Odisha is gearing up for its next phase of growth, driven by entrepreneurship, innovation, and manufacturing. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi made this announcement during the closing ceremony of TiECon Bhubaneswar 2025 – a summit focused on Entrepreneurship and AI.
During his speech, the Chief Minister encouraged investors to collaborate with Odisha, stating, “To every investor, mentor, and entrepreneur present here, we invite you to invest, innovate, and grow with us.”
TiECon Bhubaneswar 2025 is a two-day event taking place from August 9th to 10th, 2025, at the Mayfair Convention Centre in Bhubaneswar. The event has been organised by the Department of Electronics & Information Technology, the Industries Department, OCAC, IPICOL, and Startup Odisha in collaboration with TiE Global. It brings together entrepreneurs, innovators, mentors, investors, industry leaders, and change-makers to celebrate this important occasion.
In his remarks, the Chief Minister emphasised that through progressive policies, world-class infrastructure, and a collaborative mindset, Odisha is creating an environment where global expertise meets local talent to shape the future of a developed Odisha. He noted that Odisha is no longer on the sidelines of India’s growth story; rather, it is at the forefront and emerging as an innovation hub.
He stated, “We are actively positioning Odisha as a preferred destination for Global Capability Centres. Whether in chip design, AI research, blockchain, or financial inclusion, Odisha is ready to lead.” He highlighted that Odisha has become one of the first states in India to launch a dedicated AI Policy and has revamped its Semiconductor Policy. The state will soon unveil new strategies to attract investments in IT, Global Capability Centres, and FinTech.
The Chief Minister also mentioned that the government is equipping youth with future-ready skills in AI, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. He added that efforts are being made to extend this growth beyond Bhubaneswar to other cities like Cuttack, Rourkela, Sambalpur, and Berhampur, which are being developed as the next wave of digital hubs.
The Chief Minister stated that our vision goes beyond just GDP growth; it focuses on creating jobs, empowering youth, and advancing social justice. He assured investors and entrepreneurs, saying, “Once you are here with us, you will definitely feel that Odisha is your second home. You will find a sense of belonging here. Together, we can make Odisha the entrepreneurial capital of Eastern India and truly realise the vision of Purvodaya — the rise of the East.”
The event brought together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, innovators, and thought leaders from across India and abroad to exchange ideas, forge collaborations, and explore opportunities in emerging sectors. It served as a vibrant platform to showcase Odisha’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem while highlighting the state’s unique strengths in industry, technology, and innovation.
Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, the Minister of Electronics, Information Technology, and Health and Family Welfare, emphasised how AI will serve as a catalyst for empowerment in Odisha, improving governance, boosting farm productivity, expanding opportunities for artisans, and ensuring that no citizen is left behind.
The two-day event featured several panel discussions on entrepreneurship, sectoral growth opportunities, and the transformative potential of AI across various industries.
On Day 1 of TiECon Bhubaneswar 2025, the focus was on celebrating entrepreneurship and highlighting Odisha’s potential in manufacturing, mining, tourism, and the blue economy. Sessions showcased women entrepreneurs, success stories from across the state, and growth opportunities in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, fostering collaboration between the government, industry, and startups.
Day 2 was centred around the AI Summit, with discussions on the Odisha AI Policy 2025, India’s AI vision for 2030, and the role of AI in governance, industry, and entrepreneurship. Participants explored AI-driven opportunities, large-scale skill development, and responsible adoption, gaining insights into building an inclusive AI ecosystem in Odisha.
Startups and young entrepreneurs gained valuable insights into scaling their businesses, leveraging technology, and contributing to inclusive growth and innovation in Odisha.
Among those in attendance were Jajpur MP Shri Rabindra Behera, Rajya Sabha MP Sujit Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary of the Industries Department Hemant Sharma, Principal Secretary of the E&IT Department Vishal Dev, senior industry leaders, and key figures from the E&IT ecosystem.
