Raipur: Chhattisgarh is expanding its startup and entrepreneurship ecosystem with plans to establish Entrepreneurship Development Centres in all 33 districts. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced the initiative while inaugurating the three-day 14th India Industrial Fair-2026 in the state capital.
The state government plans to invest around ₹500 crore under the Mukhyamantri Startup and Nipun Mission for the entrepreneurship centres. It will also develop 100 emerging technology labs and five Industrial Centres of Excellence, creating new infrastructure for innovation, technology and skill development.
The industrial fair has brought together industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, buyers and startup representatives from across the country. More than 300 MSME units are participating and showcasing their products, technologies and business capabilities.
Entrepreneurship Centres Across All 33 Districts
The proposed centres will create local platforms for entrepreneurship development instead of concentrating opportunities in major industrial cities.
Chief Minister Sai said the government aims to create a business-friendly environment and will focus on facilitating industries rather than limiting its role to framing regulations.
The entrepreneurship centres are expected to support the state’s broader efforts to connect young people with employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. The government is also focusing on direct interaction between entrepreneurs, investors and businesses through platforms such as the India Industrial Fair.
100 Tech Labs and Five Centres of Excellence
Alongside entrepreneurship infrastructure, Chhattisgarh is planning a major expansion in technology-based facilities.
The government will develop 100 emerging technology labs and five Industrial Centres of Excellence. These facilities are intended to strengthen access to modern technologies and support innovation and industry-oriented skills.
The focus is also expanding beyond traditional industries. The state is identifying opportunities in sectors such as:
- Artificial Intelligence and IT
- Electronics and green energy
- Textiles and pharmaceuticals
- Emerging technology and innovation
This approach aims to create an ecosystem where startups and MSMEs can access technology, skills and industry networks while exploring new markets.
Nava Raipur to Become a Technology Hub
The state is also working to position Nava Raipur as a major technology and IT hub. Along with technology-focused infrastructure, the government is expanding plug-and-play facilities to help industries begin operations more quickly.
The single-window system is also being strengthened to simplify processes for businesses and investors. These measures are being pursued under the state’s Industrial Policy 2024-30, which focuses on investment, employment and innovation.
For entrepreneurs and businesses, the combination of ready-to-use infrastructure and streamlined processes could reduce the time and procedural hurdles involved in setting up operations.
₹8 Lakh Crore in Investment Proposals
Industry Minister Lakhan Lal Dewangan said Chhattisgarh has received investment proposals worth around ₹8 lakh crore so far.
The government is now focusing on converting these proposals into actual industrial projects and employment opportunities rather than limiting them to investment announcements.
According to the minister, initiatives in the small-scale industries sector have already contributed to employment for around 50,000 people.
The scale of proposed investments also reflects the state government’s effort to expand its industrial base while attracting businesses across emerging and traditional sectors.
Focus on Jobs, Technology and Green Growth
Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao said Chhattisgarh is emerging as an attractive destination for industries due to the policies and initiatives being pursued by the state government.
The latest entrepreneurship and technology plans add another layer to this industrial strategy by focusing on local entrepreneurs, startups and emerging technologies.
With centres planned in every district, the initiative could take entrepreneurship support closer to young people and small businesses across the state. The proposed tech labs and Centres of Excellence are also expected to strengthen the connection between skills, innovation and industry demand.
Chhattisgarh’s latest push therefore combines district-level entrepreneurship infrastructure, technology facilities, investment promotion and industrial reforms as the state seeks to expand employment and create a stronger ecosystem for startups and businesses.
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