Maharashtra Selected for Japanese Programme to Boost Entrepreneurship and Startup Ecosystem
- ByStartupStory | August 25, 2023
Maharashtra has taken a significant stride towards promoting innovation and entrepreneurship by becoming the exclusive Indian participant in Japan’s pioneering ‘Knowledge Co-Creation Program on Enhancement of Entrepreneurship and Startup Ecosystem.’ Scheduled to run from August 27 to September 30, 2023, the program aims to enhance the entrepreneurship and startup ecosystem by providing training in Japan. Amit Kothavade, Assistant Manager at Maharashtra State Innovation Society, has been chosen to represent the state in this initiative. The program offers participants a platform to explore various startup ecosystems and gain insights into strategies to support entrepreneurs. Through interactive sessions and shared experiences, participants will gain a deeper understanding of nurturing entrepreneurs and their ventures. The program draws inspiration from Japan’s innovative policies and initiatives, facilitating the exchange of ideas.
The Significance of the Program
The Japanese Government’s Development Cooperation Charter, which focuses on collaborative creation tailored to partner nations’ contexts, underpins the Knowledge Co-Creation Program. This specialized capacity-building initiative aims to strengthen local startup ecosystems and drive global development in Asia and Africa.
Maharashtra’s Participation
Out of the 11 global candidates, Kothavade has been selected as the sole Indian participant. The Maharashtra State Innovation Society (MSInS), a government agency dedicated to fostering the innovation-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem, played a role in this achievement. Created under the Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation Department of the Government of Maharashtra, MSInS has facilitated the growth of startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs across the state. Through hackathons, innovation challenges, and mentorship programs, MSInS has nurtured a vibrant startup environment by collaborating with academic institutions and industry experts.
This collaboration between Maharashtra and Japan underscores the state’s innovative capacity and promotes cross-border learning. Maharashtra’s participation in the Knowledge Co-Creation Program showcases its commitment to innovation-led growth and entrepreneurship. This initiative has the potential to create a lasting impact by nurturing a conducive environment for startups, contributing significantly to both the state’s economy and the global landscape.