Startup Odisha Launches Twin Initiatives to Strengthen Incubation and Innovation Ecosystem

Bhubaneswar: In a determined move to bolster Odisha’s growing startup landscape, Startup Odisha, under the aegis of the MSME Department, Government of Odisha, launched two key initiatives — the ‘X-Change Programme’ and ‘Launchpad 2025: Incubator Induction & Capacity Building Programme’ — at the Odisha Startup Incubation Centre (O-Hub) in Bhubaneswar.

The ‘X-Change Programme’ served as a collaborative and knowledge-sharing platform that brought together all Startup Odisha-recognised incubators. Designed to foster synergy within the ecosystem, the programme focused on building institutional capacity, sharing best practices, and strengthening strategic alignment. It also encouraged incubators to co-create a startup environment that is inclusive, resilient, and future-ready.

In parallel, Startup Odisha formally inducted nine new incubators into its expanding network through the Launchpad 2025 initiative. These incubators, drawn from institutions across the state, are expected to play a vital role in decentralising startup support, enabling grassroots innovation, and accelerating entrepreneurship at regional levels.

Senior officials and thought leaders shared their insights during the event. Mr. Rajesh Kumar Adla, CEO of AIC T-Hub, and Shri Kamaljit Das, OAS(S), Joint Secretary of the MSME Department, addressed the participants, offering strategic perspectives on strengthening incubation models, encouraging institutional collaboration, and developing impactful support frameworks tailored to Odisha’s unique entrepreneurial needs.

The day-long event also focused on aligning incubators with Odisha’s startup policies and operational guidelines. Participants acknowledged the significance of these programmes in preparing incubators to support early-stage entrepreneurs with the necessary mentorship, infrastructure, and strategic direction.

In his broader vision for the state, Shri Hemant Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary of the MSME Department and Chairman of Startup Odisha, has championed the cause of innovation-led growth. Under his leadership, the state has intensified partnerships with national and international institutions, introduced structured incubation and funding support, and empowered startups through an inclusive and transparent approach.