Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has officially launched the '100 Cube' startup initiative at IIT-Bhubaneswar.

On Sunday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan unveiled an initiative at IIT-Bhubaneswar's Research and Entrepreneurship Park, with the goal of establishing 100 startups valued at Rs 100 crore each by 2036, coinciding with Odisha's centennial anniversary. The program aims to provide necessary support such as resources, mentorship, seed capital, and access to investors to foster the growth of startups. The park will expand from its current 20,000-square-foot area to approximately 80,000 square feet over the next two years with an investment of Rs 130 crore. Pradhan emphasized the enthusiasm of youth in Odisha and across the country for transforming their ideas into successful ventures, stating that the 100-Cube Start-up Initiative would significantly impact the entrepreneurship landscape. He encouraged entrepreneurs nationwide to invest in Odisha-based startups and urged higher education institutions in Odisha and Eastern India to participate in the initiative. During the event, IIT Bhubaneswar signed Memorandums of Understanding with 15 companies to collaborate strategically towards achieving the 100 Cube goal. Additionally, the Union Minister inaugurated a 1500-seater auditorium and initiated infrastructure projects worth Rs. 450 crores. RP Singh, Chairman of the Board of Governors at IIT Bhubaneswar, underscored the importance of innovation and research for societal progress, emphasizing the responsible use of science and technology.