The West Bengal government is preparing to introduce a dedicated startup policy soon after unveiling its new Industrial Policy, which is expected to be tabled by August 15, 2026. Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta said the initiative is aimed at encouraging entrepreneurship, supporting innovation and creating more job creators across the state.
The announcement was made during the inauguration of AIC Techno, West Bengal’s first Atal Incubation Centre, established under NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM).
Industrial Policy To Come First
According to the Finance Minister, the state’s priority is to introduce a comprehensive industrial policy before finalising the startup policy.
The industrial policy is expected to include measures to improve the investment climate, support industries and create a stronger foundation for economic growth. Once it is announced, the government will move ahead with a dedicated framework focused exclusively on startups and innovation-driven businesses.
The startup policy is expected to complement the industrial policy by promoting entrepreneurship and supporting new-age businesses.
Encouraging Young Entrepreneurs
Swapan Dasgupta emphasised that West Bengal needs to develop a stronger culture of entrepreneurship.
He observed that many people in the state traditionally prefer secure government jobs, making them less willing to take business risks. According to him, incubation centres can help change this mindset by providing guidance, mentorship and resources that encourage young innovators to build successful businesses.
The government’s objective is to transform young people from job seekers into job creators.
AIC Techno Targets 500 Startups
The newly inaugurated AIC Techno has already received nearly 200 startup applications and aims to incubate more than 500 startups over the next five years.
The centre will provide entrepreneurs with mentorship, business advisory services, investor access, funding support, product validation, legal and intellectual property assistance, industry partnerships and networking opportunities.
It is expected to support startups from the idea stage through product development, market entry and business expansion.
NITI Aayog Stresses Commercial Innovation
Speaking at the event, NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Ashok Lahiri highlighted that innovation should not stop at research and inventions.
He said successful innovation must also become commercially viable and generate sustainable businesses. Referring to West Bengal’s rich industrial heritage, he called for reviving the state’s entrepreneurial culture through stronger collaboration between academia, industry and policymakers.
The incubation centre is expected to serve as a platform for converting innovative ideas into scalable businesses.
Boosting Bengal’s Startup Ecosystem
The proposed startup policy is expected to strengthen West Bengal’s innovation ecosystem by creating a supportive environment for entrepreneurs, investors, educational institutions and industry partners.
With dedicated policy support, incubation infrastructure and government backing, the state aims to attract more startups, encourage technology-driven businesses and generate new employment opportunities.
The initiative reflects West Bengal’s broader effort to position itself as an emerging destination for innovation-led economic growth.
Summary
The West Bengal government will introduce a dedicated startup policy after unveiling its new industrial policy by August 15, 2026. Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta said the initiative aims to promote entrepreneurship and innovation, while AIC Techno, the state’s first Atal Incubation Centre, has already received nearly 200 startup applications and plans to incubate more than 500 startups over the next five years.
