New Delhi, June 10, 2024: The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), under the auspices of NITI Aayog, proudly announces the launch of two groundbreaking initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and sustainability in India: the ‘AIM – ICDK Water Challenge 4.0’ and the fifth edition of ‘Innovations for You’ handbook, spotlighting SDG entrepreneurs of India.
In collaboration with the Innovation Centre Denmark (ICDK) at the Royal Danish Embassy in India, AIM presents the fourth edition of the open innovation water challenge. This initiative, a cornerstone of the Indo-Danish bilateral green strategic partnership, endeavors to address critical water-related challenges through inventive solutions. The selected teams will form the Indian cohort, participating in the global Next Generation Digital Action program and engaging with young talents from leading universities and innovation hubs of nine countries.
Participants from the selected teams can anticipate an engagement in a hybrid innovation journey comprising group work, boot camp sessions, keynotes, and personalized mentoring. The program encourages exploration of sustainability, digital solutions, inclusion, and universal design principles. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to showcase innovations at the Digital Tech Summit scheduled in Copenhagen from October 30th to 31st, 2024, funded by the Government of Denmark.
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The challenge invites entries under two tracks: one for students and the other for young entrepreneurs, both under the age of 35. Early-stage startups, researchers, and young innovators committed to driving positive environmental change are encouraged to apply. The student journey focuses on Digital Action for Societal Impact, brought forward by external partners through sustainability challenges with a specific focus on digitization. The Young Entrepreneurs track presents an exciting opportunity for Indian technology startups in the early stages to accelerate their ideas and form global partnerships.
Speaking during the launch event, Mission Director AIM, NITI Aayog Dr. Chintan Vaishnav said, “These initiatives epitomize our relentless pursuit of innovation and sustainability, propelling India towards a brighter, more resilient future. Through collaborative efforts with partners like ICDK and the Royal Danish Embassy in India, we aim to address pressing challenges and empower young innovators to drive positive change in both countries.”
Minister Counsellor, Head of Trade Council in New Delhi & Regional Coordinator South Asia, Royal Danish Embassy, Soren Norrelund Kannik-Marquardsen, expressed his delight, stating, “This challenge aims to combine the skills of Danish and Indian entrepreneurs to solve global challenges that not only affect India and Denmark but the whole world.”
The call for applications commences on June 10th, 2024, with the deadline set for June 20th, 2024. Interested applicants can access the application link here.
In addition to the ICDK water challenge, AIM introduced the fifth edition of ‘Innovations For You’, a coffee table book series spotlighting the endeavors of SDG Entrepreneurs of India. This edition features 60 entrepreneurs from diverse corners of India, each contributing to societal betterment through sustainable innovations.
These startups focus on recyclable and renewable materials, green energy, inclusive education, and advocacy for underrepresented communities and local artisans. The book can be accessed here.
