The panel discussion at the ISBACON event focused on various international collaboration efforts and strategies to strengthen startup ecosystems. Here’s a summary of the key points discussed:
Deepanwita’s Perspective on Ecosystem Development: Deepanwita discussed the evolution of venture capital in India and the challenges startups face in securing funds, particularly in sectors like life sciences. She highlighted how IKP was the first to secure implementation funding from the Gates Foundation, which set a precedent for the “grand challenges” model now adopted by many incubators. She also mentioned a collaboration with Copenhagen Business School, where international interns work closely with Hyderabad-based startups, adding a global perspective and fostering expansion opportunities.
German-India Collaboration: Adishri, representing the German Center for Research and Innovation, outlined the agency’s initiatives to build a bilateral ecosystem for research-based entrepreneurship between Germany and India. Since 2021, they have conducted virtual and in-person workshops to connect startups and incubators from both countries, aiming to facilitate mutual learning. They have launched an immersion program where startups from both nations interact, with Hyderabad being one of the chosen cities for these exchanges.
Thailand’s Cross-Border Collaboration Model: Representing Thai BISPA and the Asian Association of Business Incubators (AABI), the speaker described Thailand’s proactive approach to international partnerships. For example, the Sino-Thai acceleration program with Shanghai’s Technology Innovation Center was highlighted as a successful cross-border program that leverages each country’s strengths. Thai incubators specialize in food and agriculture, while Chinese counterparts focus on health and wellness, resulting in a mutually beneficial co-acceleration program. This speaker extended an invitation to ISBA for a similar collaboration.
UK Government’s Incubator Support: The Deputy High Commissioner of the British government in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh highlighted the UK’s commitment to supporting Indian incubators through research councils and collaborative programs. He emphasized the importance of sustainable partnerships and the role of the British government in fostering these connections to support startup growth.
Each speaker reinforced the significance of long-term relationships and mutual trust in cross-border collaborations, with shared success seen as a collective achievement.
