Thread by @Chethan_Dash

#Thread #Space #India

In line with its renewed mandate to hand hold and encourage private industry, @isro and @SocialAlphaIN have launched a new innovation platform for the space sector: SpaceTech Innovation Network or #SpIN. 1/n

This is India’s first dedicated platform for innovation curation & venture development for space entrepreneurial ecosystem. 2/n

“A one-of-its-kind public-pvt collaboration for space startups, SMEs, #SpIN is a step in providing stimulus to India’s space reform policies & will work towards identifying & unleashing mkt potential of most promising space tech innovators & entrepreneurs,” Isro said. 3/n

#SpIN will primarily focus on facilitating space tech entrepreneurs in three distinct innovation categories: Geospatial technologies and downstream applications; Enabling technologies for Space & mobility; and Aerospace materials, sensors, and avionics. 4/n

It has launched its first innovation challenge: Early-stage startups for developing solutions in areas of maritime & land transportation, urbanisation, mapping & surveying, disaster mgt, food security, environmental monitoring, & natural resources mgt etc can apply. 5/n

Selected startups and innovators can access to infra & resources, hand holding in critical areas including access to product design, testing & validation infra, IP mgt, go-to-market strategy, & access to long-term patient capital,among other technical and business inputs. 6/n

Applications are open from Dec 6-Feb 6. “Space applications cut across domains from earth to sky. Innovative technologies are expected to bring a paradigm shift in utilising space applications to maximise economic, social and environmental benefits for the larger society… 7/n

…I wish the SpIN would create a level playing field for various stakeholders to collaborate and contribute to the space ecosystem,” Isro chairman S Somanath said. 8/n

Manoj Kumar, founder, Social Alpha, said Space science, tech & data have the potential to contribute to various SDGs with high-impact applications in ensuring food security, reducing disaster risks, preventing humanitarian crises, and monitoring natural resources. 9/n

“...We have stayed committed to our goal of bringing breakthrough innovations to the social sector with applications across climate, health, and livelihoods, and this partnership with Isro will significantly strengthen our ability to create impact,”Kumar said. n/n