KIT’s Innovation and Research Foundation, KIT’s IRF, a Section (8) company incorporated under Companies Act 2013 (CIN U80900PN2022NPL214531), supported by Maharashtra State Innovation Society (MSInS), Department of Skills, Employment, Entrepreneurship and innovation Government of Maharashtra (GoM) and Department of Science and Technology (DST), MoST, GoI under NIDHI i-TBI (National Initiatives for Developing and Harnessing Innovations - Inclusive TBI) and located at HI, Kolhapur Institute of Technology’s College of Engineering Kolhapur (Empowered Autonomous), with the Vision “To Develop a Self-sustaining Technology Business Incubator, KIT’s IRF, for Innovation Driven Technology Startups for Inclusive Socio-economic Development”.
Since its initiation, the KIT’s IRF has emerged as a dynamic TBI for Cutting-edge Research, Startup Incubation, and Industry-Academia collaboration. With a robust Startup selection and review mechanism, it has successfully incubated a blend of physical and virtual Startups across various Sectors, like AgriTech, HealthTech, EduTech, Services, IT, IoT & IIoT, AI & ML, Miscellaneous, etc. Noteworthy achievements, such as achieving target milestones, establishing strategic collaborations with industry and academia, and conducting impactful programs, underline the KIT’s IRF dedication to nurturing Inclusive and Innovation-Driven emerging talents.
Trustees, KITCOEK and Board of Directors, KIT's IRF
Mr. Sajid Hudli
Chairman
Mr. Sachin Menon
Vice Chairman
Mr. Dipak Chougule
Secretary
Mr. Sunil Kulkarni
Trustee Director, IMER
Mr. Bharat Patil
Trustee
Mrs. Shilpaja P. Kangutkar-Pungaonkar
Trustee
Mr. Dilip Joshi
Trustee
Col. Pratapsinh Raorane (Rtd.)
Trustee
Dr. Mohan Vanarotti
PI, Chairman, Operational Board
KIT's IRF
At KIT's IRF, we are dedicated to fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurs in building successful ventures. We equip startups with the right tools, mentorship, and ecosystem to transform ideas into impactful solutions.
As Chairman of the Operational Board and Director of KIT's College of Engineering, the host institute of our incubation center, I take pride in the synergy between our academic excellence and entrepreneurial ecosystem. The vibrant campus of KITCoEK provides a strong foundation for research, innovation, and collaboration, further empowering our startups.
Whether you're at the idea stage or scaling your business, KIT's IRF is here to walk with you on your journey to excellence. Let’s innovate, grow, and make a difference together!!
Sudhir M. Arali
CEO
KIT's IRF
We are dedicated to creating a thriving ecosystem where startups can grow, innovate, and succeed. By providing entrepreneurs with the resources, guidance, and networks they need, we help transform their ideas into impactful ventures.
As CEO, I believe in fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Backed by the legacy of KIT’s College of Engineering, our incubation center bridges academia and industry, offering a unique platform for startups to access cutting-edge research and practical insights. This vibrant synergy ensures a robust foundation for sustainable growth.
Our incubation center is a space where creativity meets opportunity, empowering startups to overcome challenges and achieve remarkable milestones. We invite you to be a part of this exciting journey. Together, let’s drive innovation, build impactful solutions, and contribute to a brighter future.
Interns Team(2025-26)
Mr. Sanskar Kadam
Ms. Aditi Rewadkar
Mr.Siddheshwar More
Mr. Shivcharan Chintale
Ms.Preeti Raut
Mr.Suyog Mali
Ms.Mohini Deshmukh
Mr. Shriraj Patil