalism with which a business event of this scale was conducted was refreshing! It was a cool lime soda with a dose of colour and zing!! People stayed back, no one wanted to go back to Cochin, all hotels in the vicinity were booked – Dil Mange More!!
On a scale of 1-10, it would be rated 9 – everything that The Zuri served was world-class!! The food, the atmosphere, and the drinks all made up for a fantastic overall experience with a magical evening and live instrumental music to round off the day. While the weather was a wee bit humid and the travel distance to Cochin was over an hour – everything was forgotten when you entered into this festival of entrepreneurship!!
When an experience is holistic, it is also unforgettable – we had a superb master class on entrepreneurship by CK Ranganathan, an address by the Hon’ble industries Minister on how Kerala is now topping the EODB rating consecutively over the years, pearls of wisdom from Balagopal – founder of Terumo Penpol, Pitch Bay which brought 5 startup founders to the stage and over Rs. 4 Crore was committed over 2 hours with more to come, and all this in the wonderful setting of The Zuri by the beautiful backwaters of Kumarakom!!it is a surreal experience, truly !!”
Mr. Jacob Joy
Immediate Past President, TiE Kerala
Founder, Jakobi Chocolatier
“TiEcon Kerala 2025 stood out for the depth of its conversations and the quality of participation. This edition felt distinctly more purposeful; every session delivered tangible insights, not just inspiration. The mix of founders, investors, and industry leaders created an energy that was both forward-looking and deeply rooted in Kerala’s evolving entrepreneurial narrative. What truly made it unique was the intimacy of interactions: meaningful networking, authentic exchanges, and a shared sense that Kerala’s startup ecosystem is maturing with confidence. It was, in every way, a celebration of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship.
The Zuri Kumarakom experience was outstanding, an elegant setting where the ambience naturally encouraged meaningful conversations. The hospitality, logistics, and overall coordination were seamless, allowing delegates to focus entirely on the content and connections. Sarat and his team were exceptional; they remained fully in control throughout the event, which is no small feat considering the large number of delegates, each with different needs and expectations, especially when many were not staying at the property. The charm of Kumarakom added a retreat-like warmth to the entire experience, making the event not just productive but truly enjoyable
Kerala’s entrepreneurial landscape is entering a new phase, ambitious, collaborative, and investment-ready.
The emphasis on innovation, AI, and global competitiveness highlighted the direction forward for the state’s founders.
Most importantly, TiEcon reinforced that entrepreneurship thrives where community thrives. The sense of belonging, shared purpose, and peer support was my biggest takeaway, something I personally hold close, both as an entrepreneur and as a “chocoholic” who believes good ideas should always melt into great outcomes.”
A Word from The Zuri Kumarakom Management
Mr. Sarat Valsraj
General Manager, The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala Resort & Spa
“The TiEcon Kerala conference at The Zuri brought together 630 registered delegates, making it one of the largest entrepreneurial gatherings in the state. From an operational standpoint, the focus was on seamless execution—efficient registration, smooth delegate flow, and flawless technical support across plenary and breakout sessions. Hospitality was scaled to meet diverse needs, with dedicated accommodation, catering, and concierge services for VIPs and international guests. Security and compliance were managed in coordination with local authorities, while over 120 staff ensured synchronised delivery across all functions. The event featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and structured networking, complemented by cultural programs that highlighted Kerala’s heritage. Overall, the conference was a strategic success, reinforcing Kerala’s image as an innovation hub and strengthening The Zuri’s reputation as a premier venue for high-profile events.”
About TiEcon Kerala 2025
TiEcon Kerala, the state’s largest entrepreneurship summit, is known for bringing together founders, investors, industry leaders, and innovators. This year’s edition focused on global competitiveness, AI-driven innovation, startup scaling, and community-building — reinforcing Kerala’s position as an emerging innovation hub.
About The Zuri Kumarakom, Kerala Resort & Spa
The Zuri Kumarakom is a five-star luxury backwater resort known for its expansive landscapes, serene private lagoon, award-winning hospitality, premium villas, world-class culinary experiences, and state-of-the-art event venues. The resort is also home to the renowned Maya Spa, offering holistic wellness therapies that complement its tranquil setting.
With its exceptional facilities and refined service, The Zuri Kumarakom specialises in hosting high-profile conferences, wellness retreats, celebrity events, and destination weddings.
