Innovation is the Key

a two-day international entrepreneurship conference held recently at the codissia arena in coimbatore marked a historic moment for tamil nadu — the state's first-ever global-scale event dedicated to entrepreneurship. the aim was simple yet ambitious: to connect the young innovators of tamil nadu with the world, enabling them to turn their ideas into enterprises that transcend borders.intoday's interconnected economy, those with financial means can travel abroad, meet investors, and secure funding. however, countless talented individuals lack such access. this conference bridged that gap, giving aspiring entrepreneurs a rare chance to engage directly with global investors and mentors. representatives from 40 countries participated, and the international response exceeded all our expectations — a sign that tamil nadu's entrepreneurial energy is being recognised globally.change is the essence of progress. two decades ago, the it revolution defined the career aspirations of millions. today, artificial intelligence has redefined that landscape — we are entering a world where two skilled ai professionals can achieve what once required a hundred people. this rapid transformation calls for adaptability, creativity, and above all, innovation.we now stand at a pivotal point where innovation will determine the future. just as america and europe once led this transformation, tamil nadu is ready to take its place in this global journey.our vision is inclusive. we are working to ensure that not only cities like chennai and coimbatore but also smaller towns and villages become part of this innovation ecosystem. we aim to foster at least 100 rural start-ups, balancing high-tech growth with employment opportunities for marginalised communities.through initiatives like this international entrepreneurship conference, the tamil nadu government reaffirms its commitment to empowering the youth, building a culture of innovation, and positioning the state as a vibrant hub for start-ups and sustainable development.innovation, after all, is not just an idea — it is the engine that drives change and shapes the future.--sivaraja ramanathan, ceo, startuptn