Shillong, April 22, 2026: The Promotion and Incubation of Market-driven Enterprises Meghalaya hosted PRIME IGNITE 2026 at the Durbar Hall Lok Bhavan to mark World Creativity and Innovation Day, bringing together entrepreneurs, students, and government officials to celebrate innovation and strengthen the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
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| Entrepreneurs, students, and officials gather at the Durbar Hall Lok Bhavan during PRIME IGNITE 2026, celebrating innovation and entrepreneurship in Meghalaya. |
The event featured the launch of the PRIME Annual Booklet, highlighting the programme’s achievements, partnerships, and impact over the past year. Contributors and members of the editorial team were also recognised during the ceremony.
Youth leadership and entrepreneurship were also highlighted with the PRIME Student Ambassador Contest awards. The top prize was won by the team from the College of Community Science, while students from Jaintia Eastern College secured the first and second runner-up positions.
Addressing the gathering, Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh, Adviser to the Government of Meghalaya for Planning, Investment Promotion and Sustainable Development, said the state is committed to transforming its entrepreneurial landscape.
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She emphasised that innovation in Meghalaya is driven by citizens while the government plays a supporting role. Lyngdoh highlighted that the CM ELEVATE initiative has already supported 2,847 entrepreneurs, funded more than 885 entities, and registered around 1,350 PRIME startups.
In his keynote address, D D Shira, Director of the Meghalaya Institute of Entrepreneurship, said innovation and creativity are essential in addressing global challenges. He noted that PRIME, launched under the vision of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, has significantly supported local entrepreneurs through mentorship, funding, and market linkages.
The event also saw the launch of three digital initiatives aimed at supporting entrepreneurs. These include the PRIME Digital Service Providers Platform (PRIME DSPP) to streamline services, the Ekanbha website to help artisans with disabilities access e-commerce opportunities, and the ONG YI Delivery App, Upper Shillong’s first online home delivery service.
The programme also showcased innovations from local entrepreneurs and student teams across sectors such as healthcare manufacturing, tourism technology, and advanced IT and IoT solutions.
Officials said PRIME IGNITE 2026 reflects Meghalaya’s growing commitment to fostering innovation, supporting local enterprises, and strengthening the state’s economic development.
