Media Release
Udupi, Jul 8: The Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) has launched MSME Idea Hackathon 5.0, themed ‘Smart & Sustainable MSMEs’ aimed at fostering innovation and driving technology adoption, invites innovators of Indian origin aged 18–60 to propose original ideas across priority areas such as low-carbon footprint solutions, cyber-defense, Industry 4.0/5.0 technologies, smart and resilient supply chains, and sustainable development in coastal and hilly regions.
Selected proposals may receive seed funding of up to Rs 15 lac, along with mentorship and incubation.support through registered Host Institutes (HIs) via the My MSME portal, with submissions open until July 14.
Shri Madhwa Vadiraja Institute of Technology & Management (SMVITM), is a certified Host Institute (HI) on the DC-MSME MIS portal. As an HI, SMVITM will manage the submission, initial evaluation through a panel of domain experts, coordination with MSME for further screening, and incubation support for proposals that make the cut
Dr Radhakrishna Aithal, CEO of Sode Educational Trust, highlighted the significance of the initiative “This Hackathon empowers grassroots innovators and accelerates our journey towards Atma Nirbhar Bharat,” underscoring the nexus of local talent and national self-reliance.
Dr Tirumaleshwar Bhat, principal of SMVITM, added “We’re nurturing creativity and entrepreneurship among students and faculty through this platform,” reflecting the institute's commitment to cultivating problem-solving mindsets.
Professor Shivaraj Hublikar, director of Madhwa Incubation for Technology Innovation & Entrepreneurship (Mi-TiE) a unit of Sode Vadiraja Foundation, stated “Our incubation unit will mentor innovators to transform ideas into prototypes and ventures,” indicating structured support for idea commercialization.
Dr Bharath Bhat, co-ordinator, MSME Business Incubator (BI), emphasized the broader impact “This initiative propels sustainable, resilient solutions to address the core challenges of MSMEs,” aligning the hackathon with long-term sectoral goals.
This initiative aligns closely with national priorities such as Atma Nirbhar Bharat, Make in India, and sustainable development goals.
Interested participants can apply via the MSME Innovative Scheme portal, choosing SMVITM or any other registered HI, and submit their proposals by July 14. For further support can reach out to Dr Bharath K Bhat, 9141051362, bharath.mech@sode-edu.in