IIT Madras Global Launches Bharat Ascend to Back Tier-2 Innovators

29 Aug 2026, 3:56 pm · 14d ago · 1 min read · YourStory

IIT Madras Global Research Foundation has partnered with startup platform Ideabaaz to launch ‘Bharat Ascend’, a national entrepreneurship initiative. The program aims to discover 100 high-potential innovation ideas from Tier II and Tier III cities across India within 365 days. Bharat Ascend will provide specialized mentorship, academic research access, and structured pathways to convert grassroots concepts into prototypes, market-ready products, and investable ventures aligned with the 'Viksit Bharat @2047' vision. Led by IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti, the platform seeks to democratize entrepreneurship opportunities and build globally scalable technology enterprises beyond major metropolitan startup hubs.