Bihar Industries Dept and IIT Patna Ink MoU to Launch Rapid Prototyping Lab for Startups

Patna: In a move to strengthen Bihar’s startup ecosystem, the Department of Industries, Government of Bihar, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Foundation for Innovators in Science and Technology – Technology Business Incubator (FIST-TBI), IIT Patna, to establish a state-of-the-art Rapid Prototyping Lab at UMSAS, Patna.

The project, with an investment of Rs 2.51 crore under the Bihar Startup Policy, aims to provide startups, innovators, and entrepreneurs in the state with cutting-edge prototyping facilities. Equipped with advanced manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing, CNC machining, electronics prototyping tools, and software support, the lab is expected to streamline product development cycles and enhance market readiness.

Driving Innovation Through Infrastructure

Speaking at the MoU signing, Bihar’s Minister for Industries, Nitish Mishra, said:“This initiative aligns with our vision to strengthen the startup ecosystem in Bihar by providing world-class infrastructure and support for product innovation. The Rapid Prototyping Lab in collaboration with IIT Patna will be a game-changer for startups in the state.”

IIT Patna’s director, Prof. T.N. Singh, highlighted the institution’s commitment to fostering research-driven entrepreneurship. “We are excited to partner with the Government of Bihar to create a facility that empowers startups with technological resources and mentorship. This lab will serve as a hub for innovation, encouraging young entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into reality,” he said.

Bridging Academia and Industry

Bandana Preyashi, Secretary of the Department of Industries, emphasized that the MoU marks a key milestone under the Bihar Startup Policy, fostering collaboration between academia and industry to accelerate startup growth. The lab is expected to benefit not just incubated startups but also students, researchers, and early-stage entrepreneurs working on innovative product solutions.

“The establishment of this facility underscores the department’s commitment to enhancing Bihar’s industrial infrastructure and promoting technological advancement among local enterprises,” said Nikhil D. Nippanikar, Director (Industries).

Building a Thriving Startup Ecosystem

The Rapid Prototyping Lab is seen as a crucial step towards positioning Bihar as a hub for technology-driven entrepreneurship. By offering world-class facilities and support, the initiative is set to foster innovation-led economic growth and open new avenues for startups in the state.