Michelin, a global leader in tyre technology, has announced the winners of its Michelin AI Challenge, the first artificial intelligence (AI) challenge in the sector. Launched in collaboration with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and Startup India, the initiative aimed to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the Indian AI startup ecosystem while introducing participants to global best practices.
The award ceremony, held at IIT Delhi, was attended by several notable guests, including Petros Sourmelis, Minister-Counsellor of the Delegation of the EU to India and Bhutan; Ms. Marie Khater, Deputy Head of the Regional Economic Department for India and South Asia, Embassy of France; Dr. Ambica Rajagopal, Chief Data and AI Officer of Michelin Group; and Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director of Michelin India.
At the event, 10 startups presented their ideas, and Kogo.ai, Prophecy, and Zangoh.ai were recognized for their innovative contributions. These startups will have the opportunity to collaborate on strategic projects and receive mentorship. The startups were evaluated by a team of Michelin AI data scientists, business leaders, product managers, and developers. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between Michelin and DPIIT to encourage continued innovation and entrepreneurship, creating an environment where startups can thrive.
Dr. Ambica Rajagopal, Michelin Group’s Chief Data and AI Officer, highlighted the AI Challenge’s goal to support innovative startups using AI technologies to enhance manufacturing, safety, and product quality while ensuring responsible and ethical AI use. Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director of Michelin India, emphasized Michelin’s commitment to India, reflected in its AI headquarters in Pune and collaboration with the government through the MoU with DPIIT. Petros Sourmelis from the EU Delegation praised the challenge for expanding AI capabilities and fostering innovation, while Ms. Marie Khater from the French Embassy acknowledged Michelin’s role in strengthening Indo-French partnerships in digital technologies.
The Michelin AI Challenge, which spanned 12 weeks, included outreach, applications, shortlisting, and mentorship phases until September 2024. The final event saw the top 10 AI startups present their solutions. The winning teams were awarded paid pilot projects from Michelin, with funding of up to INR 5 lakh each. They will also gain access to global contracts and incubation support from Michelin leadership.
DPIIT has been actively working to support startups in the manufacturing sector by providing early-stage assistance. The department is working on initiatives to bridge the gap between industry and startups, focusing on setting up incubators and programs led by industry leaders to empower startups with innovative technologies and sustainable practices.