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Odisha Tourism, Travel, And Hospitality Industries Poised For Transformation With New Accelerator Program
Friday, January 17, 2025
On National Startup Day, the Merstra Foundation, in partnership with the AIC Nalanda Institute of Technology Foundation, unveiled the Odisha Tourism Acceleration Program (OTAP), a groundbreaking initiative set to revolutionize Odisha’s tourism, travel, and hospitality industries.
The 16-week accelerator program is tailored to support early-stage startups by fostering innovation and equipping them with expert mentorship, essential resources, and access to industry networks to help them grow and succeed.
“Odisha is a state rich in cultural heritage and tourism potential,” said Ebin Ephrem Elavathingal, Director of Merstra Foundation. “Through OTAP, we are creating a platform for startups to not only showcase their innovative ideas but also implement them in real-world settings, making a tangible impact on the state’s tourism ecosystem.”
Unique Highlights
The Odisha Tourism Acceleration Program (OTAP) redefines the conventional accelerator model by emphasizing the dynamic tourism ecosystem of Odisha. This innovative initiative offers startups an unparalleled chance to immerse themselves in Odisha’s vibrant cultural and natural heritage. What sets OTAP apart is its exclusive access to pilot projects within the state’s flourishing tourism sector, forged through partnerships with government agencies, corporate entities, and industry experts.
With a hybrid structure, the program blends online masterclasses, personalized mentorship, and on-site activities, ensuring widespread accessibility and impactful engagement. This comprehensive framework empowers startups to develop transformative and sustainable solutions tailored for the tourism industry.
Key opportunities include:
One-on-One Mentorship: Receive expert guidance from seasoned professionals in the tourism and business sectors.
Pilot Testing in Real-World Scenarios: Implement and refine ideas within Odisha’s rich tourism ecosystem.
Investor and Corporate Engagement: Build connections with potential investors and strategic partners to unlock funding and collaborative opportunities.
Skill Development: Participate in specialized workshops on branding, growth strategies, financial management, and team building.
OTAP offers an all-encompassing platform designed to equip startups with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need to make a lasting impact in the tourism sector.
“At Merstra Foundation, our mission has always been to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and meaningful change. OTAP is a perfect example of how we bring this vision to life, by providing startups with the mentorship, networks, and resources they need to succeed in a dynamic and high-potential sector like tourism.” — Ebin Ephrem Elavathingal, Director, Merstra Foundation
Important Dates and Milestones
Applications Begin: January 16, 2025
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