The Centre of Excellence (CoE) for IoT and AI in Vizag has made significant strides in fostering deep-tech innovation, securing ₹131 crore in funding for eight AI and IoT startups. 

This CoE, a collaborative initiative under the Digital India initiative involving the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Andhra Pradesh Innovation Society (APIS), and NASSCOM, is dedicated to advancing technological progress in various sectors.

Inauguration and Facilities

The CoE was inaugurated on November 30, 2021, by Hon'ble MoS Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar and the former AP State IT Minister, in the presence of the Secretary of MeitY and the Principal Secretary of AP-IT. Located in the heart of Visakhapatnam on the Andhra University campus, the centre features a state-of-the-art working lab and a startup area with 65 seats. It focuses on digital innovation in ports, logistics, and Industry 4.0 and collaborates closely with the Andhra Pradesh government on digital transport, agriculture, health, and education projects.

Impact and Success Stories

The CoE Vizag has become a launchpad for numerous success stories, showcasing the profound impact of technology and collaboration. The recent funding success of ₹131 crores for eight AI and IoT startups highlights the centre's role in driving innovation. These startups deliver cutting-edge solutions to various government entities, including Hindustan Shipyard Limited and Vizag Port, as well as a broad spectrum of private clients.

Commitment and Vision

Sanjeev Malhotra, CEO of the NASSCOM Centre of Excellence, emphasized the importance of collaboration in this dynamic field: “Emerging technologies are evolving rapidly, and it’s essential to harness their full potential. No single entity can achieve this alone. While large corporations may provide foundational technologies like software or chips, it is the innovative startups that bring groundbreaking applications to life. Our role is to unite these diverse elements and stakeholders, accelerating the innovation process and collaborating with the government to drive progress.”

Supporting Deep-Tech Startups

Malhotra further highlighted the CoE’s role in supporting deep-tech startups: “The CoE in Visakhapatnam serves as a critical platform for innovation and industry collaboration. By fostering a thriving ecosystem for startups, the CoE is addressing real-world manufacturing challenges and advancing the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies. Our primary goal is to create innovative applications and capabilities by leveraging the creative energy of startups and the expertise of corporate partners.”

Key Stakeholders and Collaboration

The CoE's success is a testament to the collaboration between MeitY, APIS, NASSCOM, the State Government, and various industry partners. Their joint efforts are driving technological advancement and economic growth in the region.

The CoE for IoT and AI in Vizag continues to be at the forefront of digital innovation, paving the way for technological advancements and contributing significantly to India's startup ecosystem.