Bhubaneswar, August 18: The Odisha government is stepping up efforts to strengthen entrepreneurship, innovation and startup growth in the state, with the MSME Department expanding its initiatives through Startup Odisha.

Odisha currently has more than 2,800 recognised startups, and the department is now working on a fresh expansion programme aimed at bringing more entrepreneurs into the state’s startup ecosystem.

According to Startup Odisha, the state has set a target of promoting 2,000 additional startups over the next two years.

More Incubation Support for Emerging Entrepreneurs

A key focus of the expansion plan is strengthening incubation centres, which help young entrepreneurs turn ideas into viable and commercially sustainable businesses through mentoring, infrastructure, technology and other support.

At present, around 35 incubation centres are functioning in Odisha with support from educational institutions and industry partners.

The government plans to increase this number to 50 by the end of the current year.

The expansion is expected to provide startups with improved access to incubation facilities, technological assistance, expert guidance and industry linkages.

Turning Ideas Into Businesses

The initiative aims to support promising startup ideas from the early stage and help them move towards commercialisation.

With wider incubation support and an expanded network of startup centres, the government expects more innovative ideas from students, young entrepreneurs and emerging businesses to receive the guidance needed to develop into sustainable enterprises.

The planned growth of the startup ecosystem is also expected to strengthen Odisha’s position as a destination for innovation-led entrepreneurship and new-age businesses.

Focus on Innovation and Employment

The expansion of Startup Odisha comes as the state continues to focus on creating opportunities for entrepreneurship alongside traditional employment.

By encouraging startups and strengthening incubation infrastructure, the government hopes to create an ecosystem where innovative ideas can receive the necessary support, attract investment and eventually generate jobs.

With more than 2,800 recognised startups already in the state and a target of supporting another 2,000 in the next two years, Odisha is looking to accelerate its journey towards becoming a stronger hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.