AIC-Nalanda and Merstra Foundation launch OTAP, a pioneering accelerator to boost tourism innovation in Odisha
The Odisha Tourism Acceleration Program (OTAP), a flagship 16-week accelerator initiative by AIC Nalanda Institute of Technology Foundation in collaboration with the Merstra Foundation, was officially launched on June 12, 2025 through a virtual ceremony attended by global tourism leaders, startup founders, and key ecosystem stakeholders.
The event commenced with a warm welcome from Ms. Deepshikha Sarkar, Incubation Manager at AIC-Nalanda, and an address by Mr. Durga Prasad Gouda, CEO of AIC-Nalanda, who highlighted the program’s mission to foster scalable, impactful, and sustainable tourism ventures in the region.
“This program in the coming days shall be a significant pathway for global startups to explore the opportunities in Odisha and we believe that O-TAP will enable the tourism based startups to tap the best of the opportunities through collaborative efforts.”
A global perspective on innovation in tourism was shared by keynote speaker Ms. Asta Kristin Sigurjonsdottir, CEO of the Iceland Tourism Cluster, who underscored the relevance of regenerative and ecosystem-based approaches to travel innovation.
““Tourism is not just about destinations — it’s about meaningful connections. When we empower local entrepreneurs and build community-driven ecosystems, we create tourism models that are more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable.””
Eight handpicked startups, including Yana Travel, Slo Mo Experiences, Travelware Technologies, and Deomali Organic Grains, were introduced during the session. These startups will undergo a rigorous hybrid accelerator program designed to equip them with growth strategies, market access, investment readiness, and customised mentorship.
Mr. Pankaj Parwanda, Co-Founder of goSTOPS, delivered a keynote on scaling travel startups in India, offering practical insights into customer-centric brand-building and unit economics.
Mr. Ebin Ephrem Elavathingal, Director of Merstra Foundation, introduced the OTAP program architecture and emphasised the commitment to supporting early-stage founders through tailored interventions rather than one-size-fits-all content. “We aim to build bulletproof strategies by fixing what truly matters — traction, partnerships, and sustainable business growth,” he said.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr. Manoj Kumar Dandapat, Program Associate at AIC-Nalanda.
About OTAP:
OTAP is a 16-week accelerator for early-stage tourism, travel, and hospitality startups across India. The program includes curated masterclasses, sector-specific mentorship, exposure to investors, and access to pilot opportunities with Odisha tourism stakeholders. Demo Day is scheduled for End of Septemberber, 2025, with top investors and tourism industry leaders in attendance.
To learn more or apply for future cohorts, visit:
🔗 https://otap.aicnitf.in