IIT Mandi Catalyst Announces Himalayan Innovation Challenge 2019

IIT Mandi Catalyst announces a pitch challenge for startups and innovators to build solutions for the social and economic problems in Himalayan regions

 IIT Mandi Catalyst, the first Technology Based Incubator in Himachal Pradesh has announced ‘Himalayan Innovation Challenge 2019’ (HIC) to be held on May 25-26 at the IIT Mandi campus.

IIT Mandi Catalyst has invited startups and innovators from across the country to present their startup ideas to a panel of experts during this event. Individuals or teams with most practical ideas, passion, and ability to build the proposed solutions will be picked up by Catalyst. These ideas will be nurtured by IIT Mandi through an on-campus residential program starting in the month of June 2019. Total prize money of INR 1 Lakhs will be distributed to top ideas and incubation support will be offered that will include INR 16 Lakhs worth of grant and investment from IIT Mandi Catalyst.

Dr. Puran Singh, Faculty Incharge, Catalyst said, “HIC 2019 is a focussed effort of IIT Mandi Catalyst to create an impact in the Himalayan region by enabling innovators who want to build solutions for social and economic problems prevalent in the area”. 

The event invites ideas for a range of thematic areas that are relevant to the Himalayas such as agriculture, waste management, climate change, renewable energy, road safety, disaster management, healthcare and many other areas relating to inclusive rural development. More details on the event can be seen on the following website: www.iitmandi.ac.in/Catalyst/HIC

'HIC 2019' will attract budding entrepreneurs and innovators who are passionate to contribute to the development of the Himalayan region. Individuals who have innovative ideas to build technology-based solutions for rural and urban areas of the Himalayan Region will be provided financial and non-financial support.

It is noticeable that Catalyst, in the last two years, has supported more than 30 startups of which 16 have been from the state of Himachal Pradesh. Of these, four startups have progressed into the commercialization phase. These startups have generated employment and internship opportunities for more than 80 individuals. Catalyst has disbursed over INR 1 Crore grant and investments to the startups in the past two years.

Along with the budding entrepreneurs, it is an opportunity for corporate and government organizations to join hands with IIT Mandi Catalyst and support the initiative that will benefit the society at large.

For any questions, email: 2019hic@gmail.com