Ahmedabad, October 17, 2026 – SSIP 2.0 Startup and Innovation Awareness Program Held Dr. Vice Chancellor of Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University, Prof. Under the guidance of Ami Upadhyaya and Director of ISIICTL Department, Prof. According to the directions of Manoj Shah, 'Development Week 2026 – SSIP 2.0 Startup and Innovation Awareness Program' was organized at the university on October 8, 2026.
The main objective of the program was to create awareness among the students about innovative thinking, entrepreneurship and startup ecosystem. Guidance was given to convert his innovative ideas into practical ventures. Throughout the program, sessions were organized by experts on various topics related to startup, innovation and entrepreneurship.
ICAI-WIRC Chairman CA Rinkesh Shah, M/s Venus Engineering Works Director Mr. Anay Mashruwala and Gujarat Government CED Manager Mr. Dharmendra Pandya were present in the inaugural session. Prof. While introducing the program, Manoj Shah discussed various challenges faced by startups. Gave special information about understanding the startup ecosystem and taking advantage of the opportunities available in it. SSIP Project Consultant of the University Mr. Tejendra Parma welcomed me.
CA Rinkesh Shah clarified the role of startups, innovation and entrepreneurship in realizing the vision of a developed India. Mr. Anay Mashruwala interacted with the students and encouraged them to understand the startup ecosystem and take advantage of the entrepreneurial opportunities. Shri Dharmendra Pandya gave information about the basic principles of startup and entrepreneurship and government schemes.
WIRC's RCM CA Fenil Shah explained the importance of developing technical skills as per the need of today's time. He presented details about the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing the growth and efficiency of startups. Mr. Karamjeet Singh Bihola, Founder of Innodesk Designovation Services, gave information about design thinking and ideation process. Head of GLS University Incubation Center, Dr. Hima Trivedi explained the importance of market research, competitive analysis, branding, communication and digital marketing.
In the final session 'Startup Founder Talk', Mr. Satya Mehta and Mr. Haley Soparkar talked about their entrepreneurial experiences. He informed the students about the challenges faced during the establishment and development of a startup and the lessons learned from it. Apart from this, he presented his views on the role of patience, continuous efforts, proper planning and government support in the growth of startups. Dr., Founder of Shree Dutta Law Consultancy. Preeti Chauthani gave detailed information about the protection of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), Patent, Trademark, Copyright and Industrial Design. Prof. Manoj Shah talked about financial planning, costing, financing and venture capital for startups. He explained the importance of proper financial management for the successful operation and growth of a startup.
At the end of the session, certificates were given to the participating students. This program was organized under SSIP 2.0 under 'Development Week 2026' of Gujarat Government. This was an intensive effort to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship among the students and convert their ideas into startups. It will be a useful investment in contributing to the resolve of 'Developed India'.