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Many startup leaders , especially those from India , have academic training but minimal business experience .
the European Molecular Biology Organization ( EMBO ) lecture course on “ Microphysiological systems : Advances and applications in human-relevant research ” which was well received by the science community as well as industry . Similarly , we have robust bioinformatics , molecular and genomic diagnostic expertise .
Recently , we have established a Conservation Science and Innovation Lab in University of Kashmir , Srinagar , J & K with the support of Rural Electrification Corporation Limited ( RECL ) for a biodiversity and wildlife conservation lab in Kashmir . We plan to grow our network by making strategic partnerships with businesses , public and international organizations , and academic institutions .
How many startups have you incubated up to 2022 , and which facilities are offered to them ?
We have incubated 80 + startups till now across different verticals like medical technology , agriculture , healthcare , bioenergy , etc . We are hosting 26 physical startups , and more than 10 are associated with us virtually . We have foster 13 innovations by our
fellows and EiRs social entrepreneurship and ICT in healthcare , and we are happy to report all progressing well .
The AIC-CCMB offers several training and workshops to entrepreneurs and their employees as part of its incubation programme . Our flagship programmes like Café Mandala , a knowledge sharing and networking event and Dagar workshops are tailored to meet necessities of our community .
Which are the key focus areas of innovation at AIC-CCMB within biotech , healthcare and agriculture ? Any product innovations or patent outcomes ?
Startups in our incubator are working on biosimilars , medtech , diagnostic kits , stem cell therapies , CarT cell therapies , mAB manufacturing , milk protein fermentation , mRNA platforms , controlled drug release , precision medicine and poultry vaccines . Our startups have generated more than 29 patents , raised over Rs 100 crores in funding and over 50 Lakhs in revenue through the work done in this incubator .
Any programs that have been developed in partnerships with the industry ? How do you plan to create better industryoriented student fellowships ?
AIC-CCMB focused on evolving from an incubation centre to an innovation centre . We conduct roundtables , discussions and a lot of industry interactions to understand the requirements of industries . Programs like CRTDH ,
CPHMS and NGS constantly engage industries with us , especially for new product development . A number of established MSEs seek our help in conducting validation studies for processes as well as products .
What do you consider as crucial achievements of AIC- CCMB in the last 5 years ? Any case studies or unique examples that you would like to mention ?
Every graduation is an achievement for us . The path of entrepreneurship is not easy , especially in life-sciences , so we are very proud to have supported several startups at AIC-CCMB to become the sustainable business of tomorrow ., But a notable achievement that is dear to us is working towards COVID-19 efforts . A number of our startups developed ICMR-approved , indigenous diagnostic technologies , and we facilitated the validation of more than 30 COVID-19 kits . AIC-CCMB was working on an “ mRNA platform for Vaccines and Biotherapeutics ”. The objective of this project was to indigenously develop an mRNA vaccine platform against SARS-CoV2 in collaboration with other CSIR institutes .
Your comments on the startup ecosystem in India ? What are the challenges in terms of funding and collaboration besides untapped opportunities ?
The Indian startup ecosystem has evolved dynamically over the last
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BioVoiceNews | December 2022