Five of seven startup ideas get funding at SPU pitch session

Vadodara: Five out of seven startup ideas were selected for funding at a pitching session under the SPU-SSIP-Navadhara initiative at Sardar Patel University (SPU), with total assistance of Rs 6 lakh.The proposals covered agriculture, environment and technology, focusing on practical solutions. One project by GSFC University alumni aims to develop biological control agents for natural farming.Students from BJVM pitched ideas such as eco-friendly packaging "Vruksh-Pack", food concept "Eco Bite" and "Vita-Snap", while a team from Alpesh N Patel Post Graduate Institute of Science and Research proposed "SmartRider-Pro".Officials said the funding will help some projects at an early stage, while others will move to the next phase. Non-selected teams were given feedback."Eco Bite" stood out for its edible packaging made from corn starch and natural materials that can be consumed or disposed of in soil to grow into a plant.The initiative is open to Gujarat residents below 35 years and aims to support innovation with real-world potential.