Maharashtra State Innovation Society

Maharashtra State Innovation Society (MSInS) was established under the Department of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of Maharashtra, to drive innovation and minimize economic disparities in the state. Registered under the Society Registration Act, 1860, on 18th August 2017, MSInS serves as a nodal agency to promote innovation-driven growth and efficiency across sectors. It provides a platform for academicians, entrepreneurs, researchers, and government bodies to foster a culture of innovation, leveraging both national and international expertise.

As part of its efforts to boost entrepreneurial ecosystems, MSInS has recognized KIT's IRF as a key enabler for fostering startups and innovation in Maharashtra. Through its support, MSInS has sanctioned ₹5 Cr. to KIT's IRF for five years. This funding is a testament to KIT’s IRF’s commitment to driving impactful initiatives and contributing to the growth of innovative Startups in the region.

Board of Directors, KIT's IRF

1.jpg
Mr. Sajid Hudli
Chairman
1.jpg
Mr. Sachin Menon
Vice Chairman
1.jpg
Mr. Dipak Chougule
Secretary
1.jpg
Mr. Sunil Kulkarni
Trustee Director, IMER
1.jpg
Mr. Bharat Patil
Trustee
1.jpg
Mrs. Shilpaja P. Kangutkar-Pungaonkar
Trustee
1.jpg
Mr. Dilip Joshi
Trustee
1.jpg
Col. Pratapsinh Raorane (Rtd.)
Trustee

The Jt. CEO, MSInS is Observer on the Board

Team KIT's IRF for MSInS

Dr. Mohan Vanarotti
Dr. Mohan Vanarotti
PI and Director, KITCoEK

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!!

Mr. Sudhir Arali
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.

Mr. Sameer S. Punaskar
Mr. Sameer S. Punaskar
Incubation Manager (Startups & Programs)
 Mr. Rishikesh S. Dudhgaonkar
Mr. Rishikesh S. Dudhgaonkar
Incubate Associate (Events & Programs)
Mr. Sandip B. Lad
Mr. Sandip B. Lad
Accountant cum Admin

Some of their key initiatives

  • Maharashtra startup week
    Maharashtra Startup Week is a program that aims to support and engage the state's entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing a platform for startups to showcase their innovative solutions to the government. The top 100 startups from various sectors are selected to present their solutions to a panel of judges, including government officials, industry experts, academicians, and corporate partners. The best 24 startups are chosen, and they receive up to Rs 15 lakh to pilot their solutions within state departments. The winners also receive government machinery and mentoring from institutional partners for up to 12 months to deploy their solutions.

  • Network of incubators
    The state is planning to fund and establish a network of 16 startup incubators.

  • Business plan competitions
    The Maharashtra State Innovative Start-up Policy, 2018 aims to promote global exposure to the start-up ecosystem and deepen government-start-up engagement. The annual Business Plan Competition in districts of Maharashtra is organized by District Innovation Councils, inviting applications online. The competition is divided into three categories, requiring applicants to propose innovative solutions or products for district growth. It also provides a platform for schools, colleges, and individuals to propose business ideas addressing local community and societal issues.

  • Hirakani Maharashtrachi
    The initiative offers mentorship and financial assistance to women entrepreneurs working within Self Help Groups, enabling them to transform their innovative ideas into scalable and sustainable businesses.