IIT Mandi’s Technology Business Incubator, Catalyst, is set to host the much-awaited seventh edition of the Himalayan Startup Trek (HST) from September 29 to October 1, 2023. This annual flagship event promises an exhilarating platform for startups, innovators, and aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their brilliance and innovative ideas. With a captivating grand challenge at its core, the event offers a remarkable opportunity to win cash prizes amounting to Rs 6 lakh and a chance to secure funding of up to Rs 50 lakh. The application deadline for this exciting endeavor is August 20, 2023.
The HST Startup Grand Challenge is designed around three distinctive thematic areas, each offering a unique realm of exploration and innovation:
- The New Age Alliance – Human-Computer Interaction (HCI): Collaboratively crafted with input from the iHub and HCI foundation at IIT Mandi, as well as the Indian HCI foundation, this thematic area delves into the intricate world of Human-Computer Interaction. Entrepreneurs and innovators are encouraged to tackle challenges within this domain, with the opportunity to vie for prize money sponsored by iHub.
- The Foothill Innovators Challenge – Build for the Himalayas: For those who are passionate about creating solutions tailored to the Himalayan region, the Foothill Innovators Challenge provides a fitting platform. Problem statements for this category are carefully developed through close collaboration with entities such as the state’s Industries Department, HP Centre for Entrepreneurship Development, Department of IT, and Labor Commissioner Office-HP.
- The Habitable World Challenge – Environment and Sustainability: In alignment with the pressing need for environmental conservation and sustainability, this thematic area invites participants to address pertinent issues. Problem statements for this category are formulated in partnership with esteemed organizations including peak ventures, Alsisar Impact, Pollution Control Board-HP, and National Health Mission-HP.
The allure of the HST Startup Grand Challenge goes beyond cash prizes. It extends to incubation support and access to funding schemes, allowing the top startups to embark on a journey of prototyping and product development, with financial backing of up to Rs 50 lakh. Moreover, these selected startups will enjoy piloting opportunities within the state, facilitating real-world implementation of their innovative solutions.
Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director of IIT Mandi, passionately encourages entrepreneurs and innovators from the Himachal region to enthusiastically participate in this edition of the HST Startup Grand Challenge 2023. This platform serves as a beacon for showcasing their ingenuity and transformative ideas that can contribute to positive change.
IIT Mandi Catalyst, established in 2016, has been a pioneering force as the first Technology Business Incubator (TBI) in Himachal Pradesh. With an impressive track record of nurturing over 340 startups across diverse sectors, Catalyst has played a pivotal role in fostering innovation. Through various initiatives and funding schemes, including the disbursement of Rs 10 Crore and commitment of over Rs 17 Crore for prototyping and commercialization, Catalyst has been a catalyst for transformative growth in the startup ecosystem.
