Central India startup ecosystem gets boost as AIM Sumvaad held at RRCAT

Indore: In a move aimed at strengthening Central India’s startup ecosystem, two regional incubation networks were launched during the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) Sumvaad conclave organised by NITI Aayog at Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT) on Monday.

The newly-launched incubation networks, Madhya Pradesh Incubation Consortium and Thar Incubation Alliance in Rajasthan, aim to improve collaboration, mentorship and institutional support for startups across the region.

Officials said the two platforms are expected to help startups gain better access to mentorship, networking, industry partnerships and institutional support.

The event held in collaboration with RRCAT’s AIC Pi-Hub brought together policymakers, incubator heads, startup founders and industry representatives from Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Discussions focused on strengthening regional innovation ecosystems and improving state-Centre coordination for startup growth.

Speaking at the event, the mission director Deepak Bagla said, incubators are emerging as the backbone of India’s innovation economy by helping entrepreneurs convert ideas into scalable ventures. He added that stronger collaboration between govt agencies, industries and incubators would be critical for achieving the vision of a developed India.

The conclave also featured discussions on DeepTech startups, sustainable incubation models and the growing role of research-based entrepreneurship. Participants stressed the need for long-term investment support and stronger industry-academia linkages.

Indian Institute of Management, Indore director Himanshu Rai said, “India’s startup landscape is moving towards science and research-led innovation, making patient capital and institutional support increasingly important.”

RRCAT director and AIC Pi-Hub chairman Viraj Bhanage said, incubators play a vital role in mentoring young entrepreneurs and building collaborative opportunities between institutions and industries.

Officials said the newly launched regional networks are expected to create a more connected and sustainable startup ecosystem across Central India.