Itanagar, June 19: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Friday reaffirmed the state government's commitment to building a robust startup and innovation ecosystem during the inaugural session of the 4th Edition of the Arunachal Pradesh Entrepreneurship Development Programme (APEDP 4.0).
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| Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein interacts with officials and startup founders during the 4th Edition of the Arunachal Pradesh Entrepreneurship Development Programme (APEDP 4.0) at the Arunachal Pradesh Innovation and Investment Park (APIIP). (Image: X/ChownaMeinBJP) |
Addressing participants at the event, Mein highlighted the significant strides made by the state in promoting entrepreneurship and supporting emerging businesses. He noted that Arunachal Pradesh has earned national recognition as a “Best Performer” under the National Startup Ranking Framework 5.0, reflecting the government's sustained efforts to nurture innovation and create opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the Arunachal Pradesh Innovation and Investment Park (APIIP) has played a key role in fostering startups across the state. Since its inception, APIIP has incubated 156 startups, helping young entrepreneurs transform innovative ideas into viable business ventures.
He further announced that the annual intake capacity under the startup incubation programme has been expanded from 50 to 100 startups, enabling more entrepreneurs to access mentorship, training, and financial support. In a major boost to startup funding, the government has also enhanced seed capital assistance. Under the revised framework, the top 20 percent of selected startups will receive seed funding of ₹10 lakh, up from the earlier ₹5 lakh, while the remaining startups will receive ₹8 lakh instead of ₹4 lakh.
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To further accelerate the growth of the startup ecosystem, Mein revealed that a dedicated building for APIIP will be provided during the coming financial year. The government is also moving forward with a proposal to establish a State Sponsored Venture Fund aimed at strengthening access to capital and supporting promising startups in scaling their businesses.
Congratulating startups that advanced to the investment pitching stage, the Deputy Chief Minister praised their innovation, resilience, and determination. He said the entrepreneurial spirit demonstrated by young innovators would play a crucial role in shaping Arunachal Pradesh’s economic future.
The APEDP 4.0 programme is expected to provide a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts to collaborate, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities for sustainable business growth. The initiative forms part of the state government’s broader vision to position Arunachal Pradesh as a leading hub for entrepreneurship, innovation, and startup-driven development in the Northeast.
