In the high-stakes world of startups, the odds are not in your favour—statistics show that nearly 90% of startups fail globally. Yet, success is rarely accidental for the fortunate few who defy the odds. According to insights from CoFoundersLab, one of the largest global networks for entrepreneurs, the thriving startups consistently exhibit a unique blend of mindset, discipline, and strategy. Successful startups aren’t just lucky—they’re built to win. They move fast, stay lean, and adapt with agility. Their founders are visionaries with the grit, discipline, and network to turn dreams into reality. They embrace the rollercoaster journey of entrepreneurship and never stop pushing forward.

Kashmir is a land of startup opportunities, yet it faces many challenges. Today’s youth are passionate about doing it, but lack resources, perseverance, and patience. They have the right idea, often driven by a blue ocean strategy, based on problem-solving and creating value in the market; however, they don’t find various stakeholders supporting their idea. The right enabling environment is still missing, although various key stakeholders of the region are claiming much. While significant challenges face J&K’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship ecosystem, ample growth and development opportunities exist. Addressing the infrastructure, funding, skills, and regulatory issues, and leveraging educational and Govt resources aligned with technology adaptation can create a robust regional entrepreneurial ecosystem.

A comprehensive innovation and technology policy must be developed and implemented in letter and spirit that provides clear guidelines and support mechanisms to achieve this. The establishment of innovation hubs with modern infrastructure, academic institution collaborations with funding agencies such as DST, BIRAC, MoMSME, and NITI Aayog, as well as industrial collaboration, needs special attention.

The few incubation centres of the valley established in........

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