Big Push for Startups as Amit Shah Opens Gujarat Conclave

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the two-day Startup Conclave 2025 at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, on 23rd Sep. The event brought together over 170 startups along with investors, policy-makers, and entrepreneurs from across the country. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Higher Education Minister Rishikesh Patel were also present. Addressing the gathering, Shah emphasized the shift from 'projects to job-seekers' to empowering youth as 'job-makers.' He urged investors to support early-stage ventures, highlighting that Indian startups have generated employment for 17.9 lakh people, with 48% founded by women.

The conclave showcased startups across sectors such as health, fintech, agritech, green energy, and technology. It featured prototype exhibitions, investor-founder interactions, and seven thematic sessions aimed at improving innovation, financial models, and university-industry collaborations.

CM Bhupendra Patel said the conclave would further establish Gujarat as a leading entrepreneurial hub. Minister Rishikesh Patel emphasized the importance of academic institutions in transforming research into viable businesses.

While participants appreciated the platform, several startup founders pointed out ongoing challenges such as lack of early-stage funding and access to pilot customers. Investors also called for improved procurement mechanisms and sector-specific incubation, particularly in climate and health tech.

Round-table discussions focused on actionable steps, including better startup registries, blended finance models, and incentives for government procurement. Organisers noted the conclave aims to offer practical policy suggestions for both state and central governments. They also announced plans to create a matchmaking platform to connect startups with investors and procurement channels.

Participants hope the conclave leads to real outcomes such as funding, contracts, and policy shifts to help startups move from concept to commercialization.