JAMMU: Model Institute of Engineering and Technology (MIET), Jammu, in collaboration with FICCI FLO JKL, organised the Jammu and Kashmir Startup Conclave 2026 (JKSC 2026) at the MIET campus on November 14, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, academic leaders and government officials to promote innovation and strengthen the region’s startup ecosystem.
Supported by The Ashok Kapur Foundation, the conclave provided a platform for budding entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas, interact with industry experts and explore opportunities for business development and investment.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Ankur Gupta, Director, MIET, who welcomed the distinguished speakers, including Suman Masciarelli, Founder of HOPE ROZA and Bexley Studio; Abhit Kalsotra, Chief Technology Officer, MapMyIndia; Dr. Deepak Motwani, Principal Investor Relations, Wadhwani Foundation; and Prof. Rajeev Roy, Director, First Bridge Business School.
Varsha Bansal, Chairperson, FICCI FLO JKL, highlighted the organisation’s role in supporting entrepreneurs, particularly women entrepreneurs, across the region. Kuwarani Dr. Ritu Singh was felicitated on behalf of The Ashok Kapur Foundation in recognition of its support to the conclave.
The keynote speakers shared their experiences of establishing and scaling businesses across technology, consumer brands, business education and startup funding. Their sessions focused on transforming ideas into market-ready products, scaling technology ventures, preparing startups for investment and the importance of mentoring and incubation during the early stages of business development.
Participants also visited startup stalls at the venue and interacted with entrepreneurs from the region, followed by an audience interaction and fireside chat with the keynote speakers, moderated by Prof. Ankur Gupta.
The second half featured a panel discussion on “Accelerating the Development of the Startup Ecosystem in J&K”, moderated by Ajay Khajuria, Professor of Practice, MIET Jammu.
The panel included Dr. Arun Kumar Manhas (JKAS), Director, Industries and Commerce, Government of J&K; Sudarshan Kumar (JKAS), Managing Director, JKTPO; Prof. M. T. Arvind, Chief Innovation Officer, IIT Jammu; and Dr. Vivek Sharma, Chief Innovation Officer, IIM Jammu.
The discussion focused on government policies, institutional support, access to funding and industry collaboration required to help young entrepreneurs establish sustainable businesses. The panellists appreciated MIET and FICCI FLO for organising the conclave and encouraged students to embrace entrepreneurship and new venture creation as avenues for contributing to regional growth.
The Startup Awards emerged as a major highlight, with leading ventures receiving recognition for their contribution to the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Five startups—GR8 Sports India Pvt. Ltd., Studio Agama Interior, PureMart Himalayan Foods Pvt. Ltd., SAAR System Solutions Pvt. Ltd. and Green Trek Research and Development Pvt. Ltd.—were named recipients of the JK Startup Pride Award.
In the Early-Stage Promising Startup Awards, 22 ventures competed for recognition. Jivisha Health Pvt. Ltd. was declared the Most Promising Early-Stage Startup of Jammu and Kashmir and received the first prize of Rs. 75,000. Basohli Pashmina Dhaage secured second place with Rs. 50,000, while Donut Mall won third prize of Rs. 25,000. The remaining 19 participating startups were also recognised during the ceremony.
The Elevator Pitching Competition witnessed 78 entries from institutions across the region, with 30 teams shortlisted for the final round. Following evaluation by the jury, Dupahar AI secured the first prize of Rs. 25,000, followed by Vessel Vision, which received Rs. 15,000, and Amulya Swaad, which won Rs. 10,000.
The conclave concluded with a vote of thanks by Rupika Sahai, Senior Vice-Chairperson, FICCI FLO JKL, followed by a networking session that provided participants an opportunity to connect with speakers, investors and industry representatives.
Among other dignitaries present were Col. (Retd.) Rajesh Sharma, Registrar, MIET; Varuna Anand, Past Chair, FICCI FLO JKL; Ruchika Gupta, Past Chair, FICCI FLO JKL and Joint Director, MIET; Sona Mehta, Vice-Chairperson; and Deepti Gandotra, Joint Secretary.
