Merck launches its Uptune Program in India for collaborating with Startups

Mumbai, India, July 27, 2022 – Merck Specialities Private Limited, announces the launch of its Uptune program in India, the aim of the program is to generate opportunities in collaboration with early-stage innovative companies.

“The startup environment in India is unique and inspiring. Building mutually beneficial and sustainable partnerships with promising startups and creating synergies between Merck and young companies will bring forward the next big ideas.” said Steven Johnston, Vice President, Head of Technology Innovation and Enablement, Merck Group Science and Technology Office. “Merck can be a strong supporter for them to jointly grow their business, providing not only funding, but also knowledge and industry expertise.”

The Uptune Program by Merck is the company’s startup collaboration program. The program aims to support early-stage companies across India that are working on relevant topics within healthcare, life science, electronics, and smart manufacturing, and with a strong focus 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 life science
·Supply chain innovation, data management, simulation and analytics for manufacturing

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