Odisha Gets New Push for Startup Growth with AIM Innovation Network Launch

Bhubaneswar, July 7 (UDN): The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, has launched a new initiative to strengthen Odisha’s startup ecosystem by bringing incubators, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and government stakeholders onto a common platform for innovation-led growth.

The AIM–Odisha Chapter was launched during the Regional AIM SUMVAAD–East Chapter 2026 held at O-Hub, Bhubaneswar. The initiative aims to create stronger collaboration among Atal Incubation Centres (AICs) and Atal Community Innovation Centres (ACICs) across the state by enabling shared access to mentorship, infrastructure, investors, programmes, and strategic partnerships.

The conclave brought together key stakeholders from Odisha and other eastern states to discuss ways to accelerate entrepreneurship, support emerging startups, and build a more connected innovation ecosystem.

Addressing the gathering, Smt. Chithra Arumugam, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Science & Technology Department, Government of Odisha, highlighted the increasing importance of Eastern India in the national innovation landscape. She stressed the need for strong partnerships between institutions, industry, and policymakers to create globally competitive startups.

The Mission Director of Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, in a virtual address, emphasised the importance of expanding innovation opportunities beyond metropolitan cities and empowering regions to become engines of economic growth. He said platforms like AIM SUMVAAD are helping build stronger networks among incubators, entrepreneurs, and government institutions.

The event witnessed participation from innovation centres across Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, reinforcing the importance of regional cooperation in promoting entrepreneurship.

The programme included policy discussions, industry dialogues, and ecosystem sessions focused on strengthening startup support systems, encouraging grassroots innovation, and exploring growth opportunities in emerging sectors such as biotechnology, life sciences, and mining.

The launch of the AIM–Odisha Chapter is expected to provide startups with improved access to resources, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities, further strengthening Odisha’s position as an emerging hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.