NIF workshop in Kashmir unites stakeholders for entrepreneurial elevation

Srinagar, Nov 10: The National Innovation Foundation (NIF) – India, in collaboration with the University of Kashmir and NIF Incubation and Entrepreneurship Council (NIFientreC), hosted a pivotal workshop at Kashmir University. The primary objective of the event was to engage all stakeholders, particularly enablers of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship ecosystem in the valley.

Stakeholders from various organisations converged for a day-long roundtable discussion themed “Inclusive Development through Entrepreneurial Advancement (IDEA).” The participants deliberated on a roadmap to enhance growth and development in Jammu and Kashmir by tapping into its untapped potential and addressing challenges.

Dr Vipin Kumar, Chief Scientist at NIF, emphasised the transformative potential of entrepreneurs supported by ecosystem builders. Dr. Praveen Roy, Head of NEB Division, Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, stressed the importance of modern startups’ adaptability and pivoting strategies.

Chetan Krishnaswamy, Vice President of Public Policy at Amazon India, acknowledged the vibrant entrepreneurial talent in Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the potential to create global brands through flagship programs like Karigar, Saheli, and Global Selling.

Dr Nisar Ahmad Mir, Registrar of the University of Kashmir, briefed participants on recent initiatives fostering innovation in the valley. Grassroots innovators shared accomplishments and challenges, while GR8 Sports India, representing the formal sector, discussed expectations from the government and steps needed to bridge gaps.

The roundtable facilitated an environment for beneficiaries to share experiences on accessing and leveraging various schemes, incentives, and facilities. Representatives from Ministries, Government organisations, Financial Institutions, Marketplaces, Investor services organizations, Technology Business Incubators, Media, Entrepreneurs, and Innovators attended, creating a diverse forum.

Key takeaways included an emphasis on awareness, financial literacy, capacity building, leveraging data-driven insights, organizing youth sensitization activities, developing equity-based financing models, and strengthening case study-based information dissemination. Participants included representatives from DST, SIDBI, Amazon India, University of Kashmir, SKUAST Kashmir, PIB, JKEDI, JKTPO, and entrepreneurs in niche areas like GR8 Sports Pvt Ltd.