Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has launched the HPE Digital Catalyst Program, an initiative in partnership with the angel investing platform LetsVenture, to identify, support, co-innovate and go to market with the next generation of digital disruptors in the Indian startup ecosystem. With more than 50,000 startups, India is believed to have the third largest startup ecosystem in the world.
The program will focus on partnering with startups working in the following areas
- Artificial Intelligence: Data integration, mgmt., prep and stream, ML mgmt. and ops, applied AI – NLP, CV, fintech etc.
- DevSecOps: Low/No Code, API mgmt., Container mgmt., automation, serverless etc.
- Cybersecurity: Identity and access mgmt., micro segmentation, network visibility, device discovery, behavior, auto response
- Intelligent Edge: Edge processing, IoT/OT platforms, 5G ecosystem, function specific silicon etc.
As part of this program, HPE will work with a selected cohort of eight enterprise-focused, growth stage startups along three tracks:
a. Technology – to explore technology partnerships through licensing agreements
b. Go-to-market (GTM) – to explore joint solutions and GTM models to address the digitization challenges of enterprise customers
c. Investment – to explore equity investments in longer-horizon technology startups through its Pathfinder program.
Startups participating in the program will receive support from HPE teams including technology mentoring by HPE’s distinguished technologists, market validation and mentoring with HPE’s sales leaders, rapid prototyping support to build joint solutions and solution showcasing opportunities. Disruptive startups aligned to HPE’s strategy will also have the opportunity to pitch to the HPE Pathfinder program for funding.
“COVID-19 has acted as a catalyst in accelerating digital transformation around the world,” said Som Satsangi, managing director, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, India “At HPE, we have always been a believer in the power of partner ecosystems in driving innovation. The HPE Digital Catalyst Program is our effort to connect the path-breaking innovations ushered by India’s vibrant startup ecosystem with the digitization needs of our enterprise customers.” The last date for submission is 18th September 2020.
