JewelStart and startups from its first cohort visited the Bharat Ratnam Mega Common Facility Centre (Mega CFC) at SEEPZ, Mumbai on 29 September, gaining first-hand exposure to jewellery manufacturing processes and the advanced machinery supporting the sector.
The visit was followed by a brainstorming session focused on market outreach, product development and growth opportunities for the participating startups. Discussions also examined potential upgrades to existing machinery and technology to strengthen manufacturing capabilities and respond to evolving market requirements.
The interaction gave the startups an opportunity to better understand industry capabilities, identify areas for technological advancement and explore practical pathways to market access.
Through initiatives such as the Mega CFC engagement, JewelStart is connecting emerging entrepreneurs with manufacturing capabilities, resources and market opportunities to support their growth.
Launched in early 2026, JewelStart is GJEPC’s startup-focused initiative supporting entrepreneurship in the gem and jewellery sector. The recent visit builds on the first JewelStart Industry Innovation Challenge, whose Demo Day held in August 2026 featured seven selected startups to address challenges spanning manufacturing, design, inventory management and productivity. The programme was developed in partnership with SINE, IIT Bombay, which served as its knowledge partner.