IIM Lucknow Launches Centre of Excellence in Blockchain Technology, Aims To Create 100 Startups

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow’s Enterprise Incubation Centre (IIML-EIC) has announced the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Blockchain Technology (CoE-BT). The centre aims to create and nurture 100 startups in the blockchain domain over the next five years, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the state of Uttar Pradesh, states the official press release.

“The Centre of Excellence in Blockchain Technology will serve as a unique facility within the state, acting as both a Resource and Technology Development Center, dedicated to advancing the state’s technological capabilities and fostering a thriving ecosystem for blockchain innovation,” the IIM said. The initiative is supported by the Government of Uttar Pradesh under its StartInUP Policy, the IIM said.

Furthermore, IIM Lucknow EIC, in partnership with Microsoft India, will establish three outreach centers across Uttar Pradesh to promote and nurture blockchain-based innovation. The proposed regions for these centres are Gorakhpur, Lucknow, and Greater Noida/Meerut.

The centre will serve as a technology enabler, offering stakeholders access to shared learning experiences, resources, and a dedicated blockchain platform. It will lead the training and onboarding of startups, providing comprehensive support that includes mentorship from over 50 industry and academic experts, industry connections, VC funding, and specialized training programmes for students and aspiring entrepreneurs across various sectors with Blockchain-based applications.

Highlighting the significance of this initiative, Prof Ashish Dubey, Faculty-in-charge. IIML-EIC said, “The collaboration with Microsoft under CoE BT will identify new opportunities for innovations and support new technologies to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving field of blockchain. This collaboration will be an excellent opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative solutions in blockchain that will have a significant impact on technological infrastructure.”