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This pioneering platform serves as a comprehensive resource hub for startups, offering seamless access to vital networks of Venture Capitalists (VCs), investors, government schemes, and various other facets of the startup landscape.
Developed by researchers at the Centre for Research on Start-ups and Risk Financing (CREST) of IIT Madras, this platform is poised to greatly benefit startup founders, entrepreneurs, and aspiring innovators across India. Through its integration of information from diverse sources, the platform acts as a centralised repository, enabling entrepreneurs to explore government agencies, incubators, investors, VCs, and banks that actively support startups.
Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar lauded the initiative, emphasising its pivotal role in shedding light on the expansive and diverse startup innovation ecosystem. He underscored the platform’s value as a resource for researchers seeking to delve into the dynamics of the ecosystem, potentially informing policymakers in crafting responsive initiatives. Highlighting the ongoing surge in innovation, the Minister emphasised the need for a holistic understanding to drive further growth, particularly in emerging sectors such as semiconductors, microelectronics, AI, and HPC.
A notable feature of this innovative platform is “StartupGPT,” an AI-driven conversational interface designed to streamline information access for users navigating extensive datasets. Through natural language queries, users can access real-time information effortlessly, enhancing their engagement with the platform. To ensure widespread accessibility, full access to the platform will be available at a nominal cost, maximising its utility for aspiring entrepreneurs.
With a wealth of data encompassing over 200,000 startups, 11,000 angel investors, 5,000 VCs, 1,000 incubators, and numerous government agencies and banks supporting startups, the platform serves as a comprehensive repository of information vital for the startup ecosystem. Leveraging a technical partnership with YNOS Venture Engine, an IIT Madras incubatee startup, the platform remains updated and accessible round the clock, catering to the needs of users.
Underlining the platform’s significance in catalysing innovation and fostering entrepreneurship, Prof. Thillai Rajan A, Head of CREST at IIT Madras, emphasised its role in democratising access to information and capital. By facilitating the convergence of innovators, mentors, founders, investors, and funding agencies, the platform contributes to India’s journey towards becoming an innovation-driven economy, empowering thousands of young entrepreneurs to realise their aspirations.
Prof. Thillai Rajan A also highlighted the platform’s genesis as a testament to India’s prowess in frugal innovation, enabled by the support of institutions like IIT Madras and the Government of India. Through collaborative efforts and leveraging research expertise, the platform exemplifies the potential of academic institutions to drive meaningful contributions towards national development goals.
The launch of the ‘Investor Information and Analytics Platform’ represents a landmark achievement in India’s quest to nurture a vibrant and resilient startup ecosystem. With its user-friendly interface, extensive database, and AI-driven capabilities, the platform promises to revolutionise the way startups access vital resources and networks, paving the way for accelerated growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the country.
OpenGov Asia reported that the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur is set to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for electronics manufacturing and skills development. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between industry and academia, offering advanced learning opportunities and fostering research and development collaboration. With cutting-edge technology such as a fully automated Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Line, the CoE seeks to advance innovation and skill enhancement in electronics manufacturing. IIT-Kanpur Director, S. Ganesh, emphasized the centre’s pivotal role in fostering collaborations and driving socio-economic development through research and industry collaboration.
