The International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology (iCreate) and Microsoft teamed up with the Ministry of Electronics & IT, signing an MoU to boost AI startups across India. Witnessed by Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the collaboration aims to drive innovation in AI and emerging tech, not just in big cities but also in smaller towns and villages. The focus is on fast-tracking the innovation ecosystem’s growth and shaping the future of IndiaAI. It anticipates a surge in startups focusing on AI, semiconductors, and high-performance computing, with a strong commitment to ensuring Safe & Trusted AI.
Microsoft and iCreate have launched the iMPEL-AI program with the objective of identifying 1100 talented AI innovators across India. These individuals will explore themes such as Healthcare, Financial Inclusion, Sustainability, Education, Agriculture, and Smart Cities. In the subsequent phase, 100 startups will receive assistance utilizing Azure OpenAI, and the top 25 will receive backing from Microsoft’s Global Network for the development of AI products.
Furthermore, Microsoft and iCreate will facilitate AI learning opportunities for 11,000 individuals and startups across India through Microsoft’s Learning Management System. Upon completion, participants will be awarded certifications from Microsoft, enhancing their employability prospects and preparing them for a successful career.
Jean-Philippe Courtois, Executive Vice President and President, National Transformation Partnerships, Microsoft said, “India is uniquely positioned to seize the extraordinary AI opportunity. To support this, we need to empower the next generation of innovators to harness AI to solve complex problems and scale positive impact. That’s why we are excited to launch the iMPEL-AI innovation program, which will nurture a dynamic AI ecosystem in India and enable AI innovators and entrepreneurs to help bridge the nation’s AI skill gap and create new possibilities across the country. We are already seeing incredible value from AI innovation in India, from supporting farmers with digital chatbots to transforming economic opportunities for underserved communities through translation tools, and Microsoft is dedicated to being India’s copilot in its AI transformation journey.”
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Avinash Punekar, CEO of iCreate, said, “AI is transforming how we are engaging with products and services globally. India has the world’s largest tech talent pool, and we believe that our leadership in AI can position India as a key stakeholder in every domain. iCreate has been a leader in pioneering new initiatives that fuel innovation and unlock the true potential of startups. Through our partnership with Microsoft, our common vision is to leverage India’s tech strength and put India on a pedestal for driving global innovations in AI. The iMPEL-AI programme is carefully designed to foster AI innovation and product development with access to both mentorship and technology infrastructure that are needed by Indian innovators to build globally successful AI ventures.”
