Merck’s Uptune programme to collaborate with startups in India

Merck Specialities has launched its Uptune programme in India, that aims to generate opportunities in collaboration with early-stage innovative companies, according to a company statement.

The programme is the company’s startup collaboration and targets to support early-stage companies across India that are working on relevant topics within healthcare, lifescience, electronics and smart manufacturing. It also focusses on solutions for digital health; innovative technologies/materials for semiconductor and display; cellular, molecular- and immuno-assays; cell and gene therapy tools, chemistry and materials for lifescience; supply chain innovation, data management, simulation and analytics for manufacturing, said the statement.

It also added that the nominated companies will receive up to €100,000 in financial assistance, mentoring and coaching from Merck’s experts in research, business development, strategy and finance. To develop proofs-of-concept, the companies can deepen their understanding of business scenarios while catering to their needs and test their solutions on the international stage with Merck’s global presence in 66 countries. This opportunity could lead to a partnership with Merck or instrumental business cases.

The programme will start in mid-November 2022. The application period will run through 4th September, 2022 via the website. The company is looking for up to five startups to participate in their programme.