Aquaconnect, an aquaculture technology platform, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with StartupTN to support blue economy projects in the state.

 

“Aquaconnect in collaboration with StartupTN, backed by the Tamil Nadu government and Sathyabama University - Technology Business Incubator (Incubation Partner), launched ‘The Fish Tank’, India’s Aquaculture Innovation Challenge, at the Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet on January 7, 2024,” as per economic times.

 

The Fish Tank's mission is to foster innovation in the Indian aquaculture sector by providing a venue for early-stage entrepreneurs and college students to present their ideas to the world.

 

“The program will cover broader aspects of the aquaculture value chain in both pre & post-harvest value chain wherein applicants can propose ideas related to affordable IoT/Software based solutions to monitor water quality, daily feeding, animal health, biotechnological advancements to improve production efficiency, seafood processing, preservation, and value addition amongst others,” said Acquaconnect.

 

According to Sivarajah Ramanathan, mission director and CEO of StartupTN, "StartupTN's Blue Economy Forum is the first of its kind professional network to promote collaborative efforts between government initiatives, academia, and industry players, which will drive transformative growth and make Tamil Nadu a hub for seafood-focused startups." 

 

Rajamanohar Somasundaram, founder and CEO, Aquaconnect, said, “Being the second largest producer globally, India's aquaculture sector holds enormous potential, and it needs wider participation from forward-thinking individuals. I believe FishTank will be a pivotal step in fostering young entrepreneurship and unlocking the doors for incredible talent in Tamil Nadu.”

 

“The top ten candidates will have an opportunity to participate in the incubation program at Sathyabama TBI with access to resources and mentorship support while also gaining access to StartupTN's blue economy network, which encompasses fisheries research and development institutes, academic institutions, and their facilities across the state,” the release said.