The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow will host the 17th edition of UDYAM, the flagship business conclave of its International Programme in Management for Executives (IPMX), on August 8 and 9, 2026, at its Noida campus, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers and management professionals to deliberate on the changing needs of businesses in an increasingly volatile global environment.
The two-day conclave will revolve around the theme “Changing Business Needs in a VUCA World,” focusing on how organisations can navigate Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity (VUCA) through innovation, resilience and agile leadership.
Industry-academia collaboration
For nearly two decades, UDYAM has served as a platform connecting academia with industry, enabling discussions on emerging business challenges and evolving leadership priorities.
The 2026 edition comes at a time when businesses are adapting to rapid technological advancements, geopolitical uncertainties, shifting workforce expectations and growing sustainability requirements.
Through keynote addresses, panel discussions and interactive sessions, the conclave aims to provide participants with practical insights into organisational transformation, strategic decision-making and future-ready leadership.
Focus on contemporary business challenges
The conclave’s agenda will cover a wide range of topics, including sustainable growth, technology and innovation, organisational transformation, talent management and the changing expectations of recruiters.
The discussions are expected to highlight strategies for building resilient enterprises while creating long-term value for stakeholders in an increasingly dynamic business environment.
Participation from industry leaders
UDYAM 2026 will feature more than 30 industry leaders representing global organisations across technology, consulting, manufacturing, consumer goods, financial services, healthcare and sustainability sectors.
Previous editions have hosted senior executives and thought leaders from organisations including Microsoft, Flipkart, Revolut, Fidelity, Havells, Kearney, FTI Consulting and the Government of India.
Executive professionals to attend
The conclave will also bring together the IPMX Class of 2027, comprising 104 experienced professionals with an average of eight years of industry experience across diverse sectors and functional domains.
The organisers said the participation of executive professionals alongside business leaders will foster meaningful dialogue, cross-industry learning and knowledge exchange.
With over 100 executive professionals expected to participate, UDYAM 2026 aims to strengthen industry-academia collaboration while equipping business leaders with actionable insights to navigate an increasingly interconnected and rapidly evolving global business landscape.