Startup Yatra 2.0: Exploring the Role of Technopreneurs in Innovation and Creativity

Chandigarh, August 23, 2024: BioNEST and E-YUVA Centre, PU Chandigarh, proudly presented Startup Yatra 2.0, an enlightening event exploring the crucial role of technopreneurs in fostering innovation and creativity. Held at the CIL Auditorium, Panjab University, Chandigarh, the event successfully showcased how technopreneurs are transforming the technological landscape and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). More than 150 participants attended the event including teachers, start-ups and students not only from Panjab University and neighbouring colleges but from Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh institutes.

With the diverse participation, the occasion was set in motion by Prof. Rohit Sharma, Project leader, BioNEST, Panjab University, Chandigarh who eloquently highlighted the significance of the event. Reflecting on the resounding success of Startup Yatra 1.0 held in 2019, a flagship event to GBI 2019. Prof. Sharma emphasized on how it laid a strong foundation for nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship. He further drew attention to the National Space Day and its alignment with the spirit of exploration and discovery that Startup Yatra embodies. Additionally, he underscored the importance of Global Bio India 2024, megaevent organized by BIRAC, New Delhi and celebrating its role in fostering international collaborations and advancements in biotechnology. Professor Sharma’s remarks set an inspiring tone for the day, reinforcing the commitment to advancing technology and creativity through dynamic dialogues and innovative thinking.

The inauguration ceremony was highlighted by the presence of esteemed dignitaries. Prof. Harsh Nayyar, Director of RDC, PU Chandigarh, served as the Chief Guest, while Dr. GaneshKumraj, Managing Director of Bio Bridge Healthcare Solutions Pvt. Ltd., was honoured as the Guest of Honor. The keynote address was delivered by Taranjeet Kaur, Manager Entrepreneurship Development, BIRAC, New Delhi, who provided valuable insights about grant opportunities at BIRAC, how they provide grant and equity funding as well and Global Bio India 2024. Occasion was marked with the presence of Mr. Vineet Khurana, Chief Executive Officer, Start-up Accelerator Chamber of Commerce (SACC), India, Dr. Ashutosh Pastor, Senior Manager & Head-Incubation, FITT, IIT Delhi and an Alumnus of Panjab University, Chandigarh, Mr. Karan Sharma, Business Unit Head, South Asia, Cytiva.

Dr. Ganesh Kumraj highlighted the complexities and extended timeline inherent in the biotechnology sector, particularly in vaccine development. Dr. Kumrajemphasized that the process from conceptualizing a vaccine to its widespread availability is intricate and time-consuming.Dr. Ganesh Kumraj provided a compelling example to illustrate the lengthy process of vaccine development by citing the first vaccine ever created. It involves a meticulous sequence of research, preclinical testing, and multiple phases of clinical trials, all governed by stringent regulatory standards to ensure safety and efficacy. Additionally, scaling up production and ongoing post-market surveillance add further layers to the timeline. Dr. Kumraj’s insights underscored the dedication and precision required in biotechnology to bring effective vaccines to market, ultimately reflecting the sector’s commitment to public health and safety.

Prof. Harsh Nayyar, the chief guest of the event, highlighted the significant opportunities available for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. He emphasized the role of initiatives such as the RashtriyaUchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) and the new incubator being established at Panjab University, Chandigarh. Prof. Nayyar expressed his gratitude to Prof. Rohit Sharma for his proactive efforts in cultivating a robust innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. He commended Prof. Sharma’s dedication and vision in driving these initiatives forward, which are pivotal for nurturing talent and advancing the region’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Taranjeet Kaur highlighted several crucial funding opportunities available through the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), including the Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG) Fund. She provided an in-depth overview of Global Bio India 2023, detailing key insights and outcomes from the event. With an eye on the future, Taranjeet enthused the audience about upcoming opportunities and strongly encouraged participants to register for Global Bio India 2024. She emphasized the event’s vital role in showcasing emerging biotechnological innovations and fostering valuable collaborations within the industry.

Vineet Khurana, a prominent investor and entrepreneur, also took the stage to share his experiences and insights. He discussed how every successful enterprise was once a startup, providing inspiring examples such as OYO. Mr. Khurana has supported more than 30 startups across sectors including Healthcare, Lifestyle, Food & Beverage (F&B), Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), Fintech, Edtech, B2B SaaS, and Social Innovations. He highlighted several standout investments, noting how identifying and nurturing these "portfolio gems" has led to multi-bagger exits.

Dr. Ashutosh Pastor also shared his experience with the audience that behind every successful personality resides multiple failures and one should always look forward to their goal and keep trying and achievement will come in their hands one day. Mr. Karan talked about the interface of the industry and academia, how one can use their skills of academia to develop into an industry. Sharma emphasized on taking research & development of the academia and clubbing it to 3Ps that are publications, patent and products. He acknowledged that academia does research generating an outcome in form of publications, but industry does all types of SWOT analysis and develop it into a product. So, state of the art says we should work to generate these 3Ps to build sustainable solutions for the society.

One of the major segment of the event was a pitching contest for innovators, featuring presentations from 11 participants from Chandigarh, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh who shared their groundbreaking ideas. The diverse range of pitches included developed products as well as prototypes still in progress. Among the innovative concepts presented were a floor cleaner made from citrus peels, vermin compost used as a biofertilizer, and advancements in robotics. This event showcased the creativity and potential of emerging technologies across various sectors, highlighting the vibrant and dynamic nature of the innovation ecosystem supported by BioNEST.

Throughout the event, participants engaged in dynamic discussions and workshops that underscored the pivotal role of technopreneurs in driving forward innovative solutions and creative breakthroughs. The sessions aimed to align with the core objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing the importance of technological advancements in addressing global challenges.The event served as a significant platform for exchanging ideas, networking with industry leaders, and exploring new opportunities in the realm of technological entrepreneurship.