An ecosystem of changemakers

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Eco Collab | Bangalore

Eco Collab is a private enterprise for promoting sustainable housing options. Eco Collab attended the Industry Convening held for the Techtonic Cohort and is a potential partner potential to connect entrepreneurs working on similar thematic areas and other not-for-profit agencies.

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TriNano Technologies

TriNano Technologies is an advanced materials startup specializing in nanotechnology-based coatings that improves the efficiency and productivity of Solar panels. Trinano was the winner of UTIF – IIT Bombay E-cell: Eureka! Business Plan Competition.

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Tellus Habitat

A startup from Techtonic Cohort – Tellus Habitat specializes in sustainable and energy-efficient wastewater treatment solutions, redefining sewage management for greater water resilience. Serving both residential and industrial clients, the company provides fully automated systems with one of the lowest operational costs in the sector.

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People’s Science Institute

PSI is a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing socio-economic disenfranchisement by promoting the sustainable and equitable use of resources. Their work encompasses technical and managerial support, development programs; and research on sustainable climate action through community-based participatory approaches. UTIF collaborated with PSI to organize a Data Visualistaion Workshop in Dehradun.

Research Program

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The National Institute of Advanced Studies

NIAS fosters advanced multidisciplinary research integrating science, social sciences, and humanities to drive innovation and policy, promoting a holistic understanding of society, technology, and development. Its mission is to nurture scholars and leaders who respond to contemporary issues society faces, with insight, sensitivity and dedication. UTIF collaborated with NIAS to organize a Data Visualistaion Workshop in Bengaluru.

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Seed Island

Seed Island, a three-acre self-sustaining food forest in Pilathu village, Kerela where Priya Rajnarayanan cultivates seeds using natural farming methods and shares seeds freely with farmers and gardeners, conducts training sessions, and advocates for the preservation of indigenous seeds to promote sustainable agriculture. She was a participant in the Sustainable Farming Workshop organised by UTIF for Dr Jayeeta Sharma’s Research Project for Research Catalyst Grant 2024-25.

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TWEET Foundation

TWEET Foundation (Transgender Welfare Equity and Empowerment Trust) is a trans-led nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering transgender individuals across India, thus offering critical services including crisis support, short-term shelter, healthcare access, legal aid, and skill development programs. TWEET collaborated with UTIF as a knowledge partner on a queer-themed walk hosted by UTIF for U of T’s Summer Abroad Program.

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YUVA

YUVA is a non-profit development organisation committed to enabling vulnerable groups to access their rights, focusing on human rights, child rights, habitat rights, livelihood rights, and youth rights. UTIF partnered with YUVA to host a walk through a resettlement area as a part of the IMUCP 24-25 fieldtrips. UTIF is exploring scope for engaging YUVA as a community partner for IMUCP 2025-2026.

Research Program

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Indian Institute of Remote Sensing 

IIRS is a premier institution under the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Department of Space, GoV, specializing in training, education, and research in remote sensing, geoinformatics, and GPS technologies for natural resource management and disaster mitigation. Representatives from IIRS participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with PSI.

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Indian Institute of Soil & Water Conservation 

ICAR-IISWC is a premier institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research with a focus on developing strategies to combat land degradation through watershed approaches, addressing challenges like ravines, landslides, and water scarcity. Representatives from ICAR-IISWC participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with PSI.

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Watershed Management Directorate

WMD is a specialized agency under the Government of Uttarakhand focused on sustainable development through integrated watershed management and addresses challenges related to soil erosion, water scarcity, and degraded land in the hilly terrain by implementing projects that promote water conservation, afforestation, livelihood generation, and climate resilience. Representatives from WMD participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with PSI.

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IIT-Roorkee

IIT Roorkee is one of India’s top institutions for engineering, science, and technology education. It houses several interdisciplinary research hubs focused on areas such as AI, nanotechnology, sustainable energy, and disaster mitigation. Representatives from IIT-Roorkie participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with PSI

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Chirag Himalayan Rural Action Group

CHIRAG is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, India. It adopts an integrated development approach, focusing on education, health, natural resource management, and livelihoods.Representatives from CHIRAG participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with PSI.

