Innovation Must Have Impact

Shift towards technology-based innovations seen over time, says Mariwala of Marico Innovation Foundation

- Ranjani Raghavan & Sneha Shah

Twenty years after its establishment, Harsh Mariwala-led Marico Innovation Foundation—an initiative to identify innovative ideas—has witnessed a significant increase in applicants seeking notice. There were 1,200 applications this year, a substantial rise from 700 in the previous edition and the years before.

Over time, there has been a notable shift toward technology-based innovations. The most significant change has been the influx of applications from deep tech startups in this once-in-two-year programme, said Harsh Mariwala, founder of Marico Innovation Foundation. According to him, based on the applications received this year, artificial intelligence is likely to be an essential game changer in the coming years.

After reviewing the 1,200 applications, the foundation selected seven winners, which it believes will significantly impact Indian business and social sectors.