States must play larger role in facilitating startups: Min
13/09/2017 11:27
Taking forward the Startup India initiative to the next level, the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Government of India has organized the Second States’ Startup Conference on Tuesday at Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra, New Delhi. Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State, Commerce and Industry, C.R. Choudhary emphasized on the larger role States need to play in facilitating and encouraging Startups which would determine the ultimate success of Startup initiative. He exhorted all to ensure that the benefits of Startup India program should percolate down to entrepreneurs in tier-2/tier-3 cities. Ramesh Abhishek, Secretary, DIPP stressed upon the need to take positive steps to support the budding entrepreneurs of the country. He also highlighted the game-changing initiatives such as Startup India Hub and Learning & Development program launched by DIPP for benefit of budding entrepreneurs. 60 enablers comprising Venture Capitalists (VCs), Incubators, Accelerators, Banks, etc. and over 100 Startups from all over the country participated in the conference. The role of States/UTs in creation of a strong startup ecosystem in the country was focussed upon in the sessions. Several states showcased key initiatives they had taken to promote startups. Odisha showcased various tools they have developed to equip startups, including a comprehensive portal, helpline and various learning & development initiatives. Tamil Nadu presented the extensive network of innovation centers which have been developed on a hub and spoke model across colleges in the state. Jharkhand showcased their bottom up approach of fostering innovation by reaching out to schools to nurture a culture of innovation through a ‘germinator.’ Other States viz. Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Bihar, Kerala, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh also made presentations showcasing their efforts in supporting Startups. The event witnessed dedicated sessions on ‘Incubation facilities across States: Challenges and Solutions’ and ‘Funding for Startups - Role of State Government’. The panelists debated on how State Governments in collaboration with Startup enablers can facilitate setting up of incubation facilities and funding for Startups across States/UTs.