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Himmotthan

Himmotthan Society by Tata Trusts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering sustainable development in the central and western Himalayan regions of India. Operating across Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Ladakh, Himmotthan addresses rural poverty through initiatives in water and sanitation, agriculture, livestock, education, and enterprise development. Representatives from Himmonthan participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with PSI.

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Centre for Ecology Development and Research

CEDAR is a not-for-profit organization which focuses on bridging the gap between scientific research and practical implementation in the Himalayas. Its mission is to foster awareness and understanding of the Himalayan ecosystem through trans-disciplinary knowledge generation and dissemination. Representatives from CEDAR participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with PSI.

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MOD Foundation

MOD Foundation is an interdisciplinary urban action and research institute based in Bengaluru, comprising of architects, designers, researchers, and curators dedicated to engaging with India’s urbanization processes. Their design-driven approach emphasizes exploring. Representatives from MOD participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with NIAS.

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Institute for Social and Economic Change

The Institute for Social and Economic Change is a premier interdisciplinary research institute supported by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) and the Government of Karnataka. ISEC focuses on policy-oriented research across economics, sociology, political science, education, and environmental studies. Representatives from ISEC participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with NIAS.

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Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences

RUAS is a private institution known for its focus on applied learning and interdisciplinary education, including Engineering, Management, Design, Pharmacy, and Dental Sciences. The university emphasizes industry collaboration, innovation, and research. Representatives from RUAS participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with NIAS.

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St. Joseph’s University 

St. Joseph’s University, Bengaluru emphasizes academic excellence, ethical leadership, and social responsibility. The university offers a diverse array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across disciplines such as sciences, humanities, commerce, management, and information technology. Representatives from Sr. Joseph’s University participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with NIAS.

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Indian Institute of Science

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) is an institution for advanced scientific and technological research and education and programs across disciplines like engineering, physics, biology, chemistry, and interdisciplinary studies. It consistently ranks among the top institutions in Asia for science and technology. Representatives from IISc participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with NIAS.

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Nature Conservation Foundation

NCF is a non-profit organization dedicated to science-based and socially responsible conservation of India’s wildlife and natural ecosystems. NCF conducts research and implements conservation strategies across diverse habitats, including the Himalayas, Western Ghats, and coral reefs. NCF also promotes citizen science and environmental education to foster a deeper connection between people and nature. Representatives from NCF participated in the Data Visualisation Workshop organised by UTIF in collaboration with NIAS.

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Jalgaon Municipal Corporation

The Jalgaon City Municipal Corporation (JCMC) is the urban governing body of Jalgaon, Maharashtra. The corporation is responsible for essential civic services, including water supply, road maintenance, waste management, and urban planning. JCMC also oversees the urban infrastructure projects to enhance the city’s livability. In collaboration with JCMC, UTIF with Mahila Housing Trust are working on the Heat Action Plan in Jalgaon.

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Centre for Development Studies and Activities

CDSA is a research and training institute dedicated to promoting sustainable development through interdisciplinary approaches; collaborating with academic institutions, government agencies, and civil society organizations to design innovative solutions for inclusive growth and community empowerment. It focuses on addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges by conducting impactful research, policy analysis, and capacity-building programs. CDSA provided technical inputs to U of T and Ashoka students undertaking the flyover repurposing project under IMUCP 24-25.

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IIIT-B 

IIIT-B is a research university, founded through a public-private partnership between the Government of Karnataka and the IT industry; emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, blending technology with societal impact. UTIF partnered with IIIT-B to host the AI and the City conference in Jan 2025.

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Development Alternatives Initiative 

Development Alternatives is a social enterprise dedicated to sustainable development; focused on creating scalable solutions for people and the planet, DA integrates green technology, social innovation, and entrepreneurship to empower marginalized communities, particularly women and youth. Dev Alt presented at the CRUSH Roundtable in July 2024.

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IIT Jodhpur 

The Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur is a premier public technical university that offers cutting-edge programs in engineering, sciences, humanities, and management and is known for its interdisciplinary research and innovation. · SoC India, UTIF and IIT –J worked on a concept study proposal submitted to the Government of India. IIT-J participated in the CRUSH Roundtable hosted by UTIF in July 2024

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AHERF

Apollo Hospitals Educational and Research Foundation is an autonomous not-for-profIt organization recognized by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India and focuses on basic, applied and clinical medical research. They are one the research partners for the Research Catalyst Grants 2025-26.

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The George Institute for Global Health

The George Institute is a leading independent medical research institute established in India in 2007 with a mission to improve the health of millions of people in India through the generation of high-quality evidence using discovery and implementation research. They are a research partner for the Research Catalyst Grants 2025-26.

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Ashoka University 

Ashoka University is a leading private institution focusing on liberal arts and sciences education with a multidisciplinary curriculum and research across humanities, social sciences and natural sciences in India. They are a implementing partners for the Research Catalyst Grants 2025-26.

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Dasra 

Dasra is a philanthropic organization committed to transforming India with dignity and equity by fostering collaboration across sectors, including corporations, non-profits, and government. Dasra has produced over 500 knowledge resources that inspire action across various stakeholders. They are a implementing partners for the Research Catalyst Grants 2025-26.

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BITS Pilani Hyderabad Campus

BITS Pilani is a leading Indian institution renowned for its research and education in science, engineering, and technology. BITS Pilani demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing AI research through APPCAIR, where the center serves as a hub for cutting-edge AI innovations, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among faculty, researchers, and industry partners. They are implementing partners for the Research Catalyst Grants 2025-26.

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National Law School of India University

National Law School of India University (NLSIU) is a premier law school in India with dedicated centres for research and outreach across several domains including environmental law, commons, social inclusion, and intellectual property rights. They are a implementing partners for the Research Catalyst Grants 2025-26.

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University of Rajasthan

The University of Rajasthan is a public sector state university that facilitates a transparent system of governance by adopting ethical practices and societal engagement for teaching and research across disciplines. They are a research partner for Research Catalyst Grants 2025-26.

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Women’s Collective

The Women’s Collective (TN) is a non-profit network that advocates for drought-resistant farming solutions; seed conservation; food sovereignty; food security; and revival of indigenous foods and agroecological practices

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Thanal Trust

The Thanal Trust is a non-profit leader in biodiversity and food sovereignty actions especially as connected to climate-resilient and sustainability solutions. They are a fieldwork partner with Dr. Jayeeta Sharma’s project supported by the Research Catalyst Grant 2024-2025.

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Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO)

WATCO is Govt. of Odisha owned, not-for-profit company that conducts training programs for engineers and managers working with water management in Odisha. They are a fieldwork partner with Dr. David Meyer’s project supported by the Research Catalyst Grant 2024-2025.

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Xavier Institute of Management (XIM)

XIM is a private university in Bhubaneshwar, and is a fieldwork partner on Dr. David Meyer’s project supported by the Research Catalyst Grant 2024-2025.

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Hyderabad Urban Lab (HUL)

HUL is an interdisciplinary research and action initiative based in Hyderabad and are the Indian implementing partner on Dr. Naomi Adiv’s project supported by the Research Catalyst Grant 2024-2025.

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Charan’s Public School

Charan’s Public School is a co-educational school in Ulsoor, Bangalore, Karnataka, India, and are the Indian implementing partner on Dr. Jim Slotta’s project supported by the Research Catalyst Grant 2024-2025.

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MGM Medical College and Hospital

MGM is a private teaching medical college and is a fieldwork partner with Dr. Andrea Duncan on the Research Catalyst Grant 2024-2025.

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Amar Seva Sangam (ASSA)

ASSA is an organization for empowering people with disabilities via rehabilitation services, rights-focussed approach, and policy change. ASSA is an implementing partner with Dr. Andrea Duncan on the Research Catalyst Grant 2024-2025.

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IIIT-B

UTIF hosted a conference titled “AI and the city” in January 2025 in partnership with IIIT-B

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Mahila Housing Trusts

Mahila Housing SEWA Trust is a grassroots non-governmental organization based in Ahmedabad, to address the housing and infrastructural needs of women in the informal sector. MHT empowers women in low-income urban communities across India to improve their living conditions through initiatives in habitat development, climate resilience, and participatory governance. UTIF is working in partnership with MHT on a heat action plan for Jalgaon district.

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Development Alternatives

UTIF plans to launch its multiyear engagement with DevAlt in Feb 2025. The proposed project aims to strengthen local data capture- and maintenance systems by building capacities of ULBs to record, monitor, and visualize data for key climate variables in a designated district.

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IIT Jodhpur

School of Cities India, UTIF and IIT –J worked on a proof-of-concept study proposal submitted to the Government of India. Further, IIT-J participated in the CRUSH workshop hosted by UTIF in July 2024

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Pune Knowledge Cluster (PKC)

PKC is a private company (not-for-profit) which acts as a catalyst to between industries; academia; government and non-governmental organizations to brainstorm, discuss, identify, and implement projects of importance and of value to the region. PKC was a past IMUCP community partner.

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YUTAK – an LGBTQ+ collective

YUTAK – an LGBTQ+ collective is a Pune-based youth LGBTQ+ organization which focuses on advocacy and health-service delivery for LGBTQ+ communities in Pune since 2021. YUTAK is a subject matter expert of one project under IMUCP 2024-25 project.

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SWaCH

SWaCH is India’s first cooperative of self-employed waste collectors that provides front-end waste management services to the citizens of Pune and is a strong community-owned group with proven track record of addressing urban waste management problems via innovative strategies in Pune. SWaCH is community-partner of two of the IMUCP 2024-25 projects.

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RannNITI

RannNITI is a Pune-based consultancy that works on brand management, political campaigns, and providing integrated media solutions for political, social & government sectors. RannNITI is community-partner of two IMUCP 2024-25 projects

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Center for Development Studies and Activities (CDSA)

CDSA is a subject matter expert on IMUCP, and will provide technical inputs to U of T and Ashoka students undertaking the flyover repurposing project under IMUCP 2024-2025.

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VIT TBI

UTIF partnered with VIT TBI for the Student Venture Program, fostering student entrepreneurs to develop solutions for climate action.

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Angirus

A startup from Techtonic Cohort – Angirus manufactures Wricks, eco-friendly bricks made from plastic and construction waste. Wricks are 30% stronger, absorb 80% less water, and have 20% better thermal properties than conventional bricks.

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K-DISC

Kerala Development and Innovation Strategic Council is a partner for Techtonic program for Startup pilot deployments in Urban Local Bodies.

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Lambert Water

A startup from Techtonic Cohort – Lambert Water’s Water Battery and Membrane Electro Reactor (MER) efficiently treats water and wastewater using electrochemical processes

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Ahmedabad

A startup from Techtonic Cohort – RecycleX creates Eco-Concrete, a cement-free material made from industrial byproducts. Eco-Concrete reduces carbon footprint by 80%, is cost-effective, and performs better than traditional concrete.

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Social Alpha

Collaboration for the Techtonic Challenge, supporting startups with market-ready products tackling urban challenges and climate resilience.

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Panjurli Labs

A startup from Tectonic Cohort – Panjurli Labs develops thin-film air filtration technology that target industrial and vehicular emissions. Their products are designed to mitigate air pollution at its source, improving overall air quality in cities.

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IIT Madras – School of Sustainability

Engagement for the Carbon Zero Challenge, supporting ideas and prototypes aimed at achieving carbon net-zero.

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Solinas

A startup from Techtonic Cohort – Solinas provides advanced solutions for water and sewer management using Endobot, a crawler robot, and SWASTH, an AI-powered dashboard, for pipeline inspections and assessments

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MedCuore

A startup from Tectonic Cohort – Airvue system offers real-time air quality monitoring using IoT and AI, while the Breathe Easier air purifier uses multi-stage filtration, including HEPA and activated carbon, to remove 99.97% of airborne particles, and odors for healthier indoor environments.

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Strawcture

A startup from Techtonic Cohort – Strawcture Eco produces AgriBioPanels, drywall panels made from 96% straw. These carbon-negative panels are used for cladding, ceilings, and flooring, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional building materials.

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Accelero

A startup from Tectonic Cohort – Accelero has developed an Electric Conversion Kit for Carts (eBik Thela). The kit, installed on old or new carts, enables manual and electric operation.

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IIT Bombay E-Cell

UTIF partnered with E-cell for the Eureka! Business Plan Challenge as a Sustainability partner, identifying and supporting innovative solutions in the sustainability space.

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Carbon Craft

A startup from Techtonic Cohort – Carbon Craft develops CO2-cured carbon-negative wall claddings, offering sustainable building solutions by using captured carbon and proprietary processes

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Albatross

A startup from Tectonic Cohort – Albatross has created a desiccant-assisted air conditioning system that reduces energy consumption by 30-50%. The system works with existing HVAC units, using desiccants to absorb moisture.

Entrepreneurship Program