Kolkata, February 20, 2025 – The Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), operating under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has inaugurated a state-of-the-art incubation facility in Salt Lake, Kolkata. This initiative is aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, enhancing innovation, and strengthening IT exports from West Bengal.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Jitin Prasada, Hon’ble Minister of State for Commerce & Industry and Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India. Speaking on the occasion, he emphasised the country’s progress towards becoming a global technology hub and highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering innovation across regions. He stated, “The inauguration of this facility in Kolkata underscores our dedication to nurturing startups, expanding technological accessibility, and ensuring equitable opportunities for researchers, students, and entrepreneurs.”
A Milestone in India’s Tech Growth
STPI has been a significant force in building India’s technology ecosystem by providing top-tier infrastructure and incubation support. With 67 centres nationwide, including 59 in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, the organisation has played a crucial role in ensuring balanced growth beyond metro cities. It has also set up 24 domain-specific Centres of Entrepreneurship (CoEs) focused on emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, FinTech, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These CoEs provide startups with essential industry collaboration and global market access.
World-Class Facilities for Startups
The newly launched STPI incubation facility in Kolkata spans 200,000 square feet and features modern plug-and-play office spaces, including 75,000 square feet dedicated to raw incubation areas. Equipped with high-speed data communication infrastructure, the facility is designed to support IT/ITeS startups and small to medium enterprises (SMEs).
Key offerings of the incubation centre include:
- Infrastructure and Technology Support: Advanced facilities and uninterrupted connectivity for seamless operations.
- Incubation and Mentorship: Startups will receive industry mentorship, market access, and networking opportunities.
- Employment Generation: The initiative is expected to create significant direct and indirect job opportunities in the region.
Arvind Kumar, Director General of STPI, highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “With Kolkata’s intellectual and creative potential, this incubation centre will catalyse fostering innovation and technological advancements. By strengthening AI capabilities and computing infrastructure, we are positioning India as a global leader in the tech sector.”
Driving Digital India and ‘Viksit Bharat’
Since its inception in 1991, STPI has contributed to India’s IT/ITeS sector by providing essential services, incubation facilities, and high-speed communication networks. The launch of this new incubation centre aligns with the Digital India vision and the government’s ‘Viksit Bharat mission, which aims to drive technological advancement, innovation, and inclusive economic growth.
The event witnessed the participation of several key figures from the IT industry, including Manjit Nayak, Director, STPI Kolkata, and representatives from Tata Consultancy Services, Concentrix Daksh Services, and GlobalFoundries Engineering Pvt. Ltd.