Collaborative efforts between startup ecosystems and research and development institutions are currently in progress.

The Research Innovation Network Kerala (RINK) of Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) recently organized a visit to the Institute of Advanced Virology (IAV) in Thiruvananthapuram, as part of its initiative to foster collaboration between the startup ecosystem and research and development institutions in the state. The visit aimed to provide startups with opportunities for incubation and co-development of products and services in collaboration with IAV. The autonomous institute, under the Department of Science and Technology of the state government, hosted the RINK delegation at its Life Sciences Park campus. The interaction included exploring central instrumentation facilities, engaging in interactive sessions with scientists, and gaining valuable insights from experts in the field. The visit exemplified RINK's commitment to promoting knowledge-sharing and collaboration between the academic community and startups in the state. Dr. E Sreekumar, the director of IAV, expressed enthusiasm about facilitating participatory research and development initiatives between startups and the Institute. The Innovation and Translation Facilitation Centre (ITFC) at IAV, a premier incubation facility, focuses on supporting startups and industries in various life science streams, with a specific emphasis on addressing infectious diseases. This collaborative effort highlights the substantial support provided by KSUM to empower entrepreneurs in the scientific domain, creating numerous opportunities for startups in the state.