The Growing Startup Ecosystem of Dehradun

Published on: 08 January 2021 Last Updated on: 14 October 2024

Startups are often associated with the bustle of the big cities – the busy metropolitans which attract talent from across the country to its teeming opportunities, rising businesses, and thriving lifestyle amenities. No one would quite think about the quaint hilly landscape of Uttarakhand, mostly known for its scenic views and local cottage industries when one thinks of startups. But its leading city Dehradun, known as an education hub, is also becoming home to several startup companies. Today, the state boasts of over 66 businesses that are a part of the Government of India’s Startup India program.

Investing in local talent, the State Government’s efforts like the Startup Uttarakhand Initiative and the announcement of Uttarakhand Startup Policy 2018, have boosted the entrepreneurship scenario in this hill town. The town has a mostly agrarian population as well as ex-military and other service-background folks who have a limited risk appetite. But over the years, private investors have grown to explore start-up enterprises in the state.

At present, numerous IT companies in Dehradun have sprung up, making it one of the startup and technological hub of the nation. Here’s a look at some of the factors that are driving growth:

Partnerships:

Under the aegis of the State Government, a specialized advisory group on startup, innovation, and entrepreneurship has encouraged the growth of startups in the state. While this is already a great boost for the local startup ecosystem, partnerships with giants like Amazon, Google, Headstart Network Foundation, and EChai Ventures also offer the much-needed support to help the startup ecosystem blossom and thrive. Moreover, Dehradun also has its very own TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) chapter which brings the community together to uplift the entrepreneurship scenario. There are a few more state-funded initiatives like Angel Investment Workshop, Startup Yatra, and Startup Grand Challenge which have contributed to startup development in the form of entrepreneurial guidance, financial support, etc.

Incubators in and around Dehradun:

Incubators are important to propel the growth of startups and similar ventures. Here are some incubators in and around Dehradun that are nudging the city’s ecosystem forward.

US Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (UCES):

University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES)-based business incubator’s aim is to nurture tech-startups. It has incubated several startups in and around Dehradun and has also impacted business outreach in other states, including expanding to support software companies in Delhi. Their main focus lies in areas like energy technology, edtech, transport tech, food processing, e-commerce, gaming, etc.

Technology Business Incubator (TBI):

An initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the central government of India, TBI has its focus on sectors like dairy and food processing, bio-pesticides, chemical engineering, etc.

Startup Incubator and Entrepreneurship Development Society (STRIEDS):

A brainchild of Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, STRIEDS has built an interactive space for young business enterprises to engage with students, boost college-based entrepreneurship and career opportunities. It is recognized by the Startup Uttarakhand initiative.

Technology Incubation and Entrepreneurship Development Society (TIEDS):

Started by the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, TIEDS was established to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in Uttarakhand. Some of the startups incubated under the TIEDS are Log9 Materials, Fermentech Labs, and more.

Infrastructure and Facilities

Tier 2 towns like Dehradun offer startups affordable rents, shorter commutes, and better quality of life.

As a result, talented students can now find jobs locally with these startups, reducing the need to migrate to Tier 1 cities. The pandemic has further fueled reverse migration, increasing available resources and talent.

In conclusion, Dehradun is emerging as a smart city. It won’t be surprising to see capable ventures from its soil contribute significantly to India’s startup ecosystem.

As more states continue pushing for entrepreneurial growth, Tier 2 cities like Dehradun will play an increasingly vital role in strengthening the national startup landscape.

Hidden Startup Gems in Uttarakhand’s Smaller Towns

Exploring startup hubs often leads us to bustling cities, but Uttarakhand’s smaller towns like Haridwar and Almora have untapped entrepreneurial potential.

These regions, usually known for tourism or agriculture, are quietly fostering startup ecosystems that deserve more attention.

Why Haridwar and Almora?

You might be surprised, but Haridwar’s spiritual significance is just one part of the story. It’s also home to industries and tech hubs that are laying the groundwork for startups.

Almora, on the other hand, with its picturesque landscape, offers unique opportunities for eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and even e-commerce ventures.

In these towns, the local population is filled with skilled artisans, professionals, and small business owners who are gradually embracing the startup culture. What if more platforms could connect these talents to the digital marketplace or investors? Imagine the impact.

Government Support

Fortunately, Uttarakhand’s government is stepping in. They’ve extended initiatives like Startup India to these smaller towns, offering resources and funding.

This means there’s potential for even more growth in unexpected places. Think of the possibilities in sectors like organic farming, renewable energy, or digital education.

A Growing Community

It’s not just about government support, though. You’ll find small but growing communities of entrepreneurs in these areas, ready to exchange ideas and offer support.

Startup incubators and mentorship programs are slowly emerging, creating a startup ecosystem that’s friendly to new businesses.

But what if you’re not from Uttarakhand? Well, these towns are still attractive for outside entrepreneurs. With lower living costs, a quieter lifestyle, and room to grow, they offer advantages that busy metro cities simply don’t.

Don’t Get Overwhelmed

Starting in a less-developed area might feel daunting, but with the right planning, you could be at the forefront of something big.

Plus, these towns are still small enough for you to make a meaningful impact. Keep it simple, stay focused, and watch your startup grow.

Who knows? Haridwar or Almora might just be the next hidden startup gem waiting to shine.

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The Growing Startup Ecosystem of Dehradun

Partnerships:

Incubators in and around Dehradun: