On a vibrant Sunday morning, amidst the historical backdrop of Odisha’s cultural richness, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the ‘100 Cube Start-up Initiative’ at IIT Bhubaneswar, likening it to the foundation of a new Konark Temple. The event, marked by its symbolism and ambition, aimed to catalyze innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaborative spirit in Odisha, echoing the state’s legacy of architectural marvels and innovation.
In his address, Minister Pradhan eloquently drew parallels between the ancient Konark Sun Temple and the contemporary pursuit of innovation and entrepreneurship. He emphasized how the Konark Temple reflected society’s collective aspirations and highlighted Odisha’s rich history of innovation, stating that the DNA of innovation runs deep in Odia society.
The essence of the ‘100 Cube Start-up Initiative’ lies in its vision to empower Odisha’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, aiming to nurture 100 entrepreneurs by the time Odisha celebrates its centenary in 2036. Minister Pradhan expressed confidence that these entrepreneurs would lead innovative startups valued at Rs 100 crores each, showcasing Odisha’s potential on the global stage.
The Minister’s remarks underscored the importance of higher education institutions in addressing global challenges. He envisioned that initiatives like ‘100 Cube’ would serve as catalysts for transformative solutions, positioning India, and Odisha as hubs of innovation.
The event celebrated the burgeoning startup ecosystem in Odisha, with particular emphasis on the significant participation of women entrepreneurs, reflecting the inclusive nature of the initiative. Minister Pradhan urged stakeholders to collaborate and support the startup ecosystem, emphasizing the need for mentorship to foster sustainable growth.
Acknowledging the transformative power of technology, Minister Pradhan highlighted India’s demographic dividend and the global market potential for Indian startups. He emphasized the importance of mentoring and urged stakeholders to support the next generation of innovators.
Furthermore, Minister Pradhan underscored the pivotal role of educators in mentoring startups, highlighting the potential for faculty members to become equity holders in these ventures. He encouraged collaborative partnerships between teachers and students, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within academic institutions.
The event witnessed strategic collaborations between IIT Bhubaneswar and 16 companies, laying the foundation for achieving the objectives of the ‘100 Cube’ initiative. The signing of MoUs and the allocation of grant cheques underscored the commitment of both public and private sectors to support budding entrepreneurs.
In addition to the inauguration of the 1500-seater auditorium and the laying of the e-foundation for infrastructure projects, parallel technical workshops and startup exhibitions showcased the diversity and potential of Odisha’s entrepreneurial landscape.
The event attracted dignitaries from around the globe, including representatives from Finland, Kenya, Oman, USA, Australia, UK, and UAE, signifying the international interest in Odisha’s burgeoning startup ecosystem.
In conclusion, the launch of the ‘100 Cube Start-up Initiative’ at IIT Bhubaneswar heralds a new era of innovation and entrepreneurship in Odisha. With its emphasis on collaboration, mentorship, and inclusivity, the initiative holds the promise of transforming Odisha into a dynamic hub of innovation, driving socio-economic growth and prosperity for years to come.