For the 1st time I’m trying this audio blog that’ll be used in almost of my future blogs – that’ll help you listen to this detailed article
Introduction
The IIT Powai SARCathon was more than just an event—it was a hub of innovation, networking, and brand engagement. For brands looking to connect with Gen Z and student communities, such events offer a unique opportunity to build visibility and trust. Here’s a detailed walkthrough of our experience at the Sarcathon, what worked, and key takeaways for brand managers.
Event Overview
- Venue: IIT Powai, SOM Building
- Occasion: SARCathon + Alumni Meet
- Audience: IIT alumni, professors, students (first-year, second-year), school students, and general visitors
- Stalls: 10 stalls in total, primarily food and beverage brands
Our stall stood out by offering exclusive deals for IIT students, gifting options, and interactive engagement through the GenZDealZ App.
Pre-Event Challenges
- Gate Pass Issues: No gate pass was ready when we arrived at 11:30 AM, which delayed setup.
- Weather: Heavy monsoon made logistics tricky.
- Stall Relocation: We had to shift our stall three times due to lighting and space constraints.
- Materials: Carrying standees, banners, and marketing kits through security was a challenge.
Pro Tip for Brands:
Always confirm stall number, building name, and gate pass details in advance to avoid last-minute chaos.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DQlqYC5Amg8/
Here’s a short reel of the event
Engagement Highlights
- Student Influencer Support: Vidit from Pillai College helped amplify our initiatives.
- Audience Interaction:
- IIT students showed interest not just in deals but also in understanding our backend business model.
- School students and parents engaged with curiosity about entrepreneurship.
- Giveaways: Distributed 200 smiley balls:
- 70% IIT crowd
- 10% professors and parents
- 20% school students and general visitors
Operational Insights for Brand Managers
- Essential Materials: Carry tapes, gum, and extra lighting for banners and standees.
- Volunteer Support: Have at least one college volunteer to direct traffic to your stall.
- Peak Hours:
- Opening time
- Lunch hours
- Evening (5 PM – 7 PM)
- Food Strategy: Pack your own meal—monsoon limits options to expensive, less nutritious food.
- Team Presence: Ensure your team is active during peak footfall hours.
Social Media Strategy
- Capture high-quality photos and videos when VIPs or seniors visit.
- Record authentic student conversations and problem statements.
- Offer tangible gifts (smiley balls, vouchers) to create shareable moments.
- Edit content professionally for targeted platforms.
Performance Metrics
- Set clear goals: App downloads, website visits, or lead captures.
- Align team efforts around these targets for measurable success.
Key Takeaways
- Pay volunteers well—they drive engagement during peak hours.
- If footfall drops after 5 PM, wrap up early and focus on the next event.
- Always plan for contingencies like weather and stall changes.
Final Thoughts
Events likeSARCathon are not just about visibility—they’re about creating meaningful connections with students and alumni. For brands, the key lies in planning, adaptability, and authentic engagement