‘Intense momentum marks the opening day of Startup20’s third meeting in Goa Over 250 International, National delegates participate on Day One

The Startup20 Engagement Group of the G20 kicked off its third meeting, the Goa Sankalpana, with an atmosphere of unwavering energy and determination today in Goa. The day commenced with the presentation of the eagerly anticipated Policy Communiqué, followed by a series of engaging sessions and addresses, driving the conversation on startup innovation and collaboration.

The morning session commenced with a warm welcome note delivered by Dr. Chintan Vaishnav, esteemed Chair of Startup20.

Addressing the G20 country delegates, Dr. Chintan said Dr. Chintan Vaishnav, Chair of Startup20 Engagement Group, said, “As we gather here today, united in our mission to shape the future of the global startup ecosystem, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude. The Policy Communiqué presented today is a testament to our collective efforts, and an unwavering commitment to an intensely consultative process. Together, we have the power to break barriers, foster inclusivity, and drive responsible innovation. Let us seize this opportunity to create a transformative impact, inspiring generations to come. Our actions today will shape the destiny of startups worldwide.”

Dr. Chintan Vaishnav further emphasized the significance of the Policy Communiqué during his address to the G20 nations. He highlighted that the Communiqué represents the culmination of extensive consultations and collaborative efforts by all stakeholders involved. Dr. Vaishnav urged the G20 nations to actively contribute their expertise, insights, and recommendations to help finalize the Communiqué, ensuring that it becomes a robust framework that drives the growth and success of startups across the globe. He emphasized the importance of collective wisdom and the shared responsibility of shaping policies that will set the benchmark for the future of the global startup ecosystem.

Dr. Vaishnav called upon the G20 nations to join forces, leverage their collective strength, and work together towards realizing the vision outlined in the Policy Communiqué, creating an enabling environment for startups to thrive, innovate, and make a lasting impact on the world economy.

The focus then shifted to the presentation of recommendations by the various Task Forces responsible for shaping the Policy Communiqué. Professor Srivardhini Jha led the Foundation Taskforce, who shared a Startup Definition Framework. Then, Shivakiran M.S presented the Alliance Taskforce recommendations, and shared a template for building Global Network  of Centers. Next, Rajan Anandan unveiled the Finance Taskforce recommendations, and called for 1 Trillion Dollar investment (1% of Global GDP) in startups by 2030. Next, Harjinder Kaur Talwar presented the Inclusion Taskforce recommendations. Finally, Vineet Rai shared the Sustainability Taskforce recommendations, and a framework for intentionality and impact can be built into SDG-focused startups. Dr. Chintan Vaishnav concluded the session by providing a comprehensive synthesis of the presented recommendations.

Closed-door country huddles took place where participants engaged in focused discussions to develop country positions and interventions aligned with the Policy Communiqué. Simultaneously, the India Ecosystem Meeting held a brainstorming session emphasizing the crucial aspect of implementing the Communiqué in the Indian startup landscape.

The afternoon session witnessed a prestigious lineup of leadership addresses. The ceremony commenced with a symbolic lamp lighting ceremony, followed by Dr. Chintan Vaishnav sharing the remarkable journey of Startup20 leading up to the Goa.

The closed-door country huddles and India Ecosystem Meeting continued for further discussions on developing country positions, interventions, and the implementation of the Policy Communiqué.

The evening session, titled “Breaking Barriers: How Startups are Building an Inclusive & Responsible Internet Ecosystem, featured a distinguished panel of industry experts.  This was followed by inspirational talks under Startup20X series by eminent speakers  including Ramanan Ramanathan- Former Mission Director, Atal Innovation Mission , Aysha Sanober -Ammara Exports -Founder/Director, Sairaj Dhond- Wakao Foods- Founder & CEO, Navya Naveli Nanda – Founder, Project Naveli and Dr. Jitendra Sharma- Managing Director -AMTZ.

Around 250+ National and international delegates took part in Startup20 Goa Sankalpana on the first day and around 40+ Startups from around the country showcased their innovative products.