Michelin Announces Winners of its AI Challenge in India

Key Highlights:

• Michelin launched its first AI Challenge with DPIIT and Startup India to boost AI innovation in India.
• The award ceremony was held at IIT Delhi, with notable guests from the EU and French Embassy.
• Startups Kogo.ai, Prophecy, and Zangoh.ai won and will receive mentorship and collaboration opportunities.
• Michelin and DPIIT signed an MoU to support ongoing innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Winners will receive up to INR 5 lakh funding, pilot projects, and global contracts.

Michelin, a leading name in tyre technology, has revealed the winners of its first-ever Michelin AI Challenge, aimed at promoting innovation in artificial intelligence (AI). The event, organized in partnership with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and Startup India, encouraged entrepreneurship in India’s AI startup ecosystem. Participants were introduced to global best practices in AI.

Recognizing Innovative Startups

Out of 10 AI startups that presented their ideas, Kogo.ai, Prophecy, and Zangoh.ai were recognized for their innovative solutions. These startups will now collaborate with Michelin on strategic projects and benefit from mentorship opportunities. The startups were evaluated by a panel of Michelin’s AI experts, including data scientists and business leaders.

Award Ceremony at IIT Delhi

The award ceremony took place at IIT Delhi, featuring key figures such as Petros Sourmelis, Minister-Counsellor of the EU Delegation to India and Bhutan; Ms. Marie Khater, Deputy Head of the French Embassy’s Regional Economic Department for India and South Asia; Dr. Ambica Rajagopal, Michelin Group’s Chief Data and AI Officer; and Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director of Michelin India.

Collaboration and Innovation

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Michelin and DPIIT was signed to foster continuous innovation in the startup sector. This partnership aims to create an environment where startups can thrive and contribute to advancements in AI, particularly in manufacturing, safety, and product quality.

Support from Michelin and Global Partners

Dr. Ambica Rajagopal highlighted the AI Challenge’s focus on responsible AI use and how it supports innovative startups in improving manufacturing. Shantanu Deshpande emphasized Michelin’s dedication to India, including its AI headquarters in Pune and ongoing collaboration with the government. Representatives from the EU and French Embassy praised the challenge for fostering innovation and strengthening Indo-French ties in digital technologies.

12-Week Challenge and Future Opportunities

The Michelin AI Challenge, which ran for 12 weeks, saw startups go through multiple phases, including outreach, mentorship, and final presentations. The top 10 startups were awarded paid pilot projects worth up to INR 5 lakh each, along with access to global contracts and incubation support from Michelin.

DPIIT’s Role in Supporting Startups

DPIIT has been working to bridge the gap between industry and startups, providing early-stage support and launching programs to empower startups with innovative and sustainable technologies.

Also Read: Michelin Launches AI Startup Challenge with DPIIT

CMV360 Says

The Michelin AI Challenge showcases the power of collaboration between industry leaders and emerging startups. This initiative is a positive step forward in fostering innovation in India’s AI sector and demonstrates the potential for AI to transform industries like manufacturing. The continued support from Michelin and DPIIT will be crucial in helping these startups succeed globally.