DPIIT inks MoU with private digital platform to boost inclusive entrepreneurship across India

ANI June 19, 2025 287 views

The DPIIT has teamed up with YourStory to strengthen India’s startup ecosystem, especially in smaller cities. The partnership will provide AI tools, regional language content, and networking opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. It aims to support 1 million founders, focusing on emerging tech like AI and blockchain. This initiative aligns with India’s goal of becoming a global innovation leader.

"This partnership will expand access to networks and knowledge for underserved founders, accelerating India’s innovation journey." – Sanjiv Singh, DPIIT Joint Secretary
New Delhi, June 19: To further promote inclusive entrepreneurship and strengthen the startup ecosystem, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a private digital platform, YourStory Media Private Limited, with a focus on startups, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Key Points

1

MoU aims to foster grassroots entrepreneurship in Tier II/III cities

2

AI-powered tools and regional storytelling to drive engagement

3

Focus on AI, GenAI, data, and blockchain startups

4

Targets 1 million entrepreneurs under the Bharat Project

According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, this partnership aligns with DPIIT's vision of fostering grassroots entrepreneurship and supporting emerging talent across Tier II, Tier III, and rural India.

The collaboration aims to empower 1 million entrepreneurs through AI-powered tools, venture launchpads, and regional language storytelling initiatives under the Bharat Project.

The initiative will also leverage flagship startup events and developer-focused platforms to drive engagement within India's startup and technology ecosystem.

These platforms will facilitate innovation showcases, founder-investor networking, and support in emerging sectors such as AI, GenAI, data, and blockchain.

Speaking on the occasion, Joint Secretary, DPIIT, Sanjiv Singh, emphasised the significance of inclusive platforms in scaling the next generation of entrepreneurs.

He noted that the partnership would expand access to networks, knowledge, and success stories, particularly for aspiring founders from underserved regions, thereby accelerating India's journey to becoming a global innovation hub.

The MoU was formally signed by Deputy Secretary, DPIIT Rajesh Kumar and Founder & CEO, YourStory and The Bharat Project, Shradha Sharma in the presence of senior officials from both organisations.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
This is a fantastic initiative! Tier 2/3 cities have so much untapped potential. The regional language focus is especially important - not everyone is comfortable with English. Hope they implement it well across states. 🇮🇳
P
Priya M.
Great move but execution is key. Many such schemes fail to reach the grassroots. They should have clear monitoring mechanisms to ensure benefits reach small towns and villages. Also hope they include women entrepreneurs adequately.
A
Arjun S.
Finally some focus on Bharat beyond metros! The AI tools could be game-changers for local businesses. Just hope the platform remains affordable for small entrepreneurs. Jai Hind! 🙏
S
Sunita T.
As someone from a small town who started a business, I can say access to networks is the biggest challenge. If this can connect us to mentors and investors, it will be revolutionary. Fingers crossed!
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Vikram J.
Good initiative but why only one private partner? Should have opened it for multiple platforms to ensure wider reach and prevent monopoly. The government needs to be more inclusive in its partnerships.
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Neha P.
The focus on emerging tech like AI and blockchain is forward-looking! India's youth can compete globally if given the right tools. Hope they include practical training modules along with networking opportunities.

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