Mangaluru's Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management inaugurated the ACIC Sahyadri Foundation on September 8, 2026, establishing a new Atal Community Innovation Centre. This significant step, supported by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) of NITI Aayog, Government of India, aims to invigorate grassroots innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods across Coastal Karnataka.
The foundation specifically targets supporting grassroots innovators, entrepreneurs, and startups, guiding them from initial concepts to successful commercialisation. Its core mission involves empowering local talent and harnessing regional strengths to foster a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The inauguration ceremony drew a notable gathering, featuring Capt. Ganesh Karnik, an Army Veteran and former MLC, as Chief Guest, and Ms. Deepakshi Jindal from the Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, as Guest of Honour. The audience comprised students, faculty, startup founders, industry professionals, government representatives, and other regional entrepreneurial community members. Attendees also toured Sahyadri's advanced innovation infrastructure, including Vkon Automation and Mphasis Labs, immediately following the ACIC facility's official opening.
During the formal program, Mr. Johnson Tellis, CEO of Sahyadri College, delivered the welcome. Capt. Ganesh Karnik's keynote address highlighted the expanding opportunities for innovation in India. He urged students to cultivate curiosity, question existing practices, and develop strong, hands-on problem-solving skills, particularly for challenges unique to local regions. Ms. Deepakshi Jindal emphasized the immense innovation potential within India's Tier-2, -3, and -4 areas, encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to leverage ACIC Sahyadri and government schemes to transform their ideas.
Dr. Manjappa Sarathy, Director – R&D, elaborated on Sahyadri College's dedication to innovation, entrepreneurship, and project-based learning, viewing it as a critical driver for regional wealth creation. Dr. S. S. Injaganeri, Principal, underscored the importance of institutional support, faculty mentorship, and access to grants for nurturing successful ventures. Mr. Dinu Anand R., CEO of ACIC Sahyadri Foundation, presented the Centre's vision as an all-encompassing support system for entrepreneurs.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Mangalorean News