SHILLONG, April 22: Meghalaya sharpened its focus on entrepreneurship and digital support systems at a state-backed programme marking World Creativity and Innovation Day, with new platforms, funding data and youth-led initiatives taking centre stage.
The event, ‘PRIME IGNITE 2026’, held at Lok Bhavan, brought together entrepreneurs, officials and student innovators, signalling a shift towards expanding market access and structured support for startups across the state.
Three digital platforms were unveiled to address gaps in service delivery and market linkages. These include a centralised service provider system aimed at streamlining enterprise support, an e-commerce platform for artisans with disabilities, and a local delivery application positioned as Upper Shillong’s first organised online service. Officials said the initiatives are expected to improve last-mile connectivity and reduce operational barriers for small businesses.
Data presented at the event highlighted the scale of ongoing interventions. Nearly 2,847 entrepreneurs have been onboarded under the CM ELEVATE programme, with more than 885 entities receiving funding support. Authorities also reported 1,350 startups registered under the PRIME initiative, indicating steady growth in the state’s enterprise ecosystem.
Addressing the gathering, Ampareen Lyngdoh said innovation in the state is being driven by citizens rather than institutions, with the government playing a facilitative role from ideation to market access.
Officials underscored the importance of youth participation, with winners of a statewide student ambassador contest receiving grants and certificates. Teams from the College of Community Science and Jaintia Eastern College secured top positions.
The programme also featured demonstrations from local startups across sectors including healthcare manufacturing, tourism management and technology services, showcasing solutions such as crowd management systems, hygiene product production, and GIS- and IoT-based applications.
A yearly publication documenting progress under the PRIME initiative was released during the event, outlining partnerships and outcomes achieved over the past year.
