The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has established 15 Inclusive Technology Business Incubators (i-TBIs) across universities and higher education institutions throughout India. This strategic initiative aims to democratize innovation and entrepreneurship, extending opportunities far beyond the traditional metropolitan hubs.
Fostering Entrepreneurship in Academic Ecosystems
Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, recently visited Delhi Technological University (DTU) to review the progress of the DST-supported i-TBI established under the National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) program. During his visit, Singh interacted with faculty, student innovators, and startup founders, highlighting the university’s success in leveraging government support to create a dynamic startup ecosystem within its campus.
DTU’s i-TBI has already incubated 15 startups, reflecting the increasing entrepreneurial capacity within academic institutions. Notably, three startups based at DTU were each awarded a Startup Ignition Grant of ₹5 lakh under the DST-NIDHI framework, supporting early-stage product development and commercialization. These grants are designed to encourage innovation and risk-taking among emerging entrepreneurs.
Inclusive Innovation and Women-Led Startups
One of the key focuses of the i-TBI at DTU is inclusivity, with a special emphasis on supporting women entrepreneurs. The incubator provides comprehensive support, including mentoring, infrastructure, prototyping facilities, and access to funding. This approach ensures that innovation opportunities are accessible to a diverse range of founders, including those from smaller towns and underrepresented communities.
Government Support and Policy Vision
Minister Singh emphasized that science, technology, and innovation have received unprecedented priority over the past decade. India is rapidly emerging as a technology creator, supported by structured mechanisms that span the entire innovation lifecycle, from academic research to industry collaboration. Government schemes such as FIST, PURSE, and NIDHI play a critical role in strengthening research and innovation capabilities across the country.
- 15 i-TBIs established across India
- Focus on inclusivity and women-led startups
- Support for early-stage product development
- Integration of academic research and market solutions
- Encouragement of private investment and diversified funding
Building Confidence in Young Innovators
The government has implemented transparent, merit-based frameworks to ensure innovation opportunities reach smaller towns and aspirational districts. This inclusive outreach has helped build confidence among young innovators nationwide. The DST-supported i-TBI at DTU operates under the DTU Innovation and Incubation Foundation, nurturing knowledge-based startups and driving tangible outcomes in research, entrepreneurship, and societal impact.
Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening university-led innovation ecosystems and assured continued support for institutions that effectively use public funds to deliver measurable results. As India continues to prioritize science and technology, these efforts are expected to further accelerate the growth of a robust, inclusive innovation landscape across the country.
