Title: Microsoft and iCreate Join Forces to Support Indian AI Startups
In a groundbreaking move to support the burgeoning AI startup ecosystem in India, Microsoft and the International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology (iCreate) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Facilitated by the Ministry of Electronics & IT, this partnership aims to transform and empower Indian AI startups across various cities and villages.
During the signing ceremony, Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar highlighted the significance of this collaboration in driving innovation and growth in the AI sector. The launch of the IMPEL AI program through the Microsoft-iCreate partnership is set to catalyze the development of AI startups in India, aligning with the vision set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.
The iMPEL-AI initiative, unveiled by Microsoft and iCreate, will identify and nurture 1100 AI innovators from all corners of India. With a focus on vital sectors such as healthcare, financial inclusion, education, agriculture, and smart cities, the program will select and support 100 Indian businesses to leverage Azure OpenAI for development. The top 25 startups will receive go-to-market assistance from Microsoft’s Global Network to showcase their cutting-edge solutions on a global scale.
Through Microsoft’s Learning Management System, over 11,000 entrepreneurs, startups, and young Indians will have access to AI skill-building opportunities. Upon completion, participants will receive globally recognized Microsoft certifications, enhancing their employability and career advancement prospects.
Jean-Philippe Courtois, Microsoft’s Executive Vice President, expressed enthusiasm about India’s potential in the AI space and emphasized the importance of equipping entrepreneurs with the tools to leverage AI for societal impact. The iMPEL-AI program is designed to foster a vibrant AI ecosystem in India, bridging the skills gap and unlocking new opportunities nationwide.
Avinash Punekar, CEO of iCreate, highlighted India’s IT talent pool as a driving force for AI innovation on a global scale. With a shared commitment to leveraging India’s technological prowess, the collaboration between iCreate and Microsoft aims to position India as a leader in AI advancements worldwide. The iMPEL-AI initiative is tailored to nurture AI innovation and support Indian entrepreneurs in building successful AI ventures with global reach.
This strategic partnership between Microsoft and iCreate signifies a pivotal moment for India’s innovation ecosystem, paving the way for the next wave of startups to propel advancements in AI, semiconductors, and HPC. As India embarks on its AI transformation journey, collaborations like these are poised to shape the future of AI innovation in the country and beyond.
