Industry and academic leaders share insights on strengthening the innovation and startup ecosystem in engineering institutions
Chennai, November 30, 2025: PALS, an IIT alumni–led voluntary initiative, hosted EDC 360° – A Conclave on Entrepreneurial Development at IIT Madras, bringing together Heads and Senior Leaders from 40 visionary engineering institutions. The conclave focused on building stronger entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems within engineering colleges and equipping institutions to nurture future-ready engineers.
As part of the event, PALS signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Immersive Technology & Entrepreneurship Labs (ITEL), IIT Madras, and AIC Anna Incubator, marking a significant step towards mentoring and supporting early-stage startups emerging from PALS partner institutions.
PALS today works closely with 67 visionary engineering colleges, driving a quiet transformation in engineering education through multiple means, including nurturing innovation, practical skills, and entrepreneurial thinking.
Welcoming the gathering, R. Krishnamurti Rao, PALS Champion and Head of the PALS Innovation Tower, shared the evolution of PALS over the last 13 years and emphazing its contribution to innovation and entrepreneurship. What began as a small alumni initiative has now grown into a robust bridge connecting IITs, industry, and private engineering institutions across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Nepal.
Mohan Narayanan, Governing Board Member, PALS said “PALS’ entrepreneurship forum has set a vision for itself to help create at least one successful startup from every institution that partners with it. Today’s EDC conclave is a step to understand common issues, challenges and opportunities our institutions face so that we can fine-tune our offerings that will help them successful in their journey to create successful entrepreneurs”.
The highlight of the conclave was the inaugural address by Prof. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Chairman, ITEL. He said “Having a technical idea is not enough for a start-up pave the way to success, requiring guidance from seasoned faculty and industry experts. Talent is everywhere, not just premier colleges – many successful startups have proven this. Focus on local problems like water logging, urban transport, and cyber security can lead to innovation. While not all students will become founders, 15% can sustain the journey with the right nurturing.
Dr. Shankar Venugopal, VP – Technology & Innovation, Mahindra & Mahindra, spoke on how real-world industry challenges can serve as catalysts for Innovation Labs within engineering colleges. He highlighted the importance of academia–industry collaboration for quicker problem-solving and building student competencies.
A panel featuring EDC Heads and senior faculty from five PALS-partner colleges discussed:
• Building campus innovation ecosystems
• Academic models such as credits, internships, and courses for entrepreneurship
• Collaborations with industry and incubators
• Challenges and solutions in establishing a sustainable EDC
The panel was widely appreciated for its practical insights and replicable strategies.
Dr. Satyanarayanan Seshadri, Head, School of Innovation & Entrepreneurship, IIT Madras, Prof. Richa Agarwal, Advisor, E-Cell, IIT Madras and Mr. Kishore Kumar, CEO, were the other key speakers at the event.
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