TiE Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh can together build North India’s most vibrant innovation ecosystem: CM Sukhvinder Sukhu

Reinforcing its position as one of North India’s most influential entrepreneurial networks, TiE Chandigarh hosted its Leadership Conclave and 23rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Hyatt Regency, Chandigarh, bringing together over 300 entrepreneurs, startup founders, investors, industry leaders, policymakers, academicians and ecosystem enablers from across the region.

The Leadership Conclave was graced by Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, as the Chief Guest.

Over the last two decades, TiE Chandigarh has emerged as a catalyst for entrepreneurship across Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and Chandigarh by nurturing startups through mentoring, investor connect programmes, incubation support, knowledge-sharing sessions, policy advocacy and leadership development initiatives. The chapter has played a pivotal role in strengthening the startup ecosystem by connecting founders with successful entrepreneurs, angel investors, venture capitalists, corporates and academic institutions.

Welcoming the Chief Minister, Puneet Verma, President, TiE Chandigarh, said: ⁠”We are honoured to welcome Hon’ble Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to TiE Chandigarh. Himachal Pradesh is rapidly emerging as a promising destination for innovation-led investments, driven by progressive policies, improved digital infrastructure and growing opportunities across tourism, agri-tech, food processing, renewable energy, healthcare, manufacturing, IT and artificial intelligence.”

He added that TiE Chandigarh looks forward to partnering closely with the Government of Himachal Pradesh to encourage entrepreneurs, startups and investors to establish and expand businesses in the state while generating employment and promoting sustainable economic growth.

“Himachal Pradesh’s focus on strengthening startup ecosystems, technology-enabled governance, entrepreneurship promotion and investment-friendly policies presents tremendous opportunities for innovators. We believe TiE Chandigarh can become a strong partner in mentoring startups, facilitating investments and nurturing innovation across the state,” he said.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu appreciated TiE Chandigarh’s contribution towards building an entrepreneurial culture in North India.

“It gives me immense pleasure to participate in the TiE Chandigarh Leadership Conclave. I congratulate the entire TiE Chandigarh fraternity for creating one of the region’s most impactful platforms for innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership.”

The Chief Minister particularly acknowledged the contribution of President Puneet Verma, who belongs to Palampur, Himachal Pradesh.

“It is a matter of pride for Himachal Pradesh that a son of our soil has successfully led one of North India’s most dynamic entrepreneurial organisations.”

Highlighting the state’s growing focus on innovation-driven development, the Chief Minister said the Government of Himachal Pradesh is committed to creating an enabling ecosystem for startups, technology enterprises and young entrepreneurs.

He said the state is steadily strengthening its startup ecosystem by promoting innovation, improving digital connectivity, expanding IT infrastructure and encouraging entrepreneurship through policy support, incubation, skill development and investment facilitation. Himachal Pradesh offers significant opportunities in agriculture, horticulture, food processing, tourism, wellness, renewable energy, information technology, artificial intelligence and green technologies.

“Our youth possess tremendous talent and innovative ideas. With the right mentorship, funding support, incubation and market linkages, Himachal Pradesh can emerge as a leading innovation hub in the country.”

Calling for greater collaboration with TiE Chandigarh, the Chief Minister said: ⁠”I invite TiE Chandigarh to work closely with the Government of Himachal Pradesh in startup mentoring, investor connect programmes, university innovation initiatives, incubation centres, entrepreneurship development, faculty development and capacity-building programmes. Together, we can build a strong regional ecosystem that creates opportunities for young entrepreneurs and accelerates innovation-led economic growth.”

During the Conclave, TiE Chandigarh also showcased its achievements over the past year under the leadership of President Puneet Verma. The chapter organised several high-impact initiatives including startup mentoring programmes, leadership forums, investor connect sessions, women entrepreneurship initiatives, networking platforms, knowledge workshops and industry interactions, further strengthening its role as one of the country’s most active TiE chapters.

The conclave, themed “Strengthening Partnerships, Advancing Entrepreneurship,” focused on building stronger collaboration between government, industry, investors, academia and entrepreneurs to accelerate innovation and economic development across North India.

The event witnessed participation from more than 300 entrepreneurs, including over 40 women entrepreneurs, along with startup founders, investors, business leaders, policymakers and members of the TiE fraternity. The AGM concluded with the Chapter Awards Ceremony, where the Chief Minister presented awards to distinguished members, followed by a networking dinner.