The Gujarat government has announced a significant milestone in its efforts to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. Over the last four years, the state has extended financial support to a total of 1,543 startups under its Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP 2.0). This initiative underscores Gujarat's commitment to building a robust ecosystem for new ventures.
Financial Backing and Widespread Impact
According to an official release, the state has allocated a substantial Rs 300 crore for SSIP 2.0, spread over a five-year period with an annual grant of Rs 60 crore. The funds are strategically distributed: Rs 30 crore for technical education, Rs 12 crore for the Gujarat Startup and Innovation Hub (i-Hub), Rs 10 crore for higher education, and Rs 8 crore for schools.
The policy's reach is extensive. It has supported the creation of 5,684 proof-of-concepts and prototypes and aided in the filing of 2,296 Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) through 339 institutions across Gujarat. More than ₹32.38 crore has been disbursed specifically for prototype development and fund support.
i-Hub: The Engine of Growth in Ahmedabad
At the heart of this drive is the Gujarat Startup and Innovation Hub (i-Hub) in Ahmedabad. Established under the SSIP policy, i-Hub acts as a core facility for early-stage innovators. It has provided direct, hands-on support to 620 startups, guiding them from idea validation to becoming market-ready enterprises.
The success stories are compelling. Manan Bateriwala, founder of Keepsake Automation, shared how i-Hub was instrumental in his journey. "I began as a freelancer," he said. "When we decided to start a company, i-Hub guided us at every step—from formation and scaling to compliance and legal matters. They helped build our brand and gave us exhibition opportunities." His company now employs 37 people and received a grant of Rs 15 lakh from the state.
Tangible Outcomes and Future Expansion
The results are quantifiable and impressive. Startups incubated at i-Hub have collectively created around 1,400 skilled jobs statewide and achieved a combined market valuation of approximately Rs 3,569 crore. Furthermore, these ventures have attracted over Rs 416 crore in private investment from various venture funds.
i-Hub has also expanded its reach to over 20 districts using a hub-and-spoke model, raising awareness about entrepreneurship among more than 4 lakh young Indians. A special focus on inclusivity is seen through the WEstart initiative, which has supported 196 women-led startups, constituting nearly 30% of the total supported ventures.
To deepen this ecosystem, the government plans to establish four new innovation centres in the next year. These will be located in Vadodara, Surat, Rajkot, and Mehsana, following the successful model of the flagship i-Hub in Ahmedabad.
