A session on “Accelerators / Incubation Opportunities” was organised by the Department of Mechanical and Marine Engineering, Srinivas Institute of Technology, in association with the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), on 24th August 2026. The programme was conducted with the objective of introducing students to incubation and acceleration opportunities available for developing innovative ideas into viable startup ventures.

The session focused on the role of startup incubators and accelerators in supporting aspiring entrepreneurs from the idea stage to the development of sustainable and market-oriented ventures. Students were introduced to the concept of college incubation centres and the support systems they can provide, including guidance and opportunities for nurturing innovative ideas. The session also highlighted the importance of innovation, entrepreneurship, mentoring, and institutional support in transforming technical ideas into practical solutions.

Mr. Vivek V Kumar, Second Engineer (Merchant Navy), TORM Tankers, Denmark, served as the resource person. He shared insights into the opportunities available through startup accelerators and incubation programmes and explained how students can make use of institutional and external support mechanisms to develop their innovative concepts. The session also introduced students to the Atal Innovation Mission of the Government of India and Karnataka’s ELEVATE programme, highlighting their relevance to innovation, entrepreneurship, and startup development. The session provided students with an overview of the various pathways available for converting innovative ideas into viable startups. It encouraged students to explore incubation centres, accelerator programmes, government-supported initiatives, and other entrepreneurial opportunities. The programme served as a useful platform for creating awareness about the startup ecosystem and motivating students to pursue innovation and entrepreneurship as avenues for developing practical and commercially relevant solutions.

The programme was coordinated by Prof. Sunil Prakash R., with the support of Dr. Raghavendra M J, IA-IIC. The programme was conducted under the guidance of Dr. Shankar K S, HOD, Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Dr. Lokesh V, HOD, Department of Marine Engineering. The support and encouragement extended by Dr. Shrinivasa Mayya D., Principal, Srinivas Institute of Technology, contributed to the successful conduct of the programme.