IIT Kanpur partners with Blockchain for Impact to accelerate healthcare innovation

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) and Blockchain For Impact (BFI) have established a strategic partnership aimed at advancing healthcare innovation in India.

Announced on April 16, 2024, The collaboration falls under the BFI-Biome Virtual Network Program and involves a commitment of over $150,000 across three years. The initiative is designed to support healthcare-focused startups at IIT Kanpur's Startup Incubation & Innovation Centre (SIIC).

What does this partnership aim to achieve?

By merging IIT Kanpur’s proven track record in fostering entrepreneurship with BFI’s dedication to advancing biomedical research, the partnership intends to address critical healthcare gaps in India.

The collaboration is set to empower startups and innovators within the ecosystem to create impactful healthcare solutions that are both equitable and accessible to all.

Leadership comments

Prof. Kantesh Balani expressed his enthusiasm about the new venture, stating, "I am very optimistic about the partnership between IIT Kanpur and BFI. This MoU will help us share knowledge, support startups effectively, and improve our capacity-building efforts." 

Dr Gaurav Singh, CEO of BFI, expressed his delight about the partnership, stating, "Meeting the IIT Kanpur incubatees was incredibly inspiring. Their boundless energy and unwavering dedication to healthcare innovation are truly awe-inspiring. IIT Kanpur's exceptional support for these entrepreneurs aligns perfectly with our shared mission of accelerating impactful solutions in biomedical research. Through diverse initiatives in biomedical research and innovation, district full-stack partnerships, and process-driven funding programs, we are actively addressing critical gaps in India's healthcare landscape."

What is Blockchain For Impact (BFI)?

Originating from India's COVID crisis, BFI has evolved from providing emergency relief to adopting a systematic approach to healthcare challenges. The BFI-Biome, a $15 million initiative, unites researchers and innovators to drive biomedical advancements, focusing on projects that can significantly impact healthcare across India and beyond.

BFI's core mission is to improve the well-being of marginalized communities through robust public health initiatives.