CHHATRAPATI SAMBHAJINAGAR, January 20, 2026 – To commemorate National Startup Week and celebrate National Startup Day—observed annually on January 16th since 2023—the Marathwada Accelerator for Growth and Incubation Council (MAGIC) organized a landmark event today. The gathering proved to be a pivotal moment for the region’s entrepreneurial landscape, bringing together key stakeholders to celebrate the ever-growing startup ecosystem.
The highlight of the event was the official launch of the book authored by Umesh Rathod, (Founder Lean Campus Startups, 3 time TEDx Speaker, Startup Mentor to 4.75 lac students) titled, “Startup Theories, Examples and Activities” and the unveiling of the latest issue of MAGIC Incubator Newsletter “Discover MAGIC”. These resources are designed to provide practical guidance and updates to the region’s budding entrepreneurs.
The author highlighted the role of Incubators in tier 1 and tier 2 cities for providing opportunities to young entrepreneurs who have no option to migrate to other ecosystems. He stressed upon the need to look at support job creators in the academic setting i.e. students and faculties for providing them handholding and mentoring at the right time so they can prosper.
The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including:
- Dr. Anil Sahasrabudhe Ex.Chairman AICTE, Hon. Chief Guest.
- Dr. Vinod M. Mohitkar, Director of Technical Education (DTE).GoM
- Dr. K. V. Kale, Vice Chancellor of DBATU University, Lonere
- Mr. Umesh Rathod, AICTE Indovation Head, Western Region.
- Mr. Munish Sharma, Director General of MIT CSN
- Mr. Ashish Garde, Director of MAGIC.
The session featured a keynote address by Dr. Anil Sahasrabudhe, who shared insights into the future of innovation and the role of academic institutions in fostering entrepreneurship. Mr. Ashish Garde delivered the welcome address and presented a MAGIC PPT, detailing the incubator’s mission and achievements.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including:
- Heads of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
- Industry Leaders.
- CEOs of various Incubators.
- Academic Faculty and Students.
The proceedings concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Nilesh Patil, Director of MIT.
About MAGIC Incubator:
MAGIC is a dedicated sector-agnostic business incubator based in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, focused on mentoring and accelerating the growth of early-stage startups through industry-academic collaboration.
www.umeshrathod.in | www.instagram.com/umesh_rathore | https://www.linkedin.com/in/umeshrathod
