Punjab minister launches two initiatives to boost startup ecosystem

Mohali, Jul 9 (PTI) Punjab Industries and Commerce Minister Aman Arora on Thursday launched two new initiatives, Punjab Investor Circle and Startup Punjab Hub-Neuron 2.0, to strengthen the state's startup ecosystem and attract greater investment in innovation-driven enterprises. The initiatives were launched at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology in Mohali during an event organised by Startup Punjab. Punjab Investor Circle is aimed at connecting startups with venture capitalists, industry leaders and mentors, while Neuron 2.0 will focus on advanced skilling, deep-tech incubation and the establishment of a dedicated cybersecurity laboratory. Addressing the gathering, Arora said the Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab government is committed to building an innovation-led economy by providing policy support, incubation facilities and funding for startups. Investor Circle would serve as a long-term platform to bridge the gap between innovation and investment, he said, adding that sustainable growth requires strong partnerships between the government, investors and entrepreneurs. The event featured pitching sessions by 14 startups from sectors, including information technology, healthcare, agritech, manufacturing and deep technology. Startups presented their business plans before investors and mentors to seek funding, strategic guidance and long-term partnerships. Highlighting the state's startup ecosystem, Arora said Punjab has more than 2,500 DPIIT-recognised startups. Startup Punjab has provided seed funding of over Rs 6.8 crore to more than 222 startups. The minister said nearly half of the recognised startups in the state have at least one female director, reflecting the growing participation of women entrepreneurs. Speaking about Neuron 2.0, Arora said the earlier Neuron programme had incubated 114 technology startups, facilitated 67 intellectual property filings, generated nearly 2,700 jobs and helped participating startups achieve a cumulative valuation of around Rs 890 crore. He said the upgraded programme would further strengthen Punjab's startup ecosystem through advanced skilling infrastructure and a dedicated cybersecurity lab. Senior officials, including Industries and Commerce Administrative Secretary Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Punjab Development Commission Vice-Chairperson Seema Bansal and Invest Punjab CEO Amit Dhaka, were present at the launch. PTI VSD BAL BAL