Kerala’s Innovation Ecosystem Strengthened through Research and Technology Development
The state of Kerala is actively bolstering its innovation ecosystem by providing robust support to students engaged in research and technology development. This initiative is primarily facilitated through the creation of dedicated infrastructure and mentorship programs. A notable example of this effort is the establishment of the Trivandrum Engineering Science and Technology (TrEST) Research Park by the Higher Education Department, in collaboration with the College of Engineering, Thiruvananthapuram.
TrEST Research Park: A Hub for Innovation
Modelled after successful research hubs such as those at IIT Madras and leading Western universities, TrEST aims to foster a collaborative environment between academia, industry, and startups. The focus is particularly on emerging and deep technologies. According to Dr. Rajasree MS, CEO of TrEST, the primary objective is to bridge the gap between industry and academic institutions, thereby creating opportunities for researchers to tackle real-world problems and develop intellectual property through deep-tech innovation.
At TrEST, companies work in close proximity with faculty members and students, providing them with hands-on learning experiences that go beyond the conventional curriculum. This interaction helps shift the academic focus from exam-oriented learning to applied research and problem-solving. Engagements, especially in deep technologies, lead to better outcomes for both academia and industry.
Companies and Technologies at TrEST
Currently, eight companies are operating from TrEST Park, each working on high-impact, niche solutions. These include Netrasemi, involved in semiconductor design; Augsenselab, focusing on environmental sensing; and Entuple Technologies, working on electric mobility. Other companies include Trizlab, specializing in robotics and embedded systems; Exodyne, developing electronics and IoT solutions; TIERA, building AI-based industrial tools; Kasperob Robotics, focusing on automation; and Innovation Experience, working on eco-friendly technologies.
Expanding Infrastructure and Opportunities
TrEST is also part of a consortium led by the Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council (KDISC), in association with VSSC, CDAC, and Travancore Titanium. It has been designated as the Special Purpose Entity for the upcoming Electric Vehicle (EV) Park planned over 50 acres next to the Technology University in Thiruvananthapuram. One of the key facilities already available is a drive-train testing lab, which enables startups to test the motors they develop—a resource that is otherwise limited to places like Pune and Delhi.
Dr. Rajasree emphasizes the importance of certification and testing infrastructure for startups, particularly in domains like defence and healthcare. “Kerala’s focus should not just be on funding but also on creating these common facilities to help startups design, test, and commercialise their products,” she adds.
Support for Startups and Students
In the area of semiconductors, TrEST provides access to advanced design tools that help startups create chip designs, which can later be manufactured elsewhere. This effort aligns with India’s broader goal of becoming self-reliant in chip design, opening new opportunities for the state’s engineers and innovators.
Students can engage with TrEST Park through its official website, where they can apply online for internships with affiliated companies. Although opportunities are limited and selection is competitive, TrEST is expanding its presence through satellite centres in colleges. The first centre has been set up at Mar Baselios College of Engineering and Technology in Thiruvananthapuram, with more planned across the state.
“These centres serve as points of contact for student engagement and idea development. Through events and structured mechanisms, promising ideas from students can be identified and supported, with the potential to evolve into startups housed at TrEST Park,” says Dr. Rajasree. The park also hosts hackathons, offering students platforms to solve real-world problems. It is actively collaborating with the Kerala Startup Mission to amplify its impact.
Policy Support and Future Plans
In addition to infrastructure and student engagement, Kerala is also evolving its policy landscape to support innovation. Government policies now allow for greater faculty involvement in startups, encouraging educators to mentor students, collaborate on innovations, and even hold stakes in student-founded companies. Another unique aspect of Kerala’s support system is the state’s willingness to buy products from startups, giving them crucial early market access.
TrEST Park is also working to build a shared lab network across campuses, enabling collaborative research that can attract larger grants. The park is expanding physically as well, with plans to grow alongside the upcoming electric vehicle park campus. The expanded facility is expected to be completed within two to three years.
