Mohali, August 20: The Punjab Government has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with Software Technology Parks of India to establish the “Startup Punjab Hub – Neuron 2.0” at STPI Mohali. The project represents a ₹29-crore joint investment designed to advance technology-driven entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, and emerging technology sectors across the region.
Industries and Commerce Minister Aman Arora affirmed the government’s commitment to creating high-tech opportunities for local youth during the signing event at Udyog Bhawan.
“The collaboration with STPI for Neuron 2.0 reflects Punjab Government’s commitment to leveraging emerging technologies for economic growth and job creation,” Industries and Commerce Minister Aman Arora stated. “By adding cybersecurity to our existing domains, we are strengthening the state’s startup ecosystem and preparing our youth for future opportunities.”
Under the agreement, the state government extends ₹12 crore in support while STPI contributes ₹17 crore toward building the facility. Over the next five years, Neuron 2.0 aims to incubate at least 50 new startups and train 2,000 professionals through targeted skilling programs.
The new hub builds on the baseline set by Neuron 1.0, which supported 114 startups, created 2,700 jobs, and generated a combined valuation of ₹2,890 crore. Neuron 2.0 introduces a dedicated cybersecurity lab alongside domains in artificial intelligence, internet of things, data analytics, and audio-visual graphics. STPI will manage the operational aspects and technical facilities, while Startup Punjab facilitates outreach, industrial connections, and student training initiatives.
