AIMicrosoft, iCreate, and MeitY Collaborate to Boost Indian Startups in AI

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has forged a partnership with Microsoft and iCreate to introduce the iMPEL-AI program, to energize Indian artificial intelligence (AI) startup landscape. This strategic collaboration is poised to revolutionize how AI innovations are fostered in India, paving the way for solutions that address both local and global needs.

Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, expressed optimism about the enduring impact of this partnership on India’s AI landscape. He emphasized the pivotal role of emerging technologies like AI, semiconductors, and HPC in shaping the future of technology and underscored the government’s commitment to nurturing and catalyzing the growth of Safe & Trusted AI.

Under the iMPEL-AI program, 1,100 AI innovators across India will be screened to become AI Most Valuable Players (MVPs), focusing on priority areas such as healthcare, financial inclusion, sustainability, education, agriculture, and smart cities. Subsequently, the program will select and scale 100 startups across India to leverage Azure OpenAI, with the top 25 receiving go-to-market support from Microsoft’s Global Network to develop advanced, globally competitive products.

In addition, Microsoft and iCreate will offer AI skilling opportunities to 11,000 innovators, startups, and young Indians nationwide through Microsoft’s Learning Management System. Upon completion, participants will receive globally recognized certifications from Microsoft, enhancing their employability and career prospects.

Jean-Philippe Courtois, Executive Vice President and President, National Transformation Partnerships, Microsoft, highlighted India’s unique position to capitalize on the immense AI opportunity. He emphasized the importance of empowering the next generation of innovators to leverage AI for solving complex problems and driving positive impact. Courtois expressed enthusiasm for the iMPEL-AI innovation program, which aims to foster a vibrant AI ecosystem in India and enable AI innovators and entrepreneurs to address the nation’s AI skill gap and unlock new possibilities across the country.