Sikkim MP launches Digi SAPNE startup acceleration program for NE

GANGTOK, : In a major push to innovation and entrepreneurship in North East India, Sikkim LokSabha MP Indra Hang Subba recently launched Digi SAPNE, a Startup Acceleration Program initiated by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

The initiative is designed to empower emerging entrepreneurs by providing critical resources, mentorship, and market access, fostering a robust startup ecosystem in the region, a press release.

The presence of Prince PaldenNamgyal was a key highlight of the launch event where he also addressed the startups about the initiatives led by Atlas Advisors.

Addressing the gathering, MP Indra Hang Subba expressed pride in Sikkim’s growing reputation as an innovation hub, with SMIT playing a pivotal role in shaping skilled professionals in engineering and medicine. Reflecting on India’s 75 years of independence and Sikkim’s 50 years of Statehood, he highlighted the government’s proactive efforts in creating policies that nurture young innovators.

“The Government of India is committed to transforming individuals into creators. While programs like Digi SAPNE offer opportunities, the real challenge lies in people stepping forward and making the most of them,” he remarked. He also reiterated the strategic importance of the North East as a key driver of India’s economic future, aligning with the vision of Vikshit Bharat.

Echoing Chief Minister PS Golay’s vision of ‘Sunaulo, Samriddh, Samartha Sikkim’, the MP emphasized the need to move beyond government jobs, urging the youth to embrace entrepreneurship, upskill, and adapt to the evolving job landscape. He also advocated for exchange programs between colleges in Sikkim, recognizing SMIT as a centre of excellence.

Speaking at the launch event, Prof TejChingtham, CEO of SMUTBI, shared that twelve high-potential startups were selected from over 400 applications across the North East following a rigorous evaluation process. He also expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology for supporting this impactful program.

The program aims to drive revenue growth, job creation, and global investment, leveraging the region’s potential to contribute $3 trillion to India’s economy by 2047 and significantly impact national GDP.

KK Singh, Joint Secretary to Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, addressed the gathering virtually, congratulating the selected startups and reaffirming AIC’s commitment to guiding them through every stage of their entrepreneurial journey, from project development to market expansion, as part of the one-year accelerator program.

Recognizing Digi SAPNE as a flagship initiative, Dr.Dilip Chandra Agarwal, Vice Chancellor of Sikkim Manipal University, praised SMUTBI’s role as the premier incubator in the North East. He assured entrepreneurs of a thriving ecosystem, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and support for scaling their businesses.

IT department secretary TenzingKaleonurged startups to demonstrate their capabilities through performance, emphasizing the program’s role in creating future unicorns that will inspire and lead the next wave of entrepreneurship in India. “Startups are the backbone of economic growth, and entrepreneurs are the visionaries driving this change,” he stated.

With the Digi SAPNE program, the North East is set to gain greater visibility on the national and global stage, unlocking new opportunities for startups and positioning the region as a major player in India’s innovation-driven economy.

The 12 startups also attended and showcased their product in the AI experience Zone at the Blue Duke Festival held at Saramsa Garden, Ranipool from February 14 to 16 demonstrating the technology that can accelerate the economic growth in North East region, the release mentions.