Surat, Gujarat: On 25th February 2026 Wednesday, Shri M. Nagarajan, Commissioner of Surat Municipal Corporation, his visionary leadership and unwavering support in enabling an encouragement has played a pivotal role in promoting innovation-driven growth within the healthcare startup ecosystem of Surat.

Gujarat Student Startup and Innovation Hub (i-Hub), established under the Student Startup and Innovation Policy (SSIP) by the Education Department, Government of Gujarat, successfully organized a Sensitization on Startup Awareness Program for medical students, faculty members, and resident doctors with the valuable support of the Surat Municipal Corporation.

The program aimed to empower UG/PG medical students and faculty members by providing comprehensive guidance on transforming innovative healthcare ideas into scalable startups. The initiative focused on strengthening the bridge between medical education and the startup ecosystem, encouraging research-driven innovation in healthcare and biotechnology sectors. Nearly 600 plus US/PG students and Medical faculties had participated in this program.

The full-day program was structured into two dedicated sessions morning sessions for medical students and afternoon sessions for faculty members and resident doctors. The event featured presentations on the innovation ecosystem, startup opportunities, and flagship schemes such as Srujan Seed Support (S4). Participants were introduced to funding support, incubation facilities, co-working spaces, and mentorship opportunities available with State Government.

External speakers and successful startup founders shared practical insights on building healthcare ventures, navigating real-world entrepreneurial challenges, and leveraging government-backed initiatives. Live startup pitching sessions further enriched the program by providing hands-on exposure to innovation and commercialization pathways.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation and active engagement from attendees, fostering awareness about entrepreneurship, healthcare innovation, and institutional collaboration. The program laid a strong foundation for nurturing a culture of innovation within medical institutions under SMC and strengthened the connection between academia and Gujarat’s rapidly growing startup ecosystem.